Seasonal Zookeeper Aide; Ambassador

Overview

Job Summary
At John Ball Zoo, the role of a Zookeeper Aide (Ambassador) is a thrilling adventure every day. This position works primarily with the Zoo's Ambassador Animal collection, which includes reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, birds, and small mammals. You will feed these creatures, maintain their habitats, engage in educational programs, and support the animals’ well-being. This role emphasizes animal care and customer-facing education, contributing to the welfare of our diverse animal family.

Pay Rate
Starting at $14.00 / Hour

What’s In It For You

• Zoo Membership – during employment ($135 Value)
• Free Bus Passes
• Scholarship Opportunities
• Free Lunches
• Incentive Opportunities for Close Encounters and Behind-The-Scenes Tours
  • Penguin feeding, Brown Bear encounter and more!
• Tickets to Special Events
  • Lanterns Festival and More!
• Reward-Based Incentives – Free food, discounts at the retail store, zip line, rope course, and camel rides!
• Flexible Scheduling (Student & Retiree Friendly)
• Personal & Professional Development Opportunities
• Easy Application

• Assisting in the feeding and watering of animals according to regular schedules.
• Observing the physical and behavioral condition of the animals by noting their appetite, appearance, and activity; reporting problems to appropriate personnel and documenting in daily reports.
• Assisting in maintaining a high level of animal welfare through daily husbandry.
• Cleaning and disinfecting all animal holdings and habitats.

• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Zoology, Biology, Animal Husbandry, or a closely related field, or enrolled in schooling for one of the indicated subjects, or equivalent experience.

• Incumbent will work in various environments both inside and outside and may occasionally be exposed to inclement weather, temperature and air quality variations.
• Must be able to work in relative proximity to exotic and domestic animals and tolerate exposure to animal dander, wastes, and other zoonotic contaminants as well as dust, dirt, pollen and other airborne contaminants.
• While performing essential functions, may be exposed to moving mechanical hazards, noxious fumes, blood borne pathogens, cleaning compounds, solvents, detergents, noise, and other hazards.

• Must be able to sit, stand, walk, reach, and lift/move up to 60 pounds.
• Sufficient visual and auditory acuity (with or without corrective devices) to assess animal condition, behavior, and inspect exhibits.
• Manual dexterity, strength, and ability to use tools for exhibit maintenance and operating manual equipment.
• Ability to kneel and rise multiple times per day for ground-level inspections and maintenance.
• Tolerate exposure to dust, dirt, pollen, inclement weather, high humidity, and extreme temperatures.
• Able to work near exotic and domestic animals.
• Sufficient mobility (with or without assistive devices) to access all areas for inspection and maintenance.
• Must wear the required protective clothing and equipment.

• Knowledge of exotic animal management principles and practices.
• Understanding of animal psychology and behavior, with the ability to identify signs of stress, illness, or other conditions requiring attention.
• Familiarity with cleaning and disinfecting methods for animal exhibits and holding areas.
• Must be available to work weekends, holidays, and evenings if required.

John Ball Zoo is a drug-free workplace under federal regulations. Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.