Minutes from downtown, Zoo Atlanta is the oldest and one of the most respected cultural destinations in the Southeast’s largest and most vibrant city. Culture, dining, nightlife, and famously eclectic neighborhoods, not to mention a temperate climate year-round, attract a growing number of newcomers to the one-and-only Atlanta. Atlanta is known as the “City in the Trees,” with the Zoo and surrounding neighborhood showcasing why. The zoo is in a strong financial position and is committed to investing in our staff and facilities to continue our focus on animal care, research, and conservation. We offer competitive pay rates, a diverse animal collection and an enriching work environment. We are looking for new team members dedicated to providing the best in animal welfare.
Job Purpose:
- Animal keepers are responsible for animal husbandry, including training and enrichment. Additionally, animal keepers are responsible for maintenance of habitats, holding and public areas of the assigned department.
- Keeper will report to the area managers.
- For more information about our animal, conservation, and research programs visit www.zooatlanta.org.
- The Ambassador Animal team cares for the zoo’s tractable education collection, bird show birds, petting zoo and a few exhibits.
- This position is primarily with our Word of Willd Theater bird show team.
JOB FACTORS:
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
- Monitor health and behavior of the animal collection and communicate changes to supervisor and veterinary staff. Oversee administration of medications as applicable.
- Maintain a high-performance level of keeper duties including excellent animal care and guest interactions.
- Strong interpersonal skills to form and maintain positive relationships within the work environment.
- Actively participate in the improvement of area policies, procedures and protocols to ensure the highest standards of care for the collection and the safety of staff and guests with the willingness to provide constructive feedback.
- Support and participate in the coordination of collaborative efforts pertaining to the care of the collection including, but not limited to, training, enrichment, research, and education.
- Complete behavioral management training and utilize operant conditioning techniques.
- Actively foster constructive attitudes and positively participate in a team environment.
- Support Zoo Atlanta and its departments which include marketing, education, veterinary services, facilities and external department initiatives.
- Demonstrate the ability to coordinate and supervise activities of interns and volunteers.
- Communicates effectively with supervisory staff and co-workers, both written and orally.
- When possible, actively participate in workshops, seminars, activities, and conferences aimed at continually improving job knowledge and professional development.
- Must be willing to fully support Zoo Atlanta’s strategic plan, mission and values, and work with all zoo staff to support these plans.
- Responsible for special projects, procedures, and goals set forth by the area managers.
- Support Zoo Atlanta’s conservation and research initiatives.
- Must be dependable and willing to work flexible hours, weekends and holidays.
- Must be excited to interact with guests during shows, animal encounters, and keeper talks.
- This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; therefore, the employee may be required to perform other reasonably related duties as assigned by management.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- A minimum of 5 years’ animal care experience as determined by Zoo Atlanta.
- Paid experience at an AZA accredited facility is preferred.
- Good communication skills, an enthusiasm for interacting with the public and a willingness to give regular talks to guests, special groups, etc.
- Experience with operant conditioning and enrichment techniques.
- Must have strong written and oral skills.
- Demonstrate computer proficiency to complete the functions of this position.
- Must have the ability to use light power tools after suitable training.
- Experience with bird of prey handling using up to date methods preferred.
- Experience performing a speaking role in stage shows.
Education:
- Four-year degree in biology, psychology, or related field is preferred; sufficient relevant experience will be considered.
Driving Requirements:
Must obtain and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license.
Work Environment/Physical Demands:
- Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions and have the physical ability to perform strenuous work.
Miscellaneous:
- This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive.
- Therefore, the employee may be required to perform other reasonably related duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor or other management.
- The company reserves the right to revise or change job duties as business requirements dictate.
- It is mutually agreed that this job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.
- Zoo Atlanta is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides a Smoke-free and Drug-free Work Environment.
Perks
- Health,
- Dental,
- Vision,
- 403(B),
- PTO,
- and more.
