Animal Interpreter/Zookeeper – Nocturnal (Full Time)
About The Position
The Animal Interpreter/Zookeeper acts as an ambassador of the Zoo through a variety of on-site and virtual educational programs that feature live animal ambassadors. Interpretive duties include providing encounters, impromptu and scheduled chats, and other programs for all ages; participating in a variety of outreach and appearances; providing general support to daily education and interpretive programs and engaging with Zoo guests daily. This position is also responsible for providing for daily husbandry of a collection of small mammals, birds, amphibians, invertebrates, and reptiles in the Animals of the Night and ambassador animal collections. The ideal candidate would be proficient in all aspects of zoo animal care including husbandry, enrichment, training, exhibit maintenance, record keeping, keeper chats, and conservation as well as engaging guests to connect with the animals. Candidates for this position should be self-motivated, hard-working, positive, dependable, who can work independently, but also thrive in a team setting.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Zoology, Biology or a related field.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
- 18 years or older.
- Clear background check.
- Clear drug screening.
- Clear TB screening.
- Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.
Nice To Haves
- Previous experience with animal care and operant conditioning in a zoological setting.
- Previous experience in the education field or with animal presentations.
- Knowledge of current technology and applications for communication, research, and record keeping.
Responsibilities
- Provides best available practices in daily animal care, husbandry, enrichment, and training.
- Guest engagement: Facilitates formal and informal public presentations to engage guests and provide a positive guest experience.
- Researches, develops, and presents recurring shows, chats, and encounters with ambassador animals for in person and virtual audiences.
- Provides unique, interactive, educational, and naturalistic experiences featuring ambassador animals for Zoo guests.
- Actively observes animals’ behavior, checking for any signs of illness or disorder; reports irregularities and abnormal behavior to supervisor; works with vet staff to address medical needs.
- Prepares and administers appropriate daily diets and maintain accurate records of assigned animals.
- Appropriately cleans and disinfects assigned animal enclosures/habitats according to written protocols and ensures a sanitary and safe environment.
- Performs exhibit maintenance, including concrete work and periodic updates to exhibit perching and hides.
- Exercises good judgement when making decisions that affect our collection.
- Assists hospital staff in all aspects of animal treatment within the assigned section.
- May incorporate modern behavioral husbandry techniques such as operant conditioning and environmental enrichment into animal care.
Benefits
- Comprehensive benefits and employee perks package
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
