Animal Care Specialist -Australasia (Zookeeper)

Denver Zoo•Denver, CO

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Australasia Animal Care Specialist will support the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance's (DZCA) mission by providing the safe exhibition, handling, feeding, and husbandry to the Zoo's Australasia collection. The Australasia division includes clouded leopards, gibbons, Asian small-clawed otters, macropods, and some birds and reptiles. DZCA is a leader in animal care, wildlife conservation, and education, committed to excellence and inspiring communities to save wildlife for future generations. The staff is a dedicated and diverse group committed to providing quality care to animals while creating moments of awe for guests. This role is for a like-minded individual who thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced, and innovative culture.

Requirements

A total of 6 years' combined experience between education AND zookeeper experience in the care, feeding, and handling of a variety of exotic animals in an AZA-accredited institution.
Degree in Zoo Animal Technology, Biology or science-based field, or animal behavior/psychology required, or in a related field.
Zookeeper experience in the care, feeding, and handling of a variety of exotic animals in an AZA-accredited institution.
Ability, with proper training, to work in all aspects of animal care, husbandry and training within the department in which individual is assigned.
Work on weekends and holidays are required.
Operate a variety of light and medium equipment.
Ability to pass a physical examination, background check and pre-employment drug and alcohol screen.
Candidates must be at least 21 years of age with a valid driver's license and a clean driving record.
Ability to lift to 50 lbs.
Must be able to provide a Negative TB Test and complete a Rabies Titer.

Responsibilities

Provide innovative animal husbandry that follows AZA and USDA standards.
Maintain proper animal enclosures/props/exhibits and Life Support Systems where appropriate.
Capture, handle, and move animals using accepted DZCA practices to facilitate internal movement, external shipping, medical procedures, or normal routines.
Monitoring of physical and behavioral aspects of the animals under assigned care.
Implementation of the behavioral program of the animals under assigned care.
Record data and prepare assigned reports/records (i.e. daily reports, enclosure logs, facility logs, water quality logs, etc.) and other pertinent data on the collection and facilities as required.
Work closely with other team members to achieve area goals and expectations.
Train fellow keepers, interns, and volunteers in standard section routines.
Cooperate and coordinate with other departments (e.g., education, maintenance, horticulture) and outside contractors.
Maintain professional working relationships with zoo team members.
Actively participate in conservation and research projects as assigned.
Participate in and support zoo-wide initiatives, committees and work groups.
Interact with DZCA guests in both formal and informal settings, providing insight about the animals and their care.
Provide area behind the scenes tours, Up-Close Looks, keeper talks and work special events in area of responsibility as needed.
Participate in educational programs as assigned.
Maintain a professional appearance, following uniform guidelines.
Respond to zoo-wide animal related emergencies.
Coordinate the efforts of contractors and maintenance staff when they are working in animal areas.
Follow DZCA safety protocols.
Demonstrate a commitment to DZCA’s Sustainability Policies by adhering to all environmental, safety, & health regulations, procedures, and goals.