Zookeeper

About the Role

Under the direction of the Animal Care Manager, assist in stewardship of the Animal Care department, supporting the mission and core values of the Zoo.

Responsibilities

• Perform all Zookeeper duties necessary to maintain high standards of animal care and welfare.
• Maintain familiarity with all husbandry duties.
• Provide feedback regarding Animal Care protocols, procedures, and area SOPs.
• Observe animals to determine their physical, psychological, and social well-being; report same to the Senior Zookeeper(s) and Animal Care Manager.
• Inspect all exhibits and related facilities regularly for cleanliness and structural integrity.
• Maintain areas in compliance with USDA and AZA standards; report potential non-compliance issues.
• Assist with the health care of collection animals by assessing and reporting medical needs.
• Assist the Vet Technician with the administration of medical treatments including oral, topical, and injectable medications, including the use of operant conditioning to facilitate treatment.
• Monitor and report veterinary concerns; assist veterinary staff in medical treatments, procedures, and surgeries as needed.
• Coordinate with Facilities to execute repairs, non-capital renovations, and modifications.
• Identify any potential maintenance or safety issues and take necessary steps to correct or resolve them.
• Perform repairs, renovations, and modifications directly related to animal wellbeing.
• Ensure proper records are maintained, including but not limited to: ZIMS, daily logs, Training records, Enrichment logs.
• Collaborate in development and modification of diets, husbandry techniques, and area protocols.
• Assist with ordering and maintaining inventory of feeds, supplies, and equipment.
• Interact with outside vendors and suppliers in cooperation with Animal Care Manager.
• Assist in planning and completion of Animal Care staff projects.
• Coordinate projects with other departments and outside vendors, ensuring scheduling efficiency and maximizing safety, while maintaining positive wellbeing for animals and staff.
• Recognize and report pest control needs in the area; coordinate and execute adequate and appropriate pest control practices; maintain records of pest control.
• Research, develop, and implement species- and individual-specific Operant Conditioning (Training) and Enrichment programs.
• Conduct annual animal welfare assessments.
• Aid in reviewing assessments and developing improvement and action plans to constantly improve animal welfare.
• Assist in planning and implementation of programs and events directly related to or impacting the animal collection.
• Participate with PR team for interviews, tours, media requests, and guest experiences as needed.
• Participate in discussions regarding capital improvements, exhibit design, and Master & Collection Plans.
• Chair or sit as a member of various zoo committees as assigned.
• Participate in the development and performance of keeper training classes for interns and staff.
• Train and mentor Seasonal Zookeepers, Laborers, interns, and volunteers.
• Function as an AZA Institutional Representative (IR) as directed.
• Support and/or participate in in situ and ex situ conservation programs.
• Serve as a member of the MPZ Animal Emergency Response Team (weapons team is voluntary).
• Adhere to and support all zoo policies and procedures.

Requirements

• Basic knowledge of the care, nutrition, breeding, behavior, and safety precautions for the species held in the zoological collection.
• Knowledge of zoo industry standards, guidelines, and regulations.
• Working knowledge of animal training, enrichment, and welfare theories and applications.
• Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills to develop/implement solution-based plans/goals.
• Communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Use word processing, spreadsheet, internet, email software, and other applications as needed for appropriate communication and record-keeping.
• Train and supervise interns, volunteers, and new staff.
• Understand and accurately observe, assess, and record animal behavior; monitor and provide for excellent animal wellbeing.
• Demonstrate flexibility in thought and actions, ensuring a progressive, dynamic work environment.
• Maintain a professional attitude while representing the Miller Park Zoo.
• Provide excellent guest experiences.
• Embody DEIA principles described in MPZ and City policies.
• Basic ability to repair and maintain zoo equipment, animal habitats, and facilities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in Biology, Zoology, or related field, or Associate’s Degree from an accredited college specializing in Zoo and Aquaria programming.
• 2+ years AZA paid progressive work experience, including husbandry, training, enrichment, and welfare of zoo animals is preferred.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Physical Requirements

• Work is performed in both indoor and outdoor environments.
• Position requirements will occur in humid conditions and in a range of outdoor temperatures.
• Ability to lift/move/carry up to 50 lbs.
• Annual TB testing is required (may include chest x-rays).

Certificate or Licenses: Driver’s License