Lead Aquatics Keeper

Nashville Zoo Mission

Nashville Zoo is dedicated to inspiring a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation, and leadership. With a diverse collection of animals and a commitment to wildlife preservation, we provide engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.

Position:
Lead Keeper Aquatics

Department: Ectotherm
Supervisor: Supervisor of Aquatics

Why Work With Us

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage – medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – confidential support services.
• 401(k) retirement plan – with company matching.
• Generous paid time off and sick leave
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• Exclusive zoo perks – discounts on park experiences, retail, and food services.
• Collaborative and inclusive culture – diverse team, growth nurturing.
• AZA-accredited facility – top‑tier animal care and ethics.

Description

Under supervision, the Lead Keeper of the Aquatics Department serves to assist supervisory and curatorial staff and participate in general care of assigned collection animals. Additional responsibilities include coordination of interns and docents, collaboration with the Veterinary Department, and potential MOD duties for the Zoo following proper training and approval.

Duties and Responsibilities Animal Husbandry

• Prepare food and water by cutting and measuring portions.
• Feed and monitor animals closely for appearance, diet consumption, and fecal matter.
• Maintain feed intake, habitat temperature records, and keeper log book.
• Record daily health and behavior observations on a Daily Report to the Curator.
• Clean exhibits, service areas, and capture, incapacitate, and move animals.
• Assist veterinarian staff in animal treatment and uphold Dangerous Animal Handling protocols.

Maintenance

• Clean and disinfect utensils, tools, and containers.
• Maintain plant life surrounding enclosures.
• Perform minor routine maintenance of enclosures and filtration systems.
• Create and maintain digital media graphics in collaboration with Curator and Area Supervisor.
• Operate a variety of light and medium equipment.

Public Education

• Coordinate daily keeper talks to educate the public about Aquatic Department animals.
• Respond to public questions regarding animals and exhibits.
• Model the Zoo's image and code of professional ethics.

Field Work

• Aide curator and supervisor in maintenance and progression of conservation projects.
• Work outside year‑round under typical Tennessee weather, uneven terrain, dust, and allergens.
• Collect and maintain raw data accurately in field situations.

Lead Keeper Supervisory

The Lead Keeper assists the Area Supervisor in assigning, participating, and supervising the work of animal keepers. The Lead Keeper does not have authority to reprimand staff; staffing issues must be discussed with supervisory and curatorial staff.

Skills

• Animal behavior, feeding, and handling of fish, aquatic plants, and invertebrates.
• Safety practices around exotic animals and aquatic animal biology.
• Techniques for restraining and capturing exotic and domestic animals.
• Zoo policies and procedures, personnel management, animal conditioning, filtration systems.

Capable of

• Completely performing the outlined responsibilities.
• Monitoring animal behavior and appearance.
• Operating motorized vehicles and equipment – valid driver’s license required.
• Taking and following work instructions.
• Working in a team‑oriented atmosphere.
• Effectively communicating with coworkers and supervisors.
• Interacting with the general public appropriately.
• Supervising, training, and mentoring assigned staff.
• Making unbiased and non‑judgmental decisions when dealing with subordinates.

Physical Requirements

Work outside year‑round under typical Tennessee weather, uneven terrain, dust, allergens, slippery surfaces, handle toxic and hazardous materials, cramped and confined spaces. Lift and carry up to 75 pounds.

Education

BS in zoology, animal biology, animal husbandry, or related field and/or at least two years of work experience at a zoological facility or equivalent training and experience.

Pre‑Employment Requirements

• Complete criminal background check and drug screening prior to hire.
• Pre‑employment and annual TB screenings are a condition of continued employment.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Nashville Zoo is an EEO employer and maintains a drug‑free work environment. All employment is at‑will.

Benefits

• Robust benefits package designed to support health, well‑being, and future.

Pay Range

$19–$24 USD

Seniority Level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type

Full‑time

Job Function

Administrative

Industries

Museums, Historical Sites, and Zoos

Contact

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Applicant May Be Required to Work Any Combination of Five Days in the Seven‑Day Workweek Including Holidays. #J-18808-Ljbffr