HUGE VIBES needed!!!

[Saeleofu]

Nevermind

I was going to ask for job vibes...there are a few positions open at Point Definace Zoo which would be pretty much IDEAL at this point, but they're part time and temporary and need filled NOW, and by the time I have enough money to move that far it'll probably be fall.

Maybe in the fall they'll have some positions open.

 

[smkie]

If you have any time at all you can volunteer it really helps you achieve a position when one is open.

 

[Doberluv]

You mean in Tacoma, Wa? That would be so cool! I second what Smkie said. I'd think they'd love some volunteering if you have time that you can spend without making money for a little while. It could definitely turn into a job. Lots of vibes headed your way. Yes, maybe in fall. I bet you can scrimp and save until then and maybe you'll save up enough moolah to move. I could come and see you if I move over that way. I'm trying to get to Gig Harbor, which is not far from Tacoma.

 

[Saeleofu]

Yup, in Tacoma. That or Woodland Park Zoo are my ideal zoos right now

I've volunteered for the zoo here for 4 or 5 years, but haven't had the time in about a year. I'm trying to find a way to volunteer again, since I LOVED it and I need the experience.

 

[Riobravo]

Sorry I did the zoo job hunt years ago so I know how frustrating it can be.

I will tell you, unfortunately, Tacoma and WPZ are VERY hard to get into without a lot of relevant experience. Both zoos tend to hire from within (their seasonal or volunteer or internship crew) and have very extensive interviews.

I know you said you've volunteered for a couple years, but if you don't have full time AZA zoo experience, I'd recommend trying someplace smaller to start with. The field is very competitive and most keepers have to work their way up and into the zoos they want to work at. It's really about who you know and the experience you have.

Check south too. A lot of the zoos in Texas (my old zoo included) have pretty high turnover and hire frequently. Not because they are bad places to work (I loved what I did and where I worked!) but because so many people use them to gain the experience they need to move up and on in the field.

Expect to have to move with this job (I'm sure you already know and accept this). I moved cross country for my job and am now moving out of the field because I can't move again and there is no more advancement opportunity where I was.

I wish you luck with your search and let me know if there is anyway I can help.

 

[Saeleofu]

Oh I totally expect to have to move...that's what's ideal about it Right now I'm looking for ANY zoo, really. I have a lot of ones in Texas open in tabs that are hiring right now, actually. I also found one that has an internship for the fall, with housing and a stipend and possible paid travel expenses. I haven't counted out the zoo science program here in town, yet, but I'd rather move than stay here another 2 years.