Zookeeper; Birds

The Virginia Zoo in Norfolk is seeking enthusiastic and experienced Zookeepers I and II – Birds. The role is essential to animal care, welfare and ensuring safe working environments at the zoo, where we maintain many rare, endangered and potentially dangerous animals.

This position works in a team environment, playing a critical part in maintaining good standards of animal care, presentation and customer service for the nearly 500,000 visitors to the zoo each year. The role will primarily work on the Bird team with animals housed within the Bird section but may be required to work in any of the Animal Care areas as needed.

Zookeeper I – $44,094.67 – $50,599.65

Zookeeper II – $45,858.46 – $52,623.63

• Observe animals, checking for medical problems, changes in behavior, feeding habits, and overall well‑being.
• Feed animals as specified by curatorial and veterinary staff in accordance with nutritional and behavioral requirements.
• Clean, disinfect, and maintain animal exhibits, enclosures, food and water dishes, pools, and other areas.
• Keep daily records on each animal (behavioral observations, exhibit integrity and maintenance, etc.).
• Supervise interns when required.
• Conduct animal demonstrations for zoo visitors and write educational presentations.
• Handle and assist in the restraint and capture of animals.
• Lift heavy feed and manure receptacles and walk long distances.
• Possess knowledge of behavioral characteristics and handling procedures for assigned animals.
• Know animal restraint apparatus such as ropes, squeeze cages, catch poles, nets, etc.
• Use tools and operate small equipment.
• Require normal hearing and vision, and the ability to stand, bend, lift, stoop, push, and pull.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing and work in a team environment.
• Work in a friendly and professional manner with staff, volunteers, colleagues, and zoo visitors.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Work requires broad knowledge in a general profession or technical field.
• Knowledge normally acquired through four years of college, resulting in a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited college, or a 2‑year associate’s degree with a dedicated zoo keeping or wildlife program.
• Zookeeper I – One or more years working as a zookeeper in an AZA accredited institution.
• Zookeeper II – Three or more years working as a zookeeper in an AZA accredited institution.

• Virginia Driving License

Virginia Zoological Park, 3500 Granby St., Norfolk, VA 23504

40 hours a week, worked over a 5‑workday schedule; schedule may vary. Working weekends and holidays may be required.