Swing Keeper

Position Title: Swing Keeper

Department: Ectotherm

Supervisor: Area Supervisor of Herpetology

Nashville Zoo Mission

Nashville Zoo is dedicated to inspiring a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation, and leadership. With a diverse collection of animals and a commitment to wildlife preservation, we provide engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.

Why Work With Us

At the Nashville Zoo, we believe in taking care of our team just as well as we care for our animals. Full-time employees enjoy a robust benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and future:

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage – including medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you and your family healthy.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – confidential support services for mental, emotional, and financial well-being.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching – helping you build a secure future while you make a meaningful impact today.
• Generous paid time off and sick leave – because rest and recovery are vital.
• Exclusive zoo perks – enjoy discounts on park experiences, retail, and food services, plus complimentary membership benefits.
• A collaborative and inclusive culture – be part of a diverse team where your voice matters, your growth is nurtured, and collaboration thrives across all departments.
• AZA-accredited facility – Nashville Zoo is committed to top-tier animal care, ethics and global conservation efforts.
  
  

Description

Under limited supervision, employee will learn all aspects of both the Herpetology department and the Aquatics department and will work in both areas as needed. Primary responsibility is to manage exhibits and collection speciemens to the highest standards possible. The swing keeper will participate in the general care of all assigned collection animals; maintain exhibits, perform light exhibit construction; operate zoo vehicles; maintain integrity of existing graphics and exhibits. Employee will be responsible for ensuring that all supplies and needs for their areas (ordering feed products, acquisition of tools and cleaning supplies etc.) are ordered by them or informing the appropriate staff member of the need. Employee will remain a positive role model for coworkers.

Duties And Responsibilities

Animal Husbandry

• Prepare food and water for collection animals.
• Document and collect data.
• Extensive records and data keeping
• Clean animal exhibits, and service areas
• Participate in capturing, incapacitating, and moving animals
• Assists Veterinarian staff in the treatment of collection animals
• A primary keeper some collection animals and swing keeper for all collection specimens.
• Participate in animal conditioning techniques with improved animal welfare as the primary goal.
  
  

Maintenance

• Clean and disinfect utensils, work tools, and containers
• Perform minor or routine maintenance of enclosures and report all other maintenance needs to supervisors
• Operate a variety of light and medium equipment
  
  

Public Education

• will be required to speak to public, media and give presentations.
• Model the Zoo’s image and code of professional ethics in words and actions at all times
  
  

A conservation Keeper does not have the authority to hire or fire animal care staff but does have the authority to reprimand staff (verbal) or after discussing it with their immediate supervisor (written).

Skills- Thorough Knowledge Of

• Aquatic and herpetological animal behavior, Life support systems, water quality
• Care and feeding of all collection animals except venomous until fully trained
• Safety practices around exotic animals
• Animal biology or zoology or another related field
• Techniques for restraining and capturing exotic and domestic animals
• Zoo policies and procedures
• Animal conditioning
• Data management
• Ability to self-direct work tasks while ensuring safety and productivity.
  
  

Capable Of

• Completely performing the responsibilities outlined in the “Duties and Responsibilities” section
• Monitoring animal behavior and appearance
• Operating motorized vehicles and equipment; applicant must possess a valid driver’s license
• Taking and following work instructions
• Working in a team-oriented atmosphere
• Effectively communicating with coworkers and supervisors
• Interacting and communicating with the general public and media in an appropriate manner
• Utilize programs for statistical analysis and data entry.
  
  

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to work outside year-round under typical Tennessee weather conditions and temperatures for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to work in uneven terrain with exposure to varying weather conditions, dust, and allergens.
• Must be able to move about on slippery surfaces, handle toxic and hazardous materials and work in cramped and confined spaces.
• Must be able to lift and carry materials up to 50 pounds.
  
  

Education

A degree in zoology, animal biology, animal husbandry or related field preferred. Experience with Reptiles and or Aquatic life required.

Pre-employment Requirements

Nashville Zoo is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and maintains a drug-free work environment. All employment is at-will.

• All candidates are required to successfully complete a criminal background check and drug screening prior to hire.
• Pre-employment and annual tuberculosis (TB) screenings are a condition of continued employment.
  
  

Special Note

Applicant may be required to work any combination of five days in the seven-day workweek including holidays.

Pay Range

$16.10 - $18.50 USD