Herpetology Keeper – (Full-Time)
Location: Saint Louis Zoo – Forest Park
Classification: Non-Exempt/Hourly
Position Summary: The Saint Louis Zoo is seeking an experienced keeper to join the herpetology department. The Herpetology team at the Saint Louis Zoo manages over 150 species of reptiles and amphibians. In addition to Zoo-based exhibitry, the Herpetology team is heavily involved in the conservation of many imperiled species through conservation-breeding programs and our WildCare Institute Centers and Programs.
Responsibilities: Responsible for all duties related to the care of a large, diverse collection of reptiles and amphibians, including venomous animals, crocodilians and large constrictors. Major duties include, but are not limited to, cleaning and maintaining animal habitats and service areas, feeding and watering animals, testing water quality, and maintaining HVAC and aquatic life support systems. Individuals must maintain accurate records and behavioral observations, must interact and educate guests and serve as a representative of the Saint Louis Zoo and its many programs, including facilitation of tours and guest engagement opportunities. Keepers participate in initiatives aimed at supporting the sustainability of herpetofauna collections, and are expected to contribute to conservation and propagation projects. Keepers are expected to work closely with staff from other units of the Saint Louis Zoo on a regular basis, including veterinary, nutrition, life support and facilities management. Keepers must evaluate and improve animal welfare, and assisting with research initiatives and priorities as needed. Where appropriate, keeper may participate in field conservation endeavors as opportunities and needs arise to support the work of the Saint Louis Zoo.
Qualifications: Previous paid keeper experience working with reptiles and amphibians is required; experience working with venomous and dangerous reptiles is strongly preferred, this candidate will work with an extensive array of venomous snake species as well as crocodilians, large constrictors, and Komodo Dragon. A Bachelors degree in Biology, Zoology or a related field is desired; however, candidates with substantial relevant experience will also be considered. Knowledge of animal behavior, natural history, and good observation and record keeping skills are important, and the candidate is required to have good writing and speaking skills. Adherence to safety practices and a good understanding of departmental and Zoo-wide safety procedures is expected, and an established good keeper safety record is preferred. SCUBA and/or dive certification is desirable.
Candidates must demonstrate the ability to work well both independently and in a team and communicate professionally and effectively within their team, their manager and curator. A successful candidate will proactively contribute to the team and the Zoo’s conservation mission, and will possess high emotional intelligence.
A competitive candidate will be innovative, positive and will actively support and embody the Saint Louis Zoo’s core values of community, creativity, openness, integrity and life-work balance and follow the Zoo’s three operational guiding keys (Animals Always, People Matter, Operational Excellence). All successful candidates for this position will be required to undergo a criminal background check and a drug test. As this is a safety-sensitive role, a negative drug test result is mandatory. The drug test screens for five substances, including marijuana.
Physical Demands: Candidates must have the physical ability to perform required duties as assigned, including standing for long periods of time, lifting, bending, climbing, carrying and lifting equipment and animals and working indoors in rooms with a wide range of humidity and temperature parameters (56–85° F ), and outdoors in all types of seasonal and inclement weather.
About the Saint Louis Zoo: The world-renowned Saint Louis Zoo is dedicated to saving species and bringing people and wildlife together. The Saint Louis Zoo cares for approximately 12,000 animals, many of which are endangered, and is dedicated to local and global conservation to save wildlife. Learn more at: https://stlzoo.org/
The Zoo is committed to the Three Keys (Animals Always, People Matter, and Operational Excellence) and Core Values (Community, Creativity, Openness, Integrity, and Life-Work Balance. Learn more at: https://stlzoo.org/
About St. Louis, Mo: From Explore St. Louis: “Urban explorer, outdoor adventurer, aficionado of family fun – no matter your travel persona, you’ll find plenty to do in St. Louis. The city is brimming with free, world-class attractions and boasts an arts-and-culture scene that’s second to none. Plus, fans of fresh air will be surprised and delighted by our flourishing public parks, miles of trails and exhilarating waterways. Sprinkle in a bit of our secret sauce – the warmth and hospitality of the residents – and you’ll discover that St. Louis dishes up undeniably epic travel experiences. Don’t take our word for it, though. Come and see for yourself.” Learn more at https://explorestlouis.com/
