Zookeeper - Louisiana Swamp and Jaguar Jungle

Reporting directly to the Assistant Curator of an assigned area, and under the general supervision of the Curator. Zookeepers perform routine zookeeper duties; work under minimal supervision in a wide range of functions includes training and behavioral enrichment. 

• This position is primarily focused on Central and South American species that include Seba Bats, small mammals, alpaca, reptile, amphibians and insects. 
• This position will have the opportunity to cross-train in the Louisiana Swamp and Jaguar Jungle in order to provide additional coverage if needed.
• The preferred candidate will have excellent time management skills, organization skills and attention to detail.
• A background in varied taxa husband is strongly desired.
• The ability to work with and around dangerous animals, including carnivores and alligators is required. A proven safety record is a must.
• A love for Louisiana and its culture is a must!
• This position offers the opportunity to develop and grow in animal training and welfare, with access to webinars and consultations.
• This position can be offered at a Senior Keeper level with 6 years of relevant experience!

To deliver on the Audubon mission, the Zookeeper will: 

• Provide a guest experience of outstanding quality.
• A strong willingness to engage our guests about the Audubon Zoo’s mission statement. Looks to have genuine conversations about the animals under your care, conservation, wildlife, and take-home messages.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment to evaluate any emergency situations that arise with our guests.
• Weave quality entertainment through the guest experience.
• Willingness to present highly engaging educational programs as assigned.
• Participates in shows/chats/feeds for our guests on a daily basis.
• Conducts behind-the-scenes tours for VIP’s, donors, and Audubon Education programs as scheduled.
• Ability to provide guest paid BTS encounters with the animals under your care.
• Extensive interaction with the public which may include on and off grounds educational and media presentations.
• Enhance the care and survival of wildlife through research and conservation.
• Identifies and corrects minor or routine maintenance problems and reports other maintenance needs directly to supervisor(s).
• Performs and initiates behavior modification and behavioral enrichment programs in assigned areas as designated by supervisor and team(s).
• Observes general animal health and behavior on a daily basis and reports any abnormal situations to a supervisor(s).
• Maintains daily records of health and behavior status of animals in designated area as directed.
• Prepares and follows prescribed diets and feeding procedures as directed by supervisor(s).
• Will assist in training new personnel in methods of animal care consistent with policies and procedures. 
• Will value the contribution of every team member. 
• May assist in the selection, training, supervision, evaluation, and assignment of volunteers as needed.
• Will assist in developing new facilities and improving existing ones as assigned by supervisor(s).
• Composes technical reports on various aspects of captive animal management and exhibition as assigned by supervisor(s).
• Participates in capturing, restraining, and moving animals and shares techniques with other team members.
• Assists veterinary and curatorial staff in treating animals as assigned and prescribed.
• Makes decisions consistent with Audubon policies and procedures when required.
• Performs daily duties in all sections of assigned department as required.
• Strong skills in time management.
• Takes initiative by leading co-workers, Interns and Volunteers in coordinating and leading group projects.
• Brings a positive attitude and is accountable for their actions.
• Takes personal responsibility for their surroundings.
• Displays actions that are moral and ethical.
• Looks to provide alternate solutions whenever possible.   
• The above listed duties are general statements of required major duties and responsibilities performed on a regular and continuous basis.  They do not exclude other duties as assigned.

To deliver on the Audubon service promise, the Zookeeper will:

• Welcome
• Makes eye contact with every customer encounter, smile at every person, offer friendly phrases and greetings.
• Wears identification badge and follows dress code. Maintains a camera-ready appearance. 
• Walks guests to destination instead of pointing; offer assistance to people whenever possible.
• Assumes ownership of potential safety hazards (wipe-up spill, pick up trash).  
• Share
• Engages team members and guests in a positive manner at all times. 
• Utilizes the power of teamwork to give excellent service.
• Knows when to involve the management team. 
• Inspire
• Strives to share their passion and experiences for the conservation of wildlife.
• Displays an attitude of gratitude.
• Empowered to take ownership of opportunities to exceed expectations.

Experience: 

• Diverse and strong knowledge of the principles of captive exotic animal management.
• Water quality testing experience or willingness to learn. 
• Life support system experience or willingness to learn.
• Strong knowledge of zoonotic diseases and prevention.
• Strong ability to exercise sound judgment to evaluate each animal’s health, diet, behavior, and any emergency situations that arise.
• Considerable experience in the care, restraint, and handling of exotic animals.
• Excellent safety track record. 
• Strong knowledge on exhibitory techniques, such as perching.
• Strong knowledge of animal training and application.

Education: 

• High School degree or equivalent
• Accurate oral and written communication skills
• College credits in Biology or related field
• Bachelor’s degree in related field preferred

Licensure/Certification:

• Must maintain a valid La. Driver’s License
• Current TB test
• Current Tetanus shot
• Current rabies vaccinations as required by department (Audubon Institute to cover if hired)
• Must be Covid vaccinated

Software Requirements:  

• Proficiency in computer processing
• Machinery/Tools/Equipment Requirements:  
• Ability to learn and operate medium and heavy equipment as needed.
• Ability and willingness to operate power tools, lawn equipment, etc.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work outdoors in extreme weather patterns, including heat, humidity and heavy rain.
• Sitting or standing, bending, stooping, and per OSHA regulations:  Heavy work involving lifting no more than 100 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or carrying objects weighing up to 50 pounds.  
• Risk periodic exposure to fairly predictable and controllable hazards associated with wild animal and zoonotic diseases.
• Ability to work in a nocturnal setting. 

Environmental/Working Conditions:

• Ability to work effectively and positively on a team and with volunteers.
• Daily cleaning of animal habitats and grounds.
• Maintains off-exhibit areas in a clean and organized manner. 
• Ability to work weekends and holidays, including overtime and be available based on special needs/circumstances on a 24- hour basis.
• Willing to perform Pest Control duties as necessary.
• Willingness to serve on the zoo’s Hurricane Team.
• Must be comfortable with basic paddle boat operation and working around water.
• Ensures work area is free of food, drink, unnecessary socialization, and personal business