Ark Encounter Hoofstock Zookeeper Full Time

The Ararat Ridge Zoo at the Ark Encounter exists to be a world-class zoo providing guests with experiences and education that inspire a biblical understanding of creation, highlight the purpose of God's design, and promote stewardship of creation. Applicants should have a strong background and experience working with hoofstock animals (exotic hoofstock experience preferred), a basic understanding of animal health care and husbandry techniques, an awareness of animal enrichment, ability to perform vigorous physical activities both indoors and outdoors under all weather conditions and enjoy interacting with guests.

This position will allow one to impact others through a service mindset centered on making an eternal difference. This position should display our Core Values of SERVE (Serve, Equip, Relate, Value, Engage) when interfacing with both internal and external customers to ensure that the message and mission of Answers in Genesis is portrayed in an effective and God-honoring fashion. This position provides opportunities for spiritual, personal, and professional development. 

Responsibilities

• Promote the mission and standards of Answers in Genesis.
• Create a SERVE culture environment in all work done. 
• Approach all tasks with a second mile mindset.
• Prioritize personal integrity in all interactions and assignments. 
• Guest engagement within the zoo and greater attraction
• Responsible for the care of hoofstock that may include camelids, zebroids, donkeys, goats, sheep, and aoudads
• Responsible for animal husbandry including:
  • Habitat cleaning and upkeep
  • Diet preparation and distribution
  • Record data on animal care system
  • Plan and schedule environmental enrichment based on behavioral goals
  • Participate in operant conditioning for husbandry behaviors
  • And additional husbandry tasks as assigned
• Ensure safety of guests, animals, and fellow staff members in performance of job
  • Ensure designated areas are clean and free of clutter
  • Follow all SOPs to ensure safe day-to-day operation of the zoo
  • Follow all state and federal animal welfare regulations (USDA)
• Ability to work holidays and weekends
• And all other duties and responsibilities assigned by management.

Requirements

• Must agree with and be able to sign our Statement of Faith.
• Maintains a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
• Regularly attends a local Bible-believing church.
• Availability to work weekends and holidays
• Must have minimum of one year of work in animal care environment and/or pursuing associate or bachelor’s degree in zoology or related field.
• Bend and lift up to 50 pounds. 
• Must be at least 18 years of age or older.
• To operate ministry trucks and vehicles must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Must be able to stand and move about throughout the attraction for the entire length of shift.
• Perform duties in varied temperatures and weather conditions throughout the attraction (e.g., extreme heat/cold, wind, rain, snow).

Education & Experience

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in zoology or related field preferred
• 2 years’ experience working in an animal care field

Items Needed for Possible Employment

• Completion of on-line application, https://answersingenesis.org   
• Salary Requirements 
• Salvation Testimony  
• Creation Belief Statement 
• Confirmation of your agreement with the AiG Statement of Faith (AiG Statement of Faith can be found on the website).  https://answersingenesis.org/about/faith/
• Completion of a Background Check and Pre-Employment Drug Screen  
• Completion of a Motor Vehicle Report