Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest

Hope. Love. Home. Sanctuary

Job Opening: Full-Time Chimpanzee Caregiver

Open: January 2025

Closed: When filled

Start Date: As soon as possible

 

Nature of Position

Provides for the care and management of the chimpanzee and cattle residents at the sanctuary and contributes to CSNW’s education and outreach efforts.

Relationship to Staff and Volunteers

Reports to J.B. Mulcahy, Co-Director. May train new staff on caregiving duties. Trains and oversees Chimp House volunteers of all levels when on duty and coordinates the activities of other staff while in the role of Lead Caregiver.

Position Duties

  • Participates in the Positive Reinforcement Training Program to help the chimpanzees develop cooperative diagnostic and health monitoring behaviors
  • Safely transfers chimpanzees to and from various areas within the facility and unlocks enclosures for regular cleaning and maintenance
  • Prepares food for each chimpanzee by following written diet instructions, serves meals to each chimpanzee, and administers medicines as instructed to promote proper nutrition and health
  • Cleans chimpanzee indoor and outdoor enclosures and conducts pest control activities.
  • Observes and monitors chimpanzees’ general health and behavior and informs veterinarian of any concerns
  • Provides immediate medical care as directed
  • Provides effective supervision and direction to volunteers to further develop and build their skills and experience
  • Responds to violations of safety protocols and reports violations to supervisor
  • Provides regular enrichment opportunities for the chimpanzees and maintains enrichment protocols
  • Prepares and updates chimpanzee records and reports and ensures thorough documentation of daily activities to enhance knowledge of the chimpanzees
  • Trains regularly on chimpanzee escape and emergency response procedures and participates in emergency drills
  • Maintains an annual tuberculosis test and seasonal influenza vaccine schedule and strictly follows all COVID-19 safety policies
  • Commits to continuing education in chimpanzee behavior and husbandry
  • Contributes to Outreach and Education Programs
    • Shares stories, photos, and video of the chimpanzees on the CSNW blog and social media
    • Conducts guided tours for invited guests
  • Assists with caring for the sanctuary’s cattle herd
  • Learns cattle behavior and welfare-centered cattle husbandry techniques
  • Feeds hay and special diets and provides fresh water
  • Provides medications and treatments as needed
  • Assists veterinarian in conducting routine visual health checks
  • Cleans barns and pastures and provides fresh bedding
  • Assists with other projects as assigned

Other Responsibilities

  • Follows CSNW philosophy of care in all interactions with chimpanzees and cattle
  • Establishes and promotes a friendly relationship with the chimpanzees and cattle to ensure their wellbeing
  • Abides by established safety protocols at all times
  • Actively engages in the growth of organizational health and workplace culture through readings, webinars, and group activities
  • Opportunity to assist in managing social media outreach if interest and skills align

Position Schedule

  • Position is full-time (salaried, non-exempt)
  • Weekend shifts, holiday shifts, and evening hours required
  • Overnight stays at the sanctuary may occasionally be required when live-in staff are away

Compensation

  • $52,000-$54,000 annually, salary commensurate with education and experience
  • Medical, dental and vision
  • Short- and long-term disability insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Paid time off policy includes sick, vacation, jury duty, and bereavement time, with state-provided Paid Family and Medical Leave (all payroll contributions covered by CSNW)
  • SIMPLE IRA retirement plan with up to 3% company match

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • 1-2 years’ volunteer or intern experience caring for chimpanzees in a sanctuary, zoo, or related setting
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs. and handle the physical requirements of cleaning enclosures
  • Computer and internet proficiency
  • Ability to communicate professionally and persuasively both in writing and in person
  • The right candidate must work well with others, have a positive attitude, and be fully dedicated to the care of the chimpanzees and cattle

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Education in primate behavior or related field
  • Professional experience in chimpanzee care
  • Experience with positive reinforcement training

To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume to [email protected]. Finalists will be required to submit contact information for at least two professional references with knowledge of the candidate’s work performance.