Animal Care Specialist - Animal Ambassadors

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Help drive a growing animal training program for guest engagement and interactions.
• Provide innovative animal husbandry that follows AZA and USDA standards.
• Maintain proper animal enclosures/props/exhibits and Life Support Systems where appropriate.
• Capture, handle, and move animals using accepted DZCA practices to facilitate internal movement, external shipping, medical procedures, or normal routines.
• Monitoring of physical and behavioral aspects of the animals under assigned care.
• Record data and prepare assigned reports/records (i.e., daily reports, enclosure logs, facility logs, water quality logs, etc.) and other pertinent data on the collection and facilities as required.

Collaboration

• Work closely with other team members to achieve area goals and expectations.
• Train fellow keepers, interns, and volunteers in standard section routines.
• Cooperate and coordinate with other departments (e.g., education, maintenance, horticulture) and outside contractors.
• Maintain professional working relationships with zoo team members.
• Participate in conservation and research projects as assigned.
• Participate in and support zoo-wide initiatives, committees, and workgroups.

Guest Experience

• Interact with DZCA guests in both formal and informal settings, providing insight into the animals and their care.
• Provide area behind-the-scenes tours, daily guest interactions, keeper talks, and special events in areas of responsibility as needed.
• Participate in educational programs as assigned.
• Maintain a professional appearance, following uniform guidelines.

Facilities and Operations

• Respond to zoo-wide animal-related emergencies.
• Coordinate the efforts of contractors and maintenance staff when they are working in animal areas.
• Follow DZCA safety protocols.
• Demonstrate a commitment to DZCA Occupational Health, Safety, Environmental & Sustainability Policies by adhering to all environmental, safety, & health regulations, procedures, and goals.

Technical/Professional Requirements & Qualifications

• A total of 6 years combined experience between education AND zookeeper experience in the care, feeding, and handling of a variety of exotic animals in an AZA-accredited institution.
• Degree in Zoo Animal Technology, Biology, or a science-based field, or animal behavior/psychology required, or in a related field.
• Zookeeper experience in the care, feeding, and handling of a variety of exotic animals in an AZA-accredited institution.
• Ability, with proper training, to work in all aspects of animal care, husbandry, and training within the department in which the individual is assigned.
• Work on weekends and holidays is required.
• Operate a variety of light and medium equipment.

Position Conditions

• Ability to pass a physical examination, background check, and pre-employment drug and alcohol screen.
• Clear driving record.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Negative TB Test.
• Rabies titer.

Compensation

The range for this position is $24.20 - $28.90 (hourly).

We Are Looking For You!

If you're excited to contribute your skills in a collaborative and innovative environment, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is the place for you!

Application Process & Timelines

Resumes / Completed applications must be submitted by July 9, 2026. Review of applications will begin immediately. DZCA reserves the right to close the position before this date.

About the Role

The Animal Care Specialist - Animal Ambassadors role will support the DZCA mission by ensuring the safe handling, feeding, husbandry and training of the Zoo's Animal Ambassador collection.

Qualifications

A degree in Zoo Animal Technology, Biology, or a science-based field, or animal behavior/psychology required, or in a related field.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
• 403(b) Retirement Account with employer match
• Generous paid time off: vacation, sick leave, personal days, and holidays
• A Family DZCA Membership with discounted tickets to special events
• Concession and retail discounts, plus free parking
• And so much more!