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Zookeeper Elephants

Ellen Trout Zoo
Houston, United States Posted: September 08, 2024


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.

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