Zookeeper III, Herpetology & Entomology

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. 
• Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Disclaimer 

• The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed;
• it is not intended to be construed as a complete inventory of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position.   
• This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position.
• Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor.   
• Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities.
• To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an at-will basis.