What are the responsibilities and job description for the Primates Keeper - Full Time position at Indianapolis Zoo?
The Indianapolis Zoo's Primates department is searching for a keeper to join our growing team! This position will primarily care for our chimpanzee, orangutan, baboon, gibbon, macaque, and tamarin residents. Duties include cleaning and maintaining animal environments, preparing and distributing daily enrichment, observing animal behavior, participating in positive reinforcement training, ensuring optimal animal welfare, supporting a variety of research activities, and educating zoo guests.
The ideal candidate is committed to advancing the Zoo's mission to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world. Prior experience in the animal care profession, preferably a zoological setting, is required. Prior experience working with Primates is highly desired. This is a full-time, 40 hours per week position that requires availability to work weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed. Strong observational and communication skills (both verbal and written), as well as a team-oriented attitude are essential.
Working with Primates requires a specialized skillset and physical abilities that include but are not limited to:
- One (1) year of prior related work experience.
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited college/ university in Zoology, Biology, or a related field is required.
- Demonstrates patience, gentleness, respect, and consistency with animals in their care.
- Assists with developing and implementing area chats, feeds, demonstrations and behind the scenes tours.
- Completes daily husbandry tasks and recordkeeping.
- Assists with exhibit modifications and repairs. Previous experience with tools is desirable.
- Displays a professional attitude and appearance to visitors, volunteers, and co-workers.
- Ability to transport and move items, exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and up to 50 pounds of force frequently.
- Ability to ascend/ descend ladders, steps and uneven terrain, while maintaining body equilibrium to perform various jobs.
- Ability to work comfortably at heights, and operate a scissor lift as necessary.
- Ability to detect, assess, identify, and observe surroundings to make sound judgments, along with the ability to communicate verbally, comprehend and decipher information accurately, using a two-way radio and telephone.
- Valid driver's license and driving record that is insurable by our carrier.
To apply:
- Interested candidates must complete an online Zoo application.
- Interested candidates must include a resumé, cover letter, and salary requirements to be considered.
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.