Animal Care Specialist-Hoofstock

Denver Zoo•Denver, CO

11h•Onsite

About The Position

The Animal Care Specialist – Hoofstock role will support our mission by ensuring the safe exhibition, handling, feeding, and husbandry of the Zoo's hoofstock collection. The hoofstock division includes a diverse range of species, including giraffe, lesser kudu, Somali wild ass, eastern bongo, and others. This role requires excellence in husbandry skills, communication, active participation in training and enrichment, and involvement in public demonstrations. Our team is made up of passionate and diverse professionals dedicated to providing excellent care for our animals while creating meaningful experiences for our guests. If you're excited to contribute your skills in a collaborative and innovative environment, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is the place for you!

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 a 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 the individual is assigned.
Work on weekends and holidays is required.
Operate a variety of light and medium equipment.
Ability to pass a physical examination, background check, and pre-employment drug and alcohol screen.
Clear driving record.
Ability to lift to 50 lbs.

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 for 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 workgroups.
Interact with DZCA guests in both formal and informal settings, providing insight into the animals and their care.
Provide area behind-the-scenes tours, up-close looks, keeper talks, and special events in areas 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 Occupational Health, Safety, Environmental & Sustainability Policies by adhering to all environmental, safety, & health regulations, procedures, and goals.