Zookeeper

Observe condition of assigned area(s), animal enclosures, and equipment.  Monitor and clean public space(s), plants, and interpretive as assigned.

DUTIES

• Observation, handling, cleaning, feeding (often involving some food preparation from written instructions) and husbandry of captive animals.
• Observe assigned animals closely, routinely, and objectively report to supervisor on their behavior, health and welfare.
• Observe condition of assigned area(s), animal enclosures, and equipment.  Monitor and clean public space(s), plants, and interpretive as assigned.
• Participates in training and operant conditioning and follows standardized reporting mechanisms.
• Cleans and maintains animal exhibit areas, performs basic horticulture work within exhibit and disinfects animal enclosures.
• Observes and reports maintenance needs of equipment, exhibits, buildings, and grounds; correction of minor maintenance needs.
• Assist in restraining, crating, moving, and unloading of animals; occasionally, accompany animals in transit.
• Assist in setting up animal exhibits.
• Assist veterinarian or veterinary technician when required.
• Use medicines and chemical cleaners according to instructions and/or standardized usage guidelines and safety information as set by the Material Data Sheets.
• Participate in zookeeper training and educational programs as required.  Make suggestions to improve the accomplishments of Zoo objectives.
• Responsible for the care, proper use and protection of equipment and property.
• Communicate with and assist guests.  Take initiative to facilitate guests’ appreciation of animals and enjoyment of their visit.
• Perform other related work as required.

SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE

• Must possess an understanding of practical principles of animal behavior and the ability to work with live animals safely.
• Strong working knowledge of the principles and techniques of biology, zoology, animal husbandry, or related work. 
• Must demonstrate the ability to increase knowledge of natural history, zoology, and general animal husbandry of the species and individual animals in area(s) of experience.
• Perform area routines proficiently.  Continue developing proficiency in specialized procedures.  Must possess a record of consistency and accuracy in performing job duties.
• Must be capable of dealing with emergencies calmly and efficiently.
• Must be able to read and understand written instructions, write clear reports and requisitions, and fill out Zoo records and forms.
• Maintains accurate, up-to-date records (e.g. daily, monthly) on the animal collection making use of the computer programs provided.  Basic computer literacy required.
• Knowledge of proper dietary and medical care for various animals.
• Ability to perform all tasks required of Zookeepers; deal effectively with animals, the public and other Zoo employees, maintain orderly, clear records and files.
• Skill to follow written and oral technical animal management procedures.  Understand, foresee and apply safety precautions applicable to the work.
• Skill to exercise good judgment and tact in evaluating situations and making decisions, skill to lead, give instructions and check the work of others (supervisory assignments only).
• Must possess good oral and written communication skills to record and present data generated in daily activities and research projects.
• Need good physical strength and stamina; skill to operate mechanical power equipment; licensed to drive a vehicle; willingness to accept regular weekend, holiday, and occasional after-hours assignments.

Experience Required

• Bachelor of Science Degree in the Applied Sciences, Animal Sciences, Agriculture, Biology, Zoology or relevant field required and one year of paid zoo animal keeping or related animal care experience. 
• In lieu of a Bachelor Degree, four years of paid zoo animal care or related animal care experience and two years of college level courses in Biological Sciences required.

Salary

• $21.65/hour