What are the responsibilities and job description for the Zookeeper, Full-Time position at BINDER PARK ZOO?
ZOOKEEPER
Mission Statement: To Connect, Inspire, Conserve. Connect people with nature. Inspire them to conserve.
REPORTS TO: Collections Supervisor
SEASONAL/NON-SEASONAL: Non-seasonal, Benefited
FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-Exempt
POSITION SUMMARY:
To assist the zoo in accomplishing its mission while providing daily care of a variety of exotic and domestic animals.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS:
Mission Statement: To Connect, Inspire, Conserve. Connect people with nature. Inspire them to conserve.
REPORTS TO: Collections Supervisor
SEASONAL/NON-SEASONAL: Non-seasonal, Benefited
FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-Exempt
POSITION SUMMARY:
To assist the zoo in accomplishing its mission while providing daily care of a variety of exotic and domestic animals.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
- Four year related degree OR a two year related degree AND two years’ paid experience in an animal related field.
- Minimum one year experience caring for captive wildlife in a zoo setting.
- Experience working with giraffe, African hoofstock and / or primates a plus.
- Excellent communication, judgment and record keeping skills.
- Possessing a strong interest in working with animals and people.
- Proof of negative TB test within one year and proof of tetanus shot within ten years.
- Daily cleaning, feeding, and observing a group of potentially dangerous animals in a designated area.
- Implement animal behavioral programs (operant conditioning/enrichment).
- Maintaining accurate records.
- Daily informing supervisor and veterinarian on physical and behavioral health of the animals in their areas.
- Responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of exhibits, guest viewing areas and animal holding areas.
- Assisting with veterinary procedures as needed.
- Complying with all AZA and USDA standards and regulations.
- Relate positively with diverse groups of people, including guests, staff, volunteers and vendors.
- Providing assistance to co-workers, zoo attendants, interns and volunteers when needed.
- Responsible for giving keeper talks.
- Complying with safety regulations when handling hazardous materials.
- Interacting positively with guests and providing assistance when needed.
- Complying with all Binder Park Zoo policies and procedures.
- Participating in team oriented zoo projects as needed.
PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS:
- Ability to work long hours on a flexible schedule including weekends, evenings, holidays and emergencies.
- Ability to read, speak and write English in order to fulfill job functions in an understandable way.
- Ability to lift and carry 50 lbs.
- Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and in a physically demanding environment.