Houston Zoo is seeking a zookeeper to join the Elephants team! A successful candidate for this position is motivated, energetic, and a team-oriented individual with good problem solving written/oral communication, and organizational/interpersonal skills. This candidate will have solid knowledge in operant conditioning, implementation of animal training and enrichment programs, as well as being comfortable with public speaking.
Our Mission:
- Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife.
Our Vision:
- Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Observes and evaluates animal condition, behavior and responses and communicates observations orally and on written reports
- Prepares and feeds appropriate diets, noting conformance of foods provided to diets prescribed for each animal
- Administers prescribed medications and dietary supplements and monitors food and medicine consumption
- Checks on integrity of enclosures and structures, ensuring safety and welfare of animals, Zoo visitors, and staff in accordance with established guidelines
- Maintains live plants within enclosures ensuring neat, attractive exhibits
- Performs minor repairs and preventative maintenance as necessary
- Maintains clean and organized exhibits, equipment, and keeper areas
- Improves the quality of life of the animal collection by providing environmental and behavioral enrichment opportunities
- Trains selected animals through operant conditioning for purposes of gaining cooperation for veterinary treatment and/or public demonstrations
- Installs exhibit furnishings, props, and decorations safely, attractively and in a manner consistent with Zoo guidelines
Education and Experience
- One year of experience in animal care in a zoo setting or under the direction of a licensed veterinarian is required, which may be gained through internships, volunteer experience, or employment
- Extensive domestic animal experience may qualify for substitution for exotic animal management experience
- Specific training and work experience in other settings, such as aquaculture, schools, nature centers, agricultural operations, or conservation centers may be considered on a case-by-case basis as fulfillment for the experience requirements
- Starting salary will be a function of the levels of experience and relevant post-high school education
About Houston Zoo
- The Houston Zoo is made up of many moving parts with over 6,000 permanent residents (our animals) for whom we provide housing, meals, medical care and yes, even education!
- There are over 2 million guests each year who come to experience our incredible variety of animals and ecosystems, as well as attend special private and public events and entertainment.
- Our dedicated staff works around the clock to ensure that the Zoo is always running smoothly for the safety and well-being of our residents and guests.
- We strive to ensure the protection of all the counterparts of the animals we have at the Zoo and in the wild.
- Join the Houston Zoo and become a part of an organization that is focused on the preservation of wildlife and their habitats by combining conservation with education and promotion of sustainable livelihoods in the local communities. Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
