Animal Keeper

In-Sync Exotics Wildlife Rescue & Educational Center is looking for a full-time animal keeper. In-Sync Exotics is a non-profit organization located in Wylie, Texas. We were founded in 2000 and are dedicated to the rescue of neglected, abused and unwanted exotic felines. We currently have over 80 cats, including lions, tigers, cougars, leopards and other smaller exotic cats, along with lemurs and some domestic animals. The goal of In-Sync Exotics is to provide these animals with appropriate housing and nutrition, enrichment, and state of the art medical and surgical care.  

SUMMARY: Under general supervision, this position has responsibility for the care, welfare and safety of the animals at In-Sync Exotics. Maintains the physical enclosures, surroundings and environment of the animals. Answers questions and gives information to the visiting public. Trains and supervises volunteers and interns.  

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Cleans and maintains enclosures; removes animal excrement and food remnants; hoses and sweeps as necessary; scrubs animal areas; climbs ramps and platforms; cleans pools, tubs and water containers; changes bedding as necessary.
• Prepares animal diets; loads and unloads food items; maintains food storage areas; completes meat rotation.
• Cleans and maintains non-animal areas, such as the commissary and supply storage areas.
• Learns the procedures for feeding, enrichment and training cats.
• Observes behavior of animals on both a day-to-day and long-term basis; notes and reports any unusual behavior, signs of injury or illness, change in appetite, etc.  
• Assists in administering medication or other treatments for illness or injury as directed.
• Trains volunteers, interns and new staff members.
• Completes required logs with all pertinent information.
• Answers questions and gives information regarding our animals, our operations, our sanctuary and other areas of concern to our organization to the visiting public. Observes the public to prevent acts that could disturb the animals. Works in the Visitor Center as needed.
• Assists in loading and unloading animals and transports as necessary.
• Makes minor repairs to equipment and facilities as necessary.
• Provides assistance with construction and grounds maintenance projects.
• Interacts with all visitors, staff members, volunteers and interns with courtesy, respect and professionalism.
• Serves as Lead in the absence of the Lead Keeper when necessary.
• Other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION: High school diploma or GED required. Associates' or bachelor’s degree in an animal-related field strongly preferred.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE: Must have completed an internship with In-Sync Exotics, or have one year of experience working with exotic animals. This may include volunteer work and internships.  

DESIRED EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS: One year experience working with predators, exotic cats strongly preferred.