Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Maryann Weiss

Godfrey,Ill.

Summary

Experienced instructor skilled in creating engaging and relevant learning experiences for individuals of all ages. Adapts teaching methods and materials to diverse needs, abilities, and interests. Strong problem-solving skills, willingness to learn, and excellent communication abilities. Committed to team success, achieving positive outcomes, and pursuing new challenges with dedication and enthusiasm.

Overview

36
36
years of professional experience

Work History

Proprietor

Merry Meadows Farm
01.2017 - Current
  • House and care for a variety of domestic animals which include goats, sheep, chickens and waterfowl.
  • Maintain all health records in regards to breeding, and required health exams.
  • Maintain enclosures to USDA standards and certification.
  • Maintenance of farm equipment.
  • Provide unique farm visitor experience based on the needs of the individual.
  • Managed daily operations and oversaw financial planning and budgeting for farm activities.


Wildlife Biologist/Rehabilitation Specialist

Treehouse Wildlife Center
01.2017 - 01.2020
  • Evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation of injured and/or orphaned native wildlife.
  • Maintenance of all records involved in the admittance of patients including physical examination forms, treatment forms and disposition records,
  • Maintenance of all enclosures to ensure safety of animals and staff.
  • Analyzed ecological data to develop management strategies for conservation efforts.
  • Mentored rehabilitation interns, enhancing team knowledge and skills in wildlife rehabilitation methods.
  • Presented findings at conferences, promoting awareness of conservation challenges.
  • Established partnerships with governmental and non-profit organizations to advance wildlife rehabilitation goals.
  • Presented talks to public and school groups to encourage interest in STEM topics.
  • Educated stakeholders about wildlife issues, fostering a greater appreciation for biodiversity and ecosystem services.
  • Facilitated partnerships between government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private landowners to advance conservation goals.
  • Managed budgets effectively, ensuring adequate resources were available for critical conservation projects without overspending.
  • Promoted public awareness of wildlife issues through engaging presentations at community events and conferences.

Greenhouse Specialist

Sugar Creek Gardens
01.2011 - 01.2017
  • Assisted clients with appropriate plant selections and provided answers to questions in regards to the care and growth of all the available plants in the nursery.
  • Experience in the propagation of plants via cuttings, seeding & root stock.
  • Developed and provided programs for the general public and community groups which focused on garden design, urban landscaping, and pollinator friendly adaptations.
  • Worked with groups involved in native plant garden designs, propagation and public awareness.
  • Managed greenhouse operations, optimizing environmental controls for plant health and growth.
  • Oversaw pest management programs, ensuring compliance with integrated pest management protocols.
  • Provided expert advice on plant care, enhancing customer knowledge and gardening success.
  • Cultivated diverse plant varieties, ensuring optimal growth and health for customer satisfaction.
  • Assisted in inventory management, organizing stock to streamline operations and improve accessibility.
  • Developed training materials for new associates, promoting consistency in service delivery and product knowledge.
  • Implemented seasonal merchandising strategies, increasing visual appeal and driving sales initiatives.
  • Mentored junior staff on horticultural techniques, fostering a knowledgeable and skilled team environment.
  • Evaluated soil conditions and recommended amendments, improving plant health and customer outcomes.
  • Collaborated with management to enhance store layout, optimizing customer flow and engagement strategies.
  • Worked outdoors in weather conditions to care for plants and serve customers.

Wildlife Rehabilitation Manager

Wildlife Rescue Center
10.2008 - 01.2011
  • Company Overview: (licensed through the Missouri Dept. of Conservation)
  • Supervision of Rehabilitation Staff and volunteers.
  • Assist in the recruitment of new and current volunteers.
  • Development and administration of volunteer training courses given throughout the year.
  • Annual reporting of statistics to the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) for yearly renewable permits.
  • Development and administration of volunteer training courses given throughout the year.
  • Assist Executive Director in the writing of grants directed towards corporations to directly benefit the continued care of wildlife rehabilitated on and off site.
  • Led rehabilitation programs for injured wildlife, ensuring optimal recovery and reintegration into natural habitats.
  • Oversaw daily operations of veterinary care, maintaining high standards of animal welfare and treatment protocols.
  • Developed training materials for staff on best practices in wildlife rehabilitation and emergency response procedures.
  • Implemented strategic initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and improve animal care processes within the center.
  • Mentored junior staff, fostering professional development through hands-on training and knowledge sharing sessions.
  • Executed and complied with policies regarding patient admission, care and records to maintain standards of excellence for patients and families.
  • Evaluated and screened patients to determine needs and provide necessary support.
  • Assessed facility and equipment for repair and replacement needs to maintain quality of therapeutic care.
  • Mentored junior staff members to improve their clinical skills and professional development, fostering a supportive work environment.

Zoological Manager-Carnivores

Saint Louis Zoological Garden
08.1989 - 01.2003
  • Supervision of employees responsible for the care and feeding of all animals in the division.
  • Maintenance of all records regarding care of animals and their facilities.
  • Collaborated with other divisions to ensure proper nutrition, enrichment and veterinary care is provided to all animals.
  • Accountable for all decisions regarding daily procedures of employees and the general maintenance of areas.
  • Ability to problem solve any issues brought to my attention from the animal care staff, the animals and/or their enclosures.
  • Delivered regular programs to the public, community and private groups that focused primarily on conservation, animal diversity and habitat.
  • Directed daily operations to ensure optimal animal care and visitor engagement.
  • Implemented training programs for staff on safety protocols and best practices in animal handling.
  • Developed strategic initiatives to improve exhibit designs and visitor experiences.
  • Led performance evaluations and provided mentorship to team members, promoting professional growth.
  • Managed and motivated employees to be productive and engaged in work.
  • Maintained professional, organized, and safe environment for employees and patrons.
  • Resolved staff member conflicts, actively listening to concerns and finding appropriate middle ground.
  • Cross-trained existing employees to maximize team agility and performance.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Zoology

Southern Illinois University
01.1988

Skills

  • Horticulture
  • Landscaping basics
  • Garden education
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Attention to detail
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Public speaking
  • Lesson planning
  • Group and individual instruction

Timeline

Proprietor

Merry Meadows Farm
01.2017 - Current

Wildlife Biologist/Rehabilitation Specialist

Treehouse Wildlife Center
01.2017 - 01.2020

Greenhouse Specialist

Sugar Creek Gardens
01.2011 - 01.2017

Wildlife Rehabilitation Manager

Wildlife Rescue Center
10.2008 - 01.2011

Zoological Manager-Carnivores

Saint Louis Zoological Garden
08.1989 - 01.2003

Bachelor of Science - Zoology

Southern Illinois University
Maryann Weiss