Senior Commissary Keeper

The Senior Commissary Keeper is responsible for Execute and Oversee the preparation, storage, and distribution of food for the animals at Emirates Park Zoo & Resort. This role involves managing the commissary staff, maintaining food safety standards, inventory management, and ensuring the proper nutritional needs of all species are met in accordance with established guidelines. Additionally, the Senior Commissary Keeper will collaborate with veterinarians, animal caretakers, and other departments to ensure the well-being of the animals and the effective operation of the food services.

Duties & Responsibilities:

·         Oversee & Execute the daily operations of the commissary, ensuring that food is prepared, stored, and distributed to animals in a timely and safe manner.

·         Supervise and train a team of commissary staff, providing guidance and support as needed.

·         Manage food preparation in line with the dietary needs of various species, ensuring that special diets are followed precisely.

·         Ensure that all food preparation and storage areas comply with health and safety regulations and are maintained at the highest level of cleanliness.

·         Regularly inspect food storage and handling processes to ensure safety and prevent contamination.

·         Monitor the quantity , quality and condition of all food products, discarding any that are expired or improperly stored after reporting it to the Zoo Veterinarians at the Animal Health Care department.

·         Maintain accurate records of inventory levels, ensuring that food supplies are well-stocked and replenished in a timely manner.

·         Order and procure necessary food supplies, working within budgetary constraints and managing costs effectively.

·         Track and maintain documentation related to animal food and supplies, including purchases, usage, and waste.

·         Work closely with the animal care team (veterinarians, zookeepers, etc.) to assess the dietary requirements of different animals and update feeding plans as needed.

·         Ensure any specific dietary needs (e.g., special foods for sick or aging animals) are met and are reflected in feeding schedules.

·         Manage the commissary team, providing training on food preparation, safety procedures, and animal nutrition.

·         Conduct regular performance evaluations, offering feedback and identifying opportunities for improvement.

·         Assist in hiring and scheduling commissary staff, ensuring adequate coverage and compliance with labor laws.

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·         Maintain detailed records of food purchases, feeding schedules, animal dietary changes, and any other relevant data.

·         Prepare and submit regular reports on food safety, inventory, and budgetary status.

Qualifications/Experience:

·         High school, nutrition or related field is preferred.

·         Previous experience is preferred.

·         Must be able to function as a team member and support zoo’s mission. 

·         Must be dependable and demonstrate flexibility regarding work schedules.

·         Must be willing to work weekends and holidays.

·         English is must, Arabic is preferred.

·         Must be willing to work with different cultures and nationalities.

·         Must be able to perform strenuous work and lift at least 50 pounds repetitively, bending, lifting etc.