Carnivore and Pinniped Animal Keeper

The Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, Iowa is a non‑profit organization and home to more than 2,800 animals representing nearly 240 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish, and is fully accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Its mission is to inspire an appreciation of the natural world through conservation, education, research and recreation.

It’s an exciting time to work at the Blank Park Zoo as many new projects are in the works. This position is under the direct supervision of the Carnivore and Pinniped Supervisor and is responsible for performing a variety of tasks related to animal care of the following species:
Amur Tiger, African Lion, Snow Leopard, California Sea Lion, Pacific Harbor Seal, White Handed Gibbon, Black and White Ruffed Lemur, Magellanic Penguin, North American River Otter. Qualified candidates should have a wide‑ranging animal husbandry background with an emphasis on training and enrichment. Previous experience working with dangerous animals is preferred. The selected candidate will be expected to learn and work all routines in the department.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

• Provides for husbandry needs of all animals in care by participating in daily cleaning, diet preparation, feeding, training, enrichment, and daily observations.
• Responsible for daily observation of animal health and welfare. Reports abnormal behavior and problems to area supervisor. Maintains accurate records of animal collection daily.
• Cooperates and assists with veterinary treatments and instructions, which may include safely working free‑contact situations.
• Participates in membership programs including tours, presentations, and lectures.
• Adheres to established animal handling, neonate, and related safety protocols. Participates in established animal escape drills and procedures. Under supervision captures, restrains, and transports animals.
• Participates in both free and protected contact animal training for husbandry and medical needs using operant conditioning.
• Performs minor repairs and improvements of exhibits under supervision.
• Identifies and communicates maintenance repairs needed for the safety of animals, visitors, and staff as well as overall upkeep of the facilities.
• Resourceful – Understanding of or can research all applicable topics as they relate to modern zoological management, operations of an attraction and customer service.
• Flexible – Ability to handle a flexible workload with a variety of assignments while also maintain composure in an environment that can be stressful.
• Independent – Must be able to operate independently, exercise initiative and demonstrate capacity for detail and follow‑up.
• Positive – Must be a positive, effective team member and be able to establish professional working relationships.
• Communicator – Communicates clearly, both verbal and written. Effective listening skills.
• Critical Thinker – Ability to make decisions while under pressure or solve complex problems that arise daily.
• Innovative – Ability to propose solutions to areas of concern as related to animal care.
• Efficient – Ability to complete task in a thorough but quick manner.
• Customer‑oriented – Always exercises professional customer service skills. Interacts with many different types of people and situations.
• Team Player – Collaborates with area supervisor and team to achieve common husbandry goals.
• May supervise seasonal staff, interns and volunteers.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duty, responsibility and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Blank Park Zoo is an equal opportunity employer and gives employment and promotional consideration without regard to race, color, sex, religion, age, disability, disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam era, and any other protected class as required by local, state, or federal law. We seek applicants for employment who are dedicated, hardworking and seek fulfilling employment. In return, Blank Park Zoo offers competitive income, benefits, and an excellent working environment.

2+ Years

Please apply directly on our website at

Blank Park Zoo
7401 SW 9th
Des Moines, IA 50315
Phone: