Employment at the Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary
Wildlife Sanctuary Supervisor
Location: Orr, MNPosition Type: Temporary/Seasonal
Overview:
The American Bear Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting coexistence with wildlife through education, observation and experience. Formed in 1995, it runs and operates the Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary near Orr, Minnesota. Over 21,000 people come to view wild black bears in their natural habitat from our elevated viewing deck, and to learn about bear behavior, their life cycles and habitat needs. The ABA seeks to dispel the myths surrounding black bears by educating people on the need for peaceful co-existence with wildlife and knowledge of bear safety issues. We also have a variety of other wildlife visiting the Sanctuary throughout the year. The Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary is open to visitors from Memorial Day to Labor Day. www.americanbear.org
Primary Responsibilities:
Managing and scheduling all ages of volunteers from around the world and college interns. Assisting as needed with special events. Scheduling and attending to private photographers with a pleasant professional attitude. Oversee daily sanctuary duties and construction projects. Organize and assist with nightly sanctuary operations when we are open to the public. Treat visitors in an outgoing and friendly manner. Regulate and implement strict safety procedures in regards to sanctuary volunteer duties while working with black bears. Monitor the safety of visitors. Must posses the natural ability to create a harmonious work environment in regards to the drama surrounding college interns and volunteers living and working in close quarters in a remote setting. Make sure our benefactors are well attended to and taken care of. Supervise volunteers on recreational outings and evening activities.
Qualifications:
Minimum 21 years of age
Possess High School diploma/GED, Bachelors degree or equivalent work experience.
At least 2 years experience in a managerial position
Experience teaching, supervising or leading college age persons of a different cultural background.
Excellent organizational, written and verbal communication skills
Superior management skills
Ability to work with a wide range of difficult challenging people
Creativity and high energy, has a take charge attitude.
Computer competency
Must be able to tolerate a wide range of weather and biting insects
Ability to work with staff, volunteers and interns.
Excellent work ethic
Ability to adapt and not be intimidated by change, easy going
Ability to quickly problem solve and take direction well.
Excellent oral/written/customer service skills
Outgoing and independent personality.
Knowledge of construction and carpentry
Ability to use power tools.
Ability to operate a forklift and drive a bus
Knowledge of basic vehicle maintenance
Ability to work and live in a remote setting with limited amenities
Have a passion for wildlife and conservation and a love of the outdoors
Current First Aid/CPR certifications or ability to obtain
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
Valid driver’s license
Agree to a criminal background check prior to employment
Salary Position:
Over 40 hour work week. Must be able to work a flexible work schedule, working weekends, evenings, and holidays. Salary is equivalent of entry level position based on experience. Possible room and board provided.
To Apply:
Please email a cover letter, resume, and names/telephone numbers of three references to:
American Bear Association
jobs@americanbear.org
Acceptable files are pdf, jpg, doc. Please do not zip files.
APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED until the position is filled.
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