What are the responsibilities and job description for the Keeper position at Gladys Porter Zoo?
The Gladys Porter Zoo is a visitor-oriented zoological and botanical park, dedicated to the preservation of nature through education, conservation, healthy outdoor recreation and research.
Located at the southern tip of Texas, it was opened in 1971 as a breeding center for endangered species and to promote an appreciation and understanding of wildlife, as well as the need to conserve it.
The Zoo is owned by the City of Brownsville and managed by the Valley Zoological Society.
The Gladys Porter Zoo is seeking a full-time (40 hours per week) zoo keeper in the Herpetology Department. Herpetology keepers carry out the daily care of assigned reptiles and amphibians, which includes cleaning, feeding, watering, and observing animals, as well as providing training and enrichment.
The Gladys Porter Zoo’s Herp Department currently houses nearly 100 species of reptiles & amphibians, including a large and diverse venomous snake collection, seven species of crocodilians, Galapagos tortoises, komodo dragons, and many more.
RESPONSIBILITIES :
- Directly responsible for daily animal husbandry, including cleaning, feeding, training and enrichment
- Observes animals for medical issues and reports accordingly to the Associate Curator
- Maintains an accurate record of animals in section, including animal welfare and enrichment reports
- Performs routine maintenance in assigned areas, including painting, grass cutting, tree trimming, etc.
Experience Required
- One year’s experience working with reptiles and amphibians required
- One year experience in an AZA accredited facility, or professional zoological institution preferred
- Husbandry experience with venomous snakes is preferred
Further Comments
JOB REQUIREMENTS :
- Must be physically fit and able to bend, kneel, climb, and lift 50 lbs.
- Must have excellent powers of observation
- Must be able to work in varying weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, etc.)
- Bachelor’s Degree in Biology or a related field preferred. Years of tenure can be substituted for a degree.
Perks
100% employer-paid health, vision, dental and life insurance; Paid time off : vacation, holidays and sick leave; Friendly co-workers .
join our family! Zoo-friendly community; No traffic jams on the freeways; Extremely low cost-of-living!!
Salary
Commensurate with experience
Last updated : 2024-05-16