What are the responsibilities and job description for the Elephant Keeper position at Indianapolis Zoo?
If you have a passion for animal conservation and experience working with African or Asian elephants, look no further, your career is at the Indianapolis Zoo! We are currently seeking an Elephant Keeper to join our team. This position is primarily responsible for all aspects of the elephants' well-being and care, developing and implementing enrichment activities, and participating in research, education, and training. We have a progressive and internationally respected elephant program and have conducted pioneering research in training, reproduction, and artificial insemination.
The ideal candidate is committed to the Zoo's mission to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world. To be successful in this role, you must have at least two (2) years of experience working at a zoo or animal care organization. Prior professional experience working with African or Asian elephants is required. This position requires flexibility to work cohesively within a small team as well as the ability to work differing shifts including overtime, weekends, and holidays.
What You'll Do
- Assist with research projects and exhibit modifications.
- Develop and implement enrichment activities.
- Husbandry - including preparing diets and cleaning animal exhibit and holding areas.
- Complete department specific skills training list, medical behavior skills list and Core Component Training List.
- Prepare and read Keeper Daily Reports and Area Records as directed by the Assistant Curator.
- Assist with training Keeper staff as directed by the Assistant Curator.
- Train and direct volunteers, seasonal employees, and interns as directed by the Assistant Curator.
- Assist in Plains area as needed.
- Act immediately on issues of safety or security as it relates to animals, visitors and staff as related to level of experience.
- Participate and develop behind-the-scenes tours with elephant greets and paintings.
- Create memorable experiences for our guests.
What We're Looking For
- Must have at least one (1) year work experience working with Asian or African elephants and at least two (2) years' experience working in a zoo or other animal care institution.
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited college/ university in Life Sciences, Zoology, or a related field is required.
- Must have good observational and interpretation skills of elephant behavior.
- Must be temperamentally suited to working with animals, especially specific animals in designated department.
- Basic understanding of operant training.
- Ability to transport and move items, exerting at least 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/ or up to 50 pounds of force frequently.
- Ability to ascend/ descend ladders, steps, and uneven terrain, while maintaining body equilibrium to perform various jobs.
- Valid driver's license and driving record that is insurable by our carrier.
Bonus Points
- Prior experience with breeding programs and/or herd breeding is highly desired.
- Prior experience working with elephant births and calves is preferred.
Why the Indianapolis Zoo?
Join a mission-driven team where your passion for elephants will help make a global impact. As a unique institution encompassing as a zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden, the Indianapolis Zoo offers an inspiring environment for innovation, education, and conservation.
Employment at the Indianapolis Zoo is contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment testing including a background check, motor vehicle check (if applicable) and a drug test.