Position:

The primary function of this position is delivering great guest experiences and interpretative programs while also completing daily care and husbandry of the animals in the collection. The animal collection includes ambassador animals, animal adventures, domestic hoofstock, avian species, and several North & South American species, such as capybaras, tortoises, and American black bear. This position reports to the Assistant Curator of Animal Welfare and Engagement. This individual will work with a diverse team to complete these daily responsibilities. Daily responsibilities include but are not limited to: daily husbandry of animals; cleaning, feeding, watering, observing, enclosure upkeep, monitoring health and welfare, medicating under veterinary supervision, record keeping, training, enrichment, and formal and informal education exchanges with the Zoo guests. Preference will be given to applicants who have experience with animal husbandry, operant conditioning training, and comfortable with public speaking and interpretative messaging.

Key Responsibilities of the Keeper:

Keepers perform regular zookeeping duties and other tasks, including:

• Monitoring health and behavior of all collection animals
• Preparing and delivering specific diets for collection animals
• Cleaning and disinfecting animal enclosures
• Basic landscaping in and around exhibits
• Inspecting exhibits daily for safety conditions and addressing problems promptly
• Under the supervision of veterinary staff, administering medications as needed
• Implementing enrichment activities and behavioral training of animals to improve animal management and welfare
• Promoting visitor education and interactive experiences
• Handling and displaying animals for both onsite and offsite programs while providing the public with educational information in a fun and professional manner
• Actively encouraging interest in wildlife conservation and inspiring action through positive interaction with Zoo guests via educational chats focused on animals, biology, conservation, and environmental issues.
• Staffing educational programs for learners of all ages, including but not limited to- field trip programs, interpretative presentations, and training demonstrations.
• Speaking in front of large audiences, both on and off microphone.
• Keeping detailed records of animal behavior, feeding, health, etc., through ZIMS Species360.
• Participating in emergency drills and assisting in the capture or restraint of animals (physical or chemical) in the case of emergency
• Maintaining exhibits to USDA, ZAA, and facility standards
• Adhering to all safety and welfare protocols set forth by Management and Veterinary staff
• Joining and regularly participating in at least one zoo committee
• Other duties as needed, including non-animal related tasks and cooperation with departments outside of animal care (maintenance, retail, amusements, etc.)

The above listed duties are general statements of required major duties and responsibilities performed on a regular and continuous basis. They do not exclude other duties as assigned.

Experience:

• Preference will be given to applicants that have 1 year(s) paid working experience in animal care at an accredited zoological institution.
• Must be comfortable with working with learners of all ages, and professional writing.

Education:

• High school diploma plus a
• Bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university is required, preferably in zoology, biology, animal science, education or a related field. (In lieu of a bachelor’s degree, years of experience may apply.)

Physical Requirements:

• Physically demanding work several hours a day.
• Sitting or standing, bending, stooping, and per OSHA regulations: Heavy work involving lifting no more than 75 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or varying of objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Constant adequate range of motion and mobility required.
• Visual acuity is required to read printed instructions and safety information, and to assess animal behavior.
• Ability to receive and convey detailed information through oral communication (in person and via telephone/radio), at normal speaking levels with or without correction is necessary to safely carry out this position.

Environmental/Working Conditions:

• Long hours are sometimes required including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to do physical labor, often in tropical heat or other inclement weather is required.
• Ability to work under and handle stress in an appropriate manner required.
• Ensure that off-exhibit areas are maintained in a clean, organized, and safe fashion.
• Candidates must be able to work effectively with minimal supervision and approach all encounters with employees and guests in a friendly, service-oriented manner.
• Willingness to work irregular hours and be available based on special needs/circumstances on a 24-hour basis.
• Ability to compose animal and exhibit information for publication in the following: Zoo’s website, publications, signs for the Zoo, etc.
• Exposure to disinfectants and other chemicals, zoonotic diseases, animal bites, and other animal-related injuries may occur in the normal course of duty.
• Candidates must assist with pest control for their section.

Personal Attributes:

Strong interpersonal skills; ability to communicate well with a wide variety of people. High attention to detail. Commitment to continually making the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo a better place for its animals, its staff, and its guests.

Hours:

This is a 40 hour per week position. Working hours for this position are currently 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM and are not flexible. Hours may vary seasonally. All animal care staff are required to work weekdays, weekends, and holidays, as well as occasional after-hours events or animal care.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $14.84 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• AD&D insurance
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Holidays

Application Question(s):

• Are you comfortable speaking/ presenting to large groups on and off of a microphone?
• Are you willing to undergo a background check in accordance with state laws and regulations?

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

• animal care at an accredited facility: 1 year (Required)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Gulf Shores, AL 36542 (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• Gulf Shores, AL 36542: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person