Animal Keeper California Trail (Float)

The Animal Keeper, CA Trail (Floating) works across two animal strings and has the opportunity to care for a variety of species: Jaguar, Bison, Grizzly/Black Bear, Condor, Bald Eagle, Gray Wolf, and Mountain Lion. Animal Keepers are expected to develop a comprehensive knowledge of the natural history of the species to support them in providing appropriate care for our animals and direction from the Senior Keeper, Lead Keeper and/or the Zoological Manager regarding daily operations as appropriate. This role will cover strings in the absence of the primary keeper(s) or assist the primary keeper with duties and special projects as needed. If you are looking for a keeper role that provides the opportunity to work with multiple species, this could be the fit for you.

• California Trail is the latest expansion to the Oakland Zoo and is focused on species that are native, or once were, to California.
• CA Trail is key in the zoo's goal to inspire people to connect with our state's remarkable biodiversity and how to live with wildlife so we can protect their futures.
• Some of the exciting things happening with conservation in this section include partnering with the Blackfeet Nation to release bison back on the landscape, and assisting in the rearing of rescued, non-releasable, mountain lion kittens.

Essential Job Duties 

• Use the tools of animal observation, enrichment, training and other management methods to ensure the best possible psychological well-being of the animals in their care
• Conduct ongoing assessment of their physical and psycho-social needs
• Design and implement steps to address these needs
• Implement Department/Zoo priorities as well as demonstrate the initiative and expertise to regularly find ways to make improvements
• Guide and support junior staff and volunteers as appropriate
• Represent the Zoo in a variety of public settings including press interviews, instructional classes and casual communication with Zoo guests
• Perform other related duties as required and assigned 

Experience Required

• Minimum of one year full time or 2,080 hours experience in the care of captive wildlife in the zoo field (preferably at an AZA or GFAS facility), large carnivore experience strongly preferred.
• Able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs. (i.e. feed sack) and move a minimum of 120lbs. (i.e. hay bale) Able to walk long distances on uneven terrain in variable environmental conditions (e.g., steep, muddy, etc.) Valid driver’s license and clean driving record Willingness to work outside normal business hours including weekends, evenings, and holidays Knowledge of the habits and hazards of working with wild, dangerous animals; willingness to work with some physical risk while observing proper safety precautions The Oakland Zoo requires COVID vaccination, up to date tetanus, and negative TB test* Bonus if you have... Knowledge and experience in behavioral training theory and practical application Ability to inspire guests in casual (e.g., one on one) and formal (i.e., programs) venues to take action for conservation Bachelor’s degree in zoology, biology or a related field

Further Comments

• This position is subject to a collective bargaining agreement.

Perks

• Comprehensive benefits package includes
• medical,
• dental,
• life insurance,
• PTO (Paid Time Off),
• Union pension,
• and a Friends
• Family Zoo Membership.

Salary

• $26.47 per hour