Zookeeper

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Animal Care and Conservation

Description

JOB SUMMARY

This is an entry-level, on-call position in animal care, following established protocols to provide outstanding animal care for species in the section, including food preparation, feeding, exhibit maintenance, pest control, and reproductive management. This is a full-time, benefited position working up to 40 hours per week.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Provide overall daily care of assigned animals and exhibits to ensure animal health, safety, and welfare, staff and public safety as set forth by AZA, USDA, and Attending Veterinarian, to include Observe and monitor animals’ general health and behavior, reporting any abnormal behavior to supervisor and/or veterinary staff.

Prepare and provide food for assigned animals, following written instructions, provide water, and administer medication as instructed to ensure proper nutrition and health.

Clean animal exhibits, holding pens, food prep areas, and equipment, maintaining a high level of sanitation, conducting pest control activities, and reporting any mechanical defects that would endanger the animal, Sanctuary staff, and/or guests.

Achieve the highest standards of animal welfare and wellness by providing environmental enrichment and training sessions, using operant conditioning, as applicable;

Participate in or assist with the capture and restraint of a variety of taxa, including dangerous species.

Prepare and update animal records, reports, and surveys, assisting in research projects as necessary to ensure thorough documentation and enhanced knowledge of animal biology;

Perform general maintenance and repair of exhibits: painting, repairing fences and shelters, abating erosion, planting ground cover, and removing weeds;

Provide assistance with animal transfers and/or procedures as directed;

Interact positively and professionally with animal care and veterinary staff and volunteers; actively encourage interest in wildlife by engaging Sanctuary guests through educational presentations focused on animals, biology, conservation, and environmental issues.

Utilize existing enrichment programs and create new enrichment ideas and items to be added to taxa repertoires and properly record the results of enrichment items after each use.

Collaborate with other Sanctuary personnel as needed to meet the Sanctuary’s mission. This can include, but is not limited to, assisting and participating in media events, special tours, and public relations projects;

Participate in and support Sanctuary-wide initiatives, committees, and work groups;
Understand and support Tiger Creek’s Strategic and Master Plans and departmental collection plans;

Study specific reference materials pertinent to animal care, behavior, and natural history as assigned; follow all safety protocols; understand the animal keeper's role in emergency procedures; and respond to emergencies as required.

Be able to supervise and train volunteers and interns within the department as needed; assist with beautifying our park by removing trash and debris whenever you see it; and raise awareness for AZA SAFE programs.

Perform other duties as assigned.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree in animal science, biology, or related science field, plus one year of exotic animal care experience

QUALIFICATIONS

An associate’s degree in animal science, biology, or a related science field, or equivalent paid animal care experience

Must have knowledge of animal care and basic husbandry skills, and up to one year of exotic animal care experience is preferred.

Must be a flexible, efficient, self-motivated team player, and solution-oriented: finding creative solutions to complex challenges.

Must have basic knowledge of research techniques and practices, with solid…