Keeper Aide; Children's Zoo - Temporary

Keeper Aide (Children's Zoo) - Temporary

Oakland Zoo | Posted Feb 28 | Full‑time | Negotiable | Unknown

About The Position

This position is subject to a collective bargaining agreement.

Note: This is a part‑time temporary position expected to end on May 31, 2026.

Payrate
: $22.50 per hour. This will be our best and final compensation offer.

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Position Summary

Keeper Aides gain entry‑level experience in the Animal Care, Conservation & Research department. The part‑time, temporary role supports animal keepers in daily work and projects, primarily assisting the Zoo’s commissary staff and the goat and sheep petting yard.

Essential Job Duties

• Prepare diets, deliver meals, clean and sanitize work areas, restock supplies, and complete additional assigned projects in the Commissary.
• Clean and maintain the goat and sheep barn and petting yard; clean and set up animal holding areas.
• Sweep, rake, shovel, hose, scrub, move heavy objects, operate a wheelbarrow, climb ladders, weed, prune, and use knives and other tools as needed.
• Perform other related duties as required and assigned.

Supervisory Responsibility

No supervisory responsibility.

Who You Are

• Excellent guest service communication skills and attitude.
• Able to follow instructions and carry out responsibilities safely.
• Can work independently, completing duties within specified time frames.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
• Willingness to work with some physical risk while observing proper safety precautions.
• Available to work 6‑8 hour shifts 2‑4 days per week during and outside normal business hours, including weekends and most holidays.

Medical requirements

• Negative TB test within the last year.
• Tetanus vaccine within the last 10 years.

Bonus if you have

• Some experience working around animals in a zoo or rehab setting.
• Comfort working around people, including children.
• Experience with the safe use of power tools.
• High school diploma or GED.

Physical Considerations

• Able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs. and move a minimum of 120 lbs.
• Able to walk long distances on uneven terrain in variable environmental conditions.

Required Education

Not specified.

Knowledge, Skills, and Qualities

• Communication – communicates respectfully and effectively with stakeholders.
• Inclusive Culture – fosters a culture of mutual respect, transparency, collaboration and belonging.
• Passion – wholeheartedly believes in, represents, and models Oakland Zoo’s mission and PRIDE values.
• Sustainability – oriented toward the mission and values of Oakland Zoo and able to put those into practice.
• Wildlife Aware – understands mission to support the conservation and welfare of animals.

Who We Are

Oakland Zoo (managed by The Conservation Society of California) is an award‑winning facility. Our mission is to inspire respect for and stewardship of the natural world.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access

We are committed to an equitable and inclusive culture and encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ identifying folks, and women to apply.

EEO Statement

The Conservation Society of California is an equal‑opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, QAOV status, or other characteristics protected by law. The Conservation Society of California also promotes respect for all people and will not tolerate harassment based on any of these characteristics.

Oakland Zoo participates in E‑Verify to verify work authorization.

Final date to receive applications March 9, 2026

Benefits – Employee Assistance Program, Paid Sick Time, optional 403b Retirement Plan, Zoo Membership, perks, discounts, and programs.

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