Zookeeper - Louisiana Swamp and Jaguar Jungle

Overview

Position Title:

Zookeeper - Louisiana Swamp and Jaguar Jungle

Department:
Animal

Reports To:

Assistant Curator of Section

Location:

Audubon Zoo

General

Summary:

Reporting directly to the Assistant Curator of an assigned area, and under the general supervision of the Curator, zookeepers perform routine duties; work under minimal supervision in a wide range of functions including training and behavioral enrichment. This position focuses on Central and South American species that include Seba bats, small mammals, alpaca, reptiles, amphibians and insects. The role may cross-train in the Louisiana Swamp and Jaguar Jungle to provide additional coverage.

The ideal candidate will have strong time management, organization, and attention to detail, and a background in varied taxa husbandry is strongly desired. Ability to work with and around dangerous animals (carnivores and alligators) is required, with a proven safety record. A love for Louisiana and its culture is preferred. The role offers opportunities in animal training and welfare with access to webinars and consultations.

This position may be offered at Senior Keeper level with 6 years of relevant experience.

To deliver on the Audubon mission, the Zookeeper will:

• Provide a guest experience of outstanding quality.
• A strong willingness to engage guests about the Audubon Zoo’s mission, having genuine conversations about the animals, conservation, wildlife, and take-home messages.
• Exercise sound judgment to evaluate emergency situations with guests.
• Weave quality entertainment through the guest experience.
• Present highly engaging educational programs as assigned.
• Participate in animal shows, chats, and feeds for guests daily.
• Conduct behind-the-scenes tours for VIPs, donors, and Audubon Education programs as scheduled.
• Provide guest-paid behind-the-scenes experiences with the animals under care.
• Extensive interaction with the public, including on- and off-site educational and media presentations.
• Identify and correct maintenance needs and report them to supervisors.
• Initiate and perform behavior modification and enrichment programs as designated.
• Observe animal health and behavior daily and report abnormalities to supervisors.
• Maintain daily records of health and behavior for animals in the assigned area.
• Prepare and follow prescribed diets and feeding procedures as directed by supervisors.
• Assist in training new personnel in animal care in accordance with policies and procedures.
• Contribute to a positive team environment and value the contributions of all team members.
• Assist in the selection, training, supervision, evaluation, and assignment of volunteers as needed.
• Assist in developing new facilities and improving existing ones as assigned.
• Prepare technical reports on various aspects of captive animal management and exhibition as assigned.
• Participate in capturing, restraining, and moving animals and share techniques with team members.
• Assist veterinary and curatorial staff in treating animals as assigned and prescribed.
• Make decisions consistent with Audubon policies and procedures when required.
• Perform daily duties in all sections of the assigned department as required.
• Demonstrate strong time-management skills.
• Takes initiative by leading coworkers, interns, and volunteers in coordinating and leading group projects.
• Maintain a positive attitude and accountability for actions; take personal responsibility for surroundings.
• Display moral and ethical actions and seek alternative solutions when possible.

The above-listed duties are general statements of major duties and responsibilities performed regularly and continuously. They do not exclude other duties as assigned.

• Welcome
• Make eye contact with every customer encounter, smile, and offer friendly greetings.
• Wear an identification badge and follow dress code; maintain a camera-ready appearance.
• Walk guests to destinations and assist as needed.
• Take ownership of potential safety hazards (e.g., spills, trash).
• Share
• Engage team members and guests positively at all times and use teamwork to deliver excellent service.
• Know when to involve the management team.
• Inspire
• Share passion and experiences for wildlife conservation; exhibit gratitude; take ownership of opportunities to exceed expectations.

• Diverse and strong knowledge of the principles of captive exotic animal management.
• Water quality testing experience or willingness to learn.
• Life support system experience or willingness to learn.
• Strong knowledge of…