Full or Part-time Keeper or Lead Keeper

Position Summary

Animal Educators is seeking a highly motivated, experienced Exotic Animal Keeper and/or Lead Keeper to join our professional animal care team. This position is responsible for the daily husbandry, behavioral observation, environmental maintenance, record keeping, and welfare of a diverse collection of ambassadors and exhibit animals.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Prepare and distribute species-appropriate diets according to established protocols.

Prepare whole-prey diets, including skinning rabbits and/or rats when required.

Feed and water assigned animal collection.

Perform daily cleaning and sanitation of animal enclosures, holding areas, food preparation spaces, and associated work areas.

Maintain exhibits to promote animal welfare and appropriate environmental conditions.

Conduct daily behavioral and physical observations of assigned animals.

Recognize normal versus abnormal behavior and identify early indicators of illness, injury, stress, or aggression.

Communicate observations promptly to supervisory staff.

Administer medications and assist with veterinary procedures as directed.

Safely restrain and handle animals for husbandry, medical care, and educational programming.

Demonstrate the ability to accurately interpret species-specific behavior and body language.

Anticipate and appropriately redirect escalating behaviors before they develop into unsafe situations.

Participate in behavioral management and conditioning programs utilizing established husbandry protocols.

Successfully learn the behavioral management techniques necessary to safely work within an established group of otters (training provided).

Perform minor enclosure repairs and maintenance.

Assist with exhibit landscaping and grounds maintenance as necessary.

Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

Complete accurate daily husbandry records.

Maintain medical, behavioral, feeding, and enrichment documentation as required.

Ensure all records meet institutional standards and applicable permit and regulatory requirements.

Work both independently and collaboratively within a team of approximately 5–10 staff members.

Maintain professional communication with coworkers and supervisors.

Demonstrate flexibility in scheduling and assist other departments when operationally necessary.

Applicants must possess:

Minimum 3–5 years of professional exotic animal training and husbandry experience

Demonstrated knowledge of animal behavior, enrichment, and welfare principles

Ability to prioritize animal welfare in all aspects of husbandry

Excellent observational and organizational skills

Strong verbal communication and teamwork abilities

Ability to work independently following training

Valid driver's license

Successful completion of a criminal background check

Successful completion of a post-offer physical examination verifying the ability to perform essential job functions

This position is physically demanding and requires the ability to:

Frequently lift and carry up to 50 pounds

Perform repetitive bending, kneeling, climbing, pushing, and pulling

Work outdoors year-round in varying environmental conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and uneven terrain

Safely perform physically demanding animal husbandry duties over extended periods

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

Exceptional reliability and attendance

Strong work ethic and personal accountability

Calm, professional decision-making in dynamic situations

Respect for institutional policies and established husbandry protocols

An evidence-based approach to animal management that avoids anthropomorphism and recognizes species-specific behavioral needs

Commitment to continual learning and professional development

Animal Educators is dedicated to providing exceptional lifetime care for the animals entrusted to us while inspiring conservation through education, ambassador animal programs, and meaningful public engagement. Our team is committed to maintaining…