PURPOSE OF THE CLASSIFICATION:   

Performs responsible horticultural and technical work assisting in the functions of the Georgia Pacific Butterfly Pavilion (the Papilion in Honor Heights Park) within the Muskogee Parks and Recreation Department and performs related work as required.

ESSENTIAL TASKS:

• Provides and participates in the day-to-day management and maintenance of the Georgia Pacific Butterfly Papilion.
• Makes technical decisions involving the optimal conditions of the facility as involves the daily care of healthy and vibrant horticultural and zoological/entomology exhibits within the physical facility.

·Plans, designs, and implements the planting, cultivation and refurbishment of ornamental flowers, plants and shrubs within an enclosed environment as well as surrounding beds and adjoining park areas.

• Participates in or directs the procurement, care, feeding, husbandry, conservation, confinement, propagation and transport of entomology exhibits including rare butterflies and moths on display for the public.
• Observes animals for behavioral, health and stress symptoms and prepares them for display.
• Provides high quality educational experiences for visitors by giving tours, answering questions, and demonstrating and explaining animal transport, husbandry, handling and care techniques.
• Submits requests for equipment, plants, animal specimens, food, fertilizer and other materials needed for the care of exhibits and maintenance and operation of the facility.
• Cleans and sanitizes papilion exhibit areas for visitor and animal safety considerations.
• Recommends improvements in ornamental plant and entomology exhibits.
• Coordinates with the Papilion Manager and organizes and/or assists with supervision, training, evaluation and instruction of volunteers in the care and management of exhibits as well as related special projects and educational endeavors concerning the physical facility, horticultural and zoological specimens.

• Performs other work as necessary and/or as assigned.

• Must report to work on a regular and timely basis.

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed.  The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position. 

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS:

The Horticultural/Zoological Technician reports directly to the Papilion Operations Manager.

This position does not have any direct reports or lead/supervisory responsibilities except as involves volunteers or temporary help. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

Training and Experience:  High School Diploma or equivalent with preference given for college hours or a degree in related scientific field of study, and with at least four (4) years of experience in horticulture, botany, zoology or closely related field of work; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. 

Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills: Good knowledge of the materials, practices and techniques of the horticulture field; good knowledge of plant materials hardy in this area; good knowledge of soils and fertilizers and of the methods of raising and caring for flowers and other decorative plants in greenhouses and outdoor beds; good knowledge of the basic care and diet requirements for invertebrate specimens and safety and animal health precautions involved with the work performed.  Ability to perform work involving the planning, implementation and care of a variety of horticultural and zoological exhibits within a protected and enclosed Butterfly Papilion environment; ability to establish and maintain effective visitor and working relationships with volunteers, employees and the general public.

Physical Requirements:  The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job in compliance with the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements.  On a case-by-case basis, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  Physical requirements include occasional walking and standing; frequent lifting up to 10 pounds and carrying of objects weighing up to 5 pounds; occasional lifting up to 60 pounds and carrying up to 20 pounds; frequent reaching, handling and twisting; occasional balancing, stooping, kneeling, crawling and climbing; vision, speech and hearing sufficient to perform essential tasks.  Punctuality and reasonable attendance is essential.     Must submit to drug screening and fitness to work physical exam.

Licenses and Certificates:  Possession of a valid Oklahoma Class D driver’s license is required.   Must maintain appropriate USDA permits and certifications for facility and personal certification requirements as required or directed.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:    Work in this classification is both indoors and outdoors.  Will travel to other City locations as required.  Exposure to wet, hot, cold and/or humid conditions.  Requires ability to flex schedule seasonally and for special events, including working weekends and holidays as required.