Keeper III

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Reports To: Curator of Mammals and Birds

Compensation:$22 per hour

Position Summary:

We are currently seeking candidates with a background in avian and/or mammal care to join the Mammal and Bird (Endotherm) team at the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium. This position encompasses all aspects of animal care, exhibit maintenance, and off-exhibit management areas under the direction of the Curator and Assistant Curator of Mammals and Birds. As a Keeper III, you will be part of mammal, reptile, and bird training programs, which will consist of behavioral demonstrations presented to the public on a scheduled basis.

Additional responsibilities for this position include enrichment, accurate record keeping, and behavioral observations. As well as training and mentoring level I and II Keepers.

Why Utah?

Utah is home to five national parks, world-class skiing and snowboarding, hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails, and stunning deserts, mountains, and lakes, all within easy driving distance. Outdoor adventure is part of everyday life. The Salt Lake Valley consistently ranks high for safety, clean communities, short commute times, and family-friendly amenities. Draper offers a balance of suburban comfort and urban access, with downtown Salt Lake City just 15 minutes away.

Enjoy all four seasons without extremes—sunny summers, colorful falls, snowy winters, and mild springs—perfect for both outdoor recreation and city living. Utah’s communities are known for being engaged, supportive, and service-oriented, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home.

About Loveland Living Planet Aquarium:

Loveland Living Planet Aquarium (LLPA) is a mission-driven institution dedicated to inspiring people to explore, discover, and learn about Earth’s diverse ecosystems. Founded in 1997, the Aquarium provides impactful educational experiences for guests of all ages and backgrounds.

Since opening its Draper, Utah facility in 2014, LLPA has welcomed more than 10 million visitors and delivered over 650,000 educational experiences to students. Home to over 4,000 animals representing 650 species, the Aquarium features immersive habitats from around the world—including coral reefs, kelp forests, the deep ocean, Antarctic waters, tropical rainforests, Asian cloud forests, and Utah’s freshwater ecosystems.

Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) since 2019, LLPA is in an exciting phase of growth. With the Sam and Aline Skaggs Science Learning Center currently under construction, the Aquarium will soon become the largest in the Mountain West and the fifth largest aquarium in the continental United States, offering expanded opportunities for education, research, and professional impact.

Qualifications:

• Associate or bachelor's degree in Zoology, Biology or related field and at least 4 years of animal care experience (zoo/aquarium experience preferred). In lieu of a degree, a minimum of 5 years paid animal care experience is required.
• Must have good written and oral communication skills.
• Advanced knowledge of mammal and bird characteristics, habits, and contemporary husbandry techniques.
• Must have a working knowledge of the practical application of operant conditioning in a zoological setting. (operant conditioning experience with Felidae preferred)
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, which may include weekends, evenings, and holidays.
• Maintains a good rapport with team members and supervisors.
• Capable of participating in a team environment.
• Maintains a consistent professional attitude, high motivation, and ability to accept feedback.
• Learns and maintains proper time management
• Knowledge of ZIMS programming is a plus.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provides daily husbandry and exhibit…