AMANDA DAWN BENNETT
Troy,USA
Summary
Dedicated student pursuing a Bachelor’s in Wildlife Biology & Conservation, intent on prioritizing animal care and well-being. Currently a custodian at the Saint Louis Zoo, known for my strong work ethic and adaptability, engaging with guests, and my commitment to the zoo’s mission.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Environmental Service Technician
Saint Louis Zoo
Saint Louis, MO
07.2025 - Current
- Deliver exceptional guest service to thousands of visitors daily.
- Educate the public on wildlife, exhibits, and conservation initiatives.
- Maintain pristine cleanliness standards across core facilities and hospitals.
- Enforce strict safety protocols and proper PPE compliance daily.
- Collaborate with internal departments to streamline daily zoo operations.
- Execute setup and teardown for high-profile special events.
- Adapt dynamically to shifting operational priorities in fast-paced environments.
- Entrusted to coach and train new employees within first five months of employment.
Animal Caretaker
Bennett Farms
Highland, IL
03.2023 - 02.2025
- Managed daily feeding, health monitoring, and specialized care for diverse livestock, including equines, small ruminants, swine, and poultry.
- Administered prescribed medications and executed tailored healthcare protocols for mules, goats, pigs, and various bird species.
- Constructed and repaired secure, species-specific indoor and outdoor enclosures for livestock and poultry.
- Designed and introduced targeted behavioral enrichment activities to optimize the mental and physical well-being of farm animals.
- Enforced strict sanitation and biosecurity standards across all animal habitats to prevent cross-contamination and disease.
Education
Bachelor's - Wildlife Biology And Conservation
Husson University
Bangor, ME06.2028
Associate's Degree - Liberal Studies
Des Moines Area Community College
05.2005
Skills
- Animal Care & Husbandry: Managed specialized feeding schedules and daily routines for livestock with strict attention to diets
- Observation & Medical Administration: Administered medication and followed care plans for agricultural animals Monitored animals behavioral or physical indicators of illness
- Habitat Cleaning: Maintained sterile conditions and strict biosecurity protocols across sensitive environments, including Zoo Hospital and near animal enclosures
- Enrichment & Welfare: Designed species-appropriate enclosures and enrichment activities to stimulate natural behaviors to enhance animal wellbeing
- Chemical Safety: Applied knowledge of chemical safety, OSHA regulations, and proper PPE usage to ensure human and animal safety
Timeline
Environmental Service Technician
Saint Louis Zoo
07.2025 - Current
Animal Caretaker
Bennett Farms
03.2023 - 02.2025
Bachelor's - Wildlife Biology And Conservation
Husson University
Associate's Degree - Liberal Studies
Des Moines Area Community College
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
- 2026 DEAI Mentorship Program - Partnered with an experienced mentor to formulate a career progression plan tailored to my animal care ambitions.
- Career Advancement Workshop - Zoo-sponsored course to build professional skills and growth.
- Keeper Shadowing - Secured an upcoming opportunity to shadow a Keeper at the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park, to gain operational insight into husbandry, safety protocols, and daily animal care management.
Paw on the Back Recipient
Awarded for excellence in Environmental Services