Temporary Zookeeper I Birds - Part-time

The Virginia Zoo in Norfolk is seeking to hire an enthusiastic and experienced Temporary Zookeeper I Birds.  Zookeeper positions play an essential role in animal care, welfare and ensuring safe working environments at the zoo where we maintain many rare, endangered and potentially dangerous animals. This position works in a team environment that plays a critical part of maintaining good standards of animal care, presentation and customer service to nearly 500,000 visitors to the zoo each year. This position will be assigned to primarily work on the Bird team with animals housed within the bird section but may be required to work in any of the Animal Care areas as needed.

The Virginia Zoological Park is committed to saving and protecting the world's wildlife by inspiring a passion for nature and taking conservation action at home and around the world.


Essential functions include but are not limited to:

• Observes animals, checking for medical problems, changes in behavior, feeding habits, and overall well-being.

• Feeds animals as specified by curatorial and veterinary staff in accordance with nutritional and behavioral requirements.

• Cleans, disinfects and maintains animal exhibits, enclosures, food and water dishes, pools and other areas.

• Keeps daily records on each animal (behavioral observations, and exhibit integrity and maintenance, etc.).

• Supervises interns when required.

• Conducts animal demonstrations for zoo visitors and writes educational presentations.  

• Must be able to handle and assist in the restraint and capture of animals.

• Must be able to lift heavy feed and manure receptacles and walk long distances.

• Must have knowledge of behavioral characteristics and handling procedures for assigned animals.

• Must have knowledge of animal restraint apparatus such as ropes, squeeze cages, catch poles, shifts, nets etc.

• Must be able to use tools and operate small equipment.

• Requires normal hearing and seeing capabilities and the ability to stand, bend, lift, stoop, push and pull.

• Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing and work in a team environment.

• Must work in a friendly and professional manner with staff, volunteers, colleagues and zoo visitors.

• Other duties as assigned.

Completion of a 4-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or an associate’s degree specifically in zoo keeping from a college program specializing in zookeeping and wildlife management.

A minimum of three months’ experience working in an AZA accredited institution as a zookeeper, paid zookeeper intern, or similar position.

• Valid Driver's License