Temporary Associate Nutritionist

Looking for a career with a dynamic organization that is committed to protecting wildlife? We are interested in dedicated individuals who are positive, enthusiastic and passionate about wildlife conservation and protecting our planet. Our Toronto Zoo is a mission-based, not-for-profit organization whose mission is connecting people, animals and conservation science to fight extinction.

**Basic Function**: Reporting to and receiving guidance and direction from the Supervisor of Nutrition Science (Staff Nutritionist) and is responsible for supporting nutritional welfare, implementation of nutritional services, programs and research projects in the Zoo’s Nutrition Science Unit. May act as designate for the Staff Nutritionist during their absence. This position is also responsible for assisting and providing support in implementing the Strategic Plan.

**Responsibilities**:
Supports the feed quality control program within Nutrition Science including sampling of feed/diets/and sample submission for chemical analyses and incorporation of data into records.

Formulates species-specific diets using an evidence-based approach while balancing nutritional welfare, behavioral welfare, product availability and costs.

Supports the operations of the browse, carcass, enrichment and training feed programs.

Investigates and proposes the use of alternative feeds and feeding programs.

Ensures the upkeep and development of the nutrition records, including diet sheets, diet labels and analytical data of diets.

Provide nutritional recommendations, clinical nutrition therapies, and recovery action plans for a wide diversity of animal species in conjunction with Veterinary Sciences & Wildlife Care teams.

Routinely organizes and executes body condition assessments and implements weight management programs.

Inspects and provides recommendations regarding food handling and food hygiene best practices within Nutrition Science operations (including fresh food, frozen feeds, browse & hay) as well as Wildlife Care.

Assists in the identification and toxicity/safety assessment of plant species utilized in the browse program.

Initiates and supports the integration of various technologies into diet formulations, diet management and operations of Nutrition Science.

Perform literature searches in preparation for new projects or manuscript/grant submissions.

Prepare manuscripts, abstracts for publication.

Provide lectures for university courses and deliver presentations to interested groups.

Assists in development and execution of nutrition research trials including preparation of trials, feeding, and cleaning of research animals, weighing of animals/diets, collection of samples, collation of data and statistical analysis.

Writes and edits material for internal and external reports, newsletters, articles, blogs and other public communications.

Serves as a team leader providing support, instruction and training to NS staff, grant positions, seasonal staff and research students.

Under the direction of the Supervisor of Nutrition Science works closely with external contacts to develop relationships with local universities, vendors, other zoos and similar organizations.

Supervises Nutrition Science operations in the absence of the absence of Supervisor Nutrition Science (Staff Nutritionist), including interviewing, selecting, training, supervising, and directing, evaluating, scheduling and disciplining assigned staff.

Assist with ensuring compliances with GHS legislation, the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act, and Toronto Zoo Safety Policies; for ensuring all employees work in a safe manner, with the appropriate protective equipment, and that all accidents and hazards in their area or responsibility are investigated and corrective action taken.

Assists and provides support in implementing the approved Strategic Plan.

Assists guests on-site as required and ensures excellent customer service is provide by Zoo staff.

**Qualifications**:
Master of Science degree in animal sciences, wildlife/animal nutrition, biology, zoology or a related field OR equivalent experience in the field of animal nutrition or animal physiology.

Must have five (5) years experience in animal diet formulation, diet preparation and feed quality control techniques.

Ability to independently perform duties of a nutritional service and research unit.

Knowledge of conservation issues and the role of nutritional sciences.

Must possess experience in research, wildlife care/husbandry and ecological issues related to Nutrition Sciences.

Demonstrated experience in public speaking, teaching, and workshop facilitation.

Demonstrated leadership and team working abilities.

Possess above average time management and organization skills with the ability to manage caseload volumes.

Must be able to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing using the English language.

Must be committed to the principles of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.

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