Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) is a leader in animal care, wildlife conservation, and education. We are passionate about our commitment to excellence in support of our mission of Inspiring Communities to Save Wildlife for Future Generations.
DZCA honors our animals, staff, and guests by conducting ourselves at the highest level of integrity through our Core Actions -- Inspire Awe: Safety, Care, Connect, and by embracing our Core Values of: Welcoming, Curious, United, Courageous, and Transformative in all that we do.
The primary responsibilities of the Tropical Discovery Variable Part Time Animal Care Specialist will include rotational coverage for all aquatic and terrestrial sections in a support capacity. Successful candidates will have familiarity with all taxa, but a stronger focus in either aquatics or reptile/amphibian husbandry is preferred.
Candidates must be available to work a flexible schedule, including weekends. This is a variable part-time position with a maximum of 19 hours per week; however, scheduled hours may fluctuate and are not guaranteed each week. Weekly schedules will vary based on operational needs.
Our team is made up of passionate and diverse professionals dedicated to providing excellent care for our animals while creating meaningful experiences for our guests. If you're excited to contribute your skills in a collaborative and innovative environment, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is the place for you!
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Animal Care
- Provide innovative animal husbandry that follows AZA and USDA standards.
- Maintain proper animal enclosures/props/exhibits and Life Support Systems where appropriate.
- Capture, handle, and move animals using accepted DZCA practices to facilitate internal movement, external shipping, medical procedures, or normal routines.
- Monitoring of physical and behavioral aspects of the animals under assigned care.
- Implementation of the behavioral program for the animals under assigned care.
- Record data and prepare assigned reports/records (i.e., daily reports, enclosure logs, facility logs, water quality logs, etc.) and other pertinent data on the collection and facilities as required.
Collaboration
- Work closely with other team members to achieve area goals and expectations.
- Train fellow keepers, interns, and volunteers in standard section routines.
- Cooperate and coordinate with other departments (e.g., education, maintenance, horticulture) and outside contractors.
- Maintain professional working relationships with zoo team members.
- Actively participate in conservation and research projects as assigned.
- Participate in and support zoo-wide initiatives, committees, and work groups.
Guest Experience
- Interact with guests in both formal and informal settings, providing insight about the animals and their care.
- Provide area behind-the-scenes tours, up-close looks, keeper talks, and work special events in the area of responsibility as needed.
- Participate in educational programs as assigned.
- Maintain a professional appearance, following uniform guidelines.
Facilities and Operations
- Respond to zoo-wide animal-related emergencies.
- Coordinate the efforts of contractors and maintenance staff when they are working in animal areas.
- Follow DZCA safety protocols.
- Demonstrate a commitment to DZCA Occupational Health, Safety, Environmental & Sustainability Policies by adhering to all health, safety & environmental regulations, procedures, and goals.
Technical/Professional Requirements & Qualifications
- Working towards the completion of a Bachelor's Degree in a science or animal-related field.
- Experience with exotic animal care is required. Previous experience at an AZA-accredited institution is highly preferred.
- Ability, with proper training, to work in all aspects of animal care, husbandry, and training within the department in which the individual is assigned.
- Work on weekends and holidays is required.
- Familiarity with a variety of light and medium equipment.
Position Conditions
- To support our operations, candidates must be at least 21 years of age with a valid driver's license and a clean driving record.
- Ability to pass a physical examination, background check, and pre-employment drug and alcohol screen.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Negative TB Test
- Rabies Titer
- Schedule Availability: This is a variable position with a potentially changing schedule to meet the greatest team need. This position offers up to 19 hours per week, though weekly hours may vary and are not guaranteed.
- Work Location: On campus.
Compensation
The range for this position is $24.20 - $28.90 (hourly).
Wild Perks
As a variable-part-time team member, you’ll have access to some great perks, including:
- A Family DZCA Membership – Bring your crew and explore!
- Exclusive Discounts – Save on concessions and retail.
- Sick Time Accrual – Because your well-being matters.
- 403(b) Retirement Account – Plan for your future.
Application Process & Timelines
Resumes / Completed applications must be submitted by February 24, 2026. Review of applications will begin immediately. DZCA reserves the right to close the position before this date.
Denver Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
