VHE Animal Keeper - Primates

Hello, we’re Metro! Metro is dedicated to shaping a better future for the greater Portland region. The work the people of Metro do every day benefits the lives of the people who live here, today, and tomorrow.

The Oregon Zoo has a reputation for leading groundbreaking research, participates in local and global conservation efforts, and strives to exceed AZA animal welfare standard. The zoo is also deeply committed to sustainability and conservation education. Thanks to a generous $380 million voter approved bond measure, the zoo is transforming into a game changing facility welfare, species and habitat conservation outcomes, and green building practices.

We are excited to provide an opportunity to join the team as a Variable Hour Animal Keeper in the Primates area. If you’re passionate about wildlife and have a deep interest in primates, this could be the perfect role for you.

In this position, you’ll play a vital role in the care and well‑being of primates, including chimpanzees, orangutans, gibbons, monkeys, lemurs, and other small mammals. As an Animal Keeper, you’ll be responsible for a variety of tasks, including day‑to‑day husbandry activities and other essential activities that contribute to the health and enrichment of the animals in our care.

• Observe animals to identify normal and abnormal behavior, reproductive behavior, eating habits, health problems, injuries, and adjustment to diet changes or response to medication. Identify and report concerns to supervisor;
  Involvement in corrective actions.
• Stay up to date on current industry care standards for the designated species, including but not limited to feeding strategies, introduction methods, breeding and rearing practices, social management, training practices and strategies, and engaging enrichment.
• Utilize the principles of operant conditioning to facilitate daily husbandry, behavioral modification, and medical procedures.
• Service a variety of animal environments including cleaning and disinfecting cages, yards, pools, and food and water receptacles.
• Check conditions of animal environments to assess security and safety for animals. Initiate corrective actions for deficiencies.
• Feed animals in a species‑specific manner, report on consumption and recommend diet modifications as needed Instigate or provide suggestions for enrichment programs/items which demonstrate knowledge of designated species’ natural biology and individual animal needs; provide designated enrichment to species under care.

• Administer medications, as prescribed by veterinarians. Inform veterinarian and supervisor of response to medication or other treatments and address concerns as needed
• Perform or assist with general husbandry tasks, regularly communicate with supervisor regarding husbandry.
  May assist with capture, restraint, or segregation of animals for transfer or medical treatment.
• May be involved with developing materials for education purposes and presenting education materials to the public. Conduct informative and professional talks and tours through area of responsibility.
• Keep concise, objective records regarding diet, daily animal health and behavior, births, deaths and transfers.
• Maintain animal care standards and works in compliance with all USDA and AZA rules, regulations, and guidelines, as well as safety rules, OSHA standards, work rules, and Zoo and area policies and procedures
• Contribute to a positive team atmosphere thorough the daily coordination of work with colleagues, supervisors, gardeners, custodians, security, maintenance and other zoo staff
• Effectively communicate to managers, team members other zoo departments and guests.

• Knowledge of animal husbandry practices for species under care
• Comfort and experience working with exotic and potentially dangerous animals in a safety‑oriented work environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Contribute to a positive team atmosphere and contribute in a close, team‑oriented environment. Ability to successfully train animal behaviors from inception through completion.
• Passion for animal care and conservation.

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