Noel Rodriguez
Summary
A highly observational learner who is focused, passionate, and determined to carry out tasks in a positive, energetic, and professional manner. I am adaptable and can perform in high-stress environments and unplanned situations. I have a high level of comfort speaking with crowds of people of all ages and backgrounds and am never afraid to interact one-on-one with strong interpersonal skills. Working with a variety of animals and children has allowed me to become unafraid to get my hands dirty, make mistakes, and correct them with a high level of accountability, emerge as a leader, and contribute as a team member.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Seasonal Zookeeper
Phillip's Park Zoo
Aurora, IL
04.2024 - Current
- Improved animal welfare by implementing enrichment programs and providing specialized diets for various species.
- Enhanced visitor experience by conducting informative guided tours, explaining animal behaviors and habitats.
- Maintained safe and clean exhibit areas for animals and visitors through regular upkeep and sanitation procedures.
- Assisted in successful breeding programs by closely monitoring animal behavior, health, and interactions.
- Developed strong bonds with individual animals through positive reinforcement training techniques, promoting trust and cooperation.
- Ensured compliance with all regulations governing the ethical treatment of animals under zoo care standards.
- Provided exceptional customer service while addressing visitor concerns or answering questions related to zoo operations or specific animals on display.
- Promoted a positive work environment by effectively communicating with team members, participating in staff meetings, and working collaboratively to achieve department goals.
Natural Areas Instructor
Lyman Woods
Downers Grove, IL
04.2021 - 05.2024
- Hosting and leading animal encounter programs with a variety of species including snakes, lizards, turtles, tortoises, toads, frogs, and insects to inspire and educate children ages 2-12 years
- Educating children and parents about wildlife
- Organizing, setting up, and cleaning up after organized educational programs
- Partaking in nature hikes, animal care, plant and native wildlife education, setting up bonfires, and demonstrating good customer service and people skills while having a personable, positive attitude
- Staying on top of child and guest safety, which includes knowing how to use tools in your first aid kit, how to treat allergic reactions, how to treat outdoor hazards like poison ivy, animal stings/bites, and how to perform CPR.
- Improved participant comprehension by incorporating diverse teaching methods and materials.
School Age Teacher
KinderCare/Knowledge Beginnings
Naperville, IL
05.2021 - 04.2024
- In charge of educating, caring for, and building a relationship with children ages 5-12 years
- Spend 9 hours a day with 20 children and in doing so, allowed me to encourage healthy and collaborative learning
- During the school year, fed around 15 children breakfast before taking them to school via daycare bus and picked up 20 for after-school care for afternoon snack, curriculum-related activities, and homework help.
Cashier/Clinic Assistant
PetIQ
Naperville, IL
08.2020 - 04.2021
- Administer and ring up preventive pharmaceutical products for dogs and cats
- Finalizing invoice for pets who have had services
- Pulling and preparing services including vaccinations, microchips, physical check-ups, vaccination certifications, and blood draws
- Assisting a licensed Doctor of Veterinary Medicine with tasks such as restraining animals and drawing blood.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Human-Animal Studies -
Aurora University
Aurora, IL05.2024
Associate of Science -
Joliet Junior College
Joliet, IL05.2022
Skills
- Animal Care Expertise
- Exhibit Design
- Conservation awareness
- Behavior Observation
- Animal Enrichment
- Zoo Safety Protocols
- Habitat Maintenance
- Veterinary Knowledge
- Animal Nutrition
- Animal Training
- Public Education & Public Speaking
- Wildlife Rehabilitation
- Dependable and Responsible
Timeline
Seasonal Zookeeper
Phillip's Park Zoo
04.2024 - Current
School Age Teacher
KinderCare/Knowledge Beginnings
05.2021 - 04.2024
Natural Areas Instructor
Lyman Woods
04.2021 - 05.2024
Cashier/Clinic Assistant
PetIQ
08.2020 - 04.2021
Bachelor of Science in Human-Animal Studies -
Aurora University
Associate of Science -
Joliet Junior College