Lead Avian Keeper

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Position:
Lead Keeper Avian
Department:
Avian
Supervisor:
Supervisor of Avian
Curator:
Curator of Birds

Under supervision, the employee will serve as the Lead Keeper of the Avian Department at the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere.

Primary responsibilities include assisting supervisory and curatorial staff, participating in the general care of assigned collection animals, maintaining exhibits, performing light exhibit construction, operating zoo vehicles, maintaining integrity of existing exhibits, ordering supplies and coordinating interns and docents. The Lead Keeper also serves as the primary contact for veterinary matters and may undertake MOD duties when properly trained and approved by the Zoo Director.

When both the Supervisor and Curator are out of the office, the Lead Keeper will lead the Avian Department. The role is full‑time, requires proficient conflict resolution skills with staff and the public, and a positive, team‑oriented attitude. Proper chains of communication must be maintained during disagreements with coworkers.

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

• Prepare food and water by cutting and measuring diet portions
• Feed collection animals
• Monitor animals for general appearance, diet consumption, fecal condition, etc.
• Maintain feed intake and habitat temperature records
• Maintain a keeper log book and submit daily reports to the Curator
• Clean animal exhibits and service areas
• Assist in capturing, incapacitating, and moving animals
• Assist veterinarian staff in treatment of collection animals
• Provide exhibit security and prevent vandalism and maltreatment
• Train subordinates in basic animal conditioning techniques
• Uphold standards in incubation, brooding, and hand‑rearing protocols

• Clean and disinfect utensils, work tools, and containers
• Maintain plant life in and around enclosures
• Perform minor or routine enclosure maintenance and report more extensive needs
• Create and maintain new and existing graphics
• Operate a variety of light and medium equipment

• Coordinate daily keeper talks to educate the public
• Respond to public questions about animals and exhibits
• Model the Zoo’s image and code of professional ethics

• Assist curator and supervisor in maintenance and progression of conservation projects
• Work outdoors year‑round under typical Tennessee weather conditions, including uneven terrain and exposure to dust, allergens, and slippery surfaces
• Collect and maintain raw data accurately in the field

• Animal behavior
• Care, feeding, and handling of reptiles and amphibians
• Safety practices around exotic animals
• Animal biology, zoology, or related field
• Techniques for restraining and capturing exotic and domestic animals
• Zoo policies and procedures
• Personnel management
• Animal conditioning

• Fully perform responsibilities outlined above
• Monitor animal behavior and appearance
• Operate motorized vehicles and equipment; valid driver’s license required
• Follow work instructions
• Work in a team‑oriented atmosphere
• Communicate effectively with coworkers and supervisors
• Interact with the general public appropriately
• Supervise, train, and mentor assigned staff
• Make unbiased, non‑judgmental decisions with subordinates

Work outside year‑round under typical Tennessee conditions, including uneven terrain, dust, allergens, and slippery surfaces. Handle toxic and hazardous materials, work in confined spaces, and lift up to 75 lbs.

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

Background check required. Must pass a drug test.

Work may require any combination of five days in a seven‑day week, including holidays.