What are the responsibilities and job description for the ZOO KEEPER position at City of Jackson?
ZOO KEEPER
Zoo Keeper (FULL-TIME)
Duties: Monitoring animal health, behavior, appetite, and overall condition throughout the day. Maintaining accurate daily records on health, behavior, training, enrichment, and feeding. Preparing and providing daily diets according to species specific nutritional guidelines. Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures, holding areas, and workspaces to meet sanitation and safety standards. Following all safety protocols. Inspecting enclosures and habitats for hazards, wear, or malfunction and reporting issues promptly.
Minimum Training and Experience
• High School diploma or equivalent
• Ability to work in a team environment
• Solid communication skills, verbal and written
• Valid driver’s license/reliable transportation
• Ability to stand for long periods of time and lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to work a varied schedule, including weekends and holidays
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
Ability: Designing and rotating enrichment activities that stimulate natural behaviors. Implementing approved training programs using positive reinforcement to assist with husbandry and veterinary procedures. Speaking with visitors during keeper chats, demonstrations, or tours. Answering questions about animals, conservation, and the Jackson Zoo’s mission. Assisting with special events, educational programs, or media when assigned. Collaborating with other keepers, veterinarian tech, veterinarian, and maintenance staff. Transporting animals safely when needed and permitted by protocols. Setting up or maintaining exhibit furnishings (logs, climbing structures, water features, etc.). Reporting supply needs and helping maintain inventory for diets, enrichment, and cleaning materials. Supporting conservation initiatives and data collection when applicable.
PRIOR TO EMPLOYMENT, APPLICANT RECOMMENDED FOR EMPLOYMENT SHALL BE REQUIRED TO SUCCESSFULLY PASS A DRUG TEST AND BACKGROUND CHECK
“EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER”
Position : 1003-4018
Code : 0116
Type : INTERNAL & EXTERNAL
Location : JACKSON ZOO
Group : PARKS AND RECREATION
Job Class : ZOO KEEPER
Posting Start : 01/21/2026
Posting End : 12/31/9999
Details : CITY WEBSITE
MINIMUM HOURLY RATE: $13.61
Position : 10034018
Code : 418-2
Type : INTERNAL & EXTERNAL
Location : JACKSON ZOO
Grade : PAY RANGE 16
Group : PARKS AND
Job Class : ZOOKEEPER
Posting Start : 01/22/2026
Posting End : 12/31/9999
Details : City Website
HOURLY RATE RANGE: $12.72-$15.26
Salary : $13 - $15