Animal Programs Swing Keeper

About the Role

This position is responsible for maintaining and caring for a variety of animals within the Zoo, assisting veterinary staff as needed, and performing activities relative to a rotating area of assignment as staffing needs dictate. The Senior Mammal Curator will manage the work schedule for this position.

Responsibilities

• Feed and water animals in and around existing quarters; clean, sanitize, maintain, and repair animal quarters as required; shovel, rake, hose, sweep, dust, and mop floors
• Prepare diets for animals; clean and maintain work area and food storage containers
• Maintain adequate records on daily activities; observe animal behavior for signs of illness, weight loss/gain, or injury; report any signs of illness or injury
• Assist veterinarians in minor operations or related activity, administer prescribed medications, submit fecal samples, and other duties as needed
• Assist in the training of assigned animals; guide animals through daily routines according to established training schedules and guidelines
• Carry out animal diet directives from Nutritional Services Department; clean and maintain food storage containers
• Participate in the zoo-wide behavioral management program by implementing approved animal training and enrichment projects
• Participate in and implement approved research projects
• Respond to public inquiries in a courteous manner; resolve complaints in an efficient and timely manner; present keeper talks to park visitors and media as required
• Feed live prey and/or euthanize some prey items as related to the requirements of specific taxa
• Assist in directing the proper restraint, crating, moving, and uncrating of animals
• Properly maintain exhibits, animal facilities, equipment, and life support systems (as apply) as trained for specific positions

Requirements

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Must have multiple years of zoo keeping experience
• Valid driver license with acceptable motor vehicle record to maintain zoo standards of insurability

Must possess ability to:

• Work independently in the absence of immediate supervision
• Work a varied schedule of work area assignment
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships
• Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Bachelor’s degree in wildlife management, zoology, animal behavior, biology, ecology, psychology, or related field preferred
• Specialized training in zoology or a related field desirable but not required

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 75 pounds.

Work Environment

• Team-oriented environment
• Ability to work irregular hours (holidays and weekends)
• Exposure to a variety of domestic and wild or potentially dangerous animals; animal odors and animal body fluids
• Exposure to all types of inclement weather conditions
• Exposure to chemicals (cleaning, water chemicals, additives, etc.)
• Ability to work special events and functions as required
• This position may be safety sensitive
• This position may work around animals susceptible to specific diseases, thus may be subject to regular tuberculosis and rabies titer testing, and the routine use of personal protective equipment such as gloves, face masks

Benefits

• Medical and Prescription Drug (Employee Coverage 90% Employer Paid, Dependent Coverage 55% Employer Paid)
• Vision
• Dental
• Basic Life AD&D (100% Employer Paid)
• Short Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Long Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Supplemental Life
• Flexible Spending Account
• 401k
• Paid Time Off (Accrual Equivalent to 5 Weeks Per Year)
• PTO Rollover
• PTO Sell Back
• Free Zoo Membership
• Free Guest Passes
• Discounts on Food, Merchandise, Attractions, Admission, and Programs