Living Collection, Animal Keeper I (Part-Time)

Museum of Science•Boston, MA

10h•$19 - $21•Onsite

About The Position

The Animal Keeper Position plays a vital role within our Living Collections Department by supporting the care and well being of a diverse range of animals and plants that call the Museum of Science home. In this role, you’ll contribute to daily animal care, enrichment, and observation, as well as the maintenance of enclosures, equipment, and animal areas, helping to ensure high standards of welfare while supporting meaningful guest experiences. This position offers the opportunity to build skills in animal care, training, and public engagement, while gaining hands-on experience in a collaborative, mission-driven environment dedicated to science education and animal care.

Requirements

Foundational knowledge in animal care.
Demonstrated interest in animal welfare, conservation, or science education.
Basic knowledge of animal biology or natural history, with a willingness to learn about the species in the Museum’s collection.
Comfort engaging with the public and representing the Museum in a positive, professional manner.
Demonstrated ability to use computer systems for record keeping and day-to-day communication with staff.
Ability to work weekends, holidays, and after-hour shifts, as required.
Ability to lift 50 pounds often and push/pull 100 pounds infrequently.
Able to work in an environment that may expose you to possible allergens such as dander, dust, animal waste, and animal foods.
Ability to wear proper PPE to maintain the safety of yourself, the team, and the animals.
Ability to follow instructions and use tools and machinery in a safe manner.
Must be able to have negative TB test yearly and rabies vaccinated if able.

Nice To Haves

Hands-on experience at a zoo, aquarium, museum, veterinary, farm, or similar setting is preferred.
Interest in animal welfare, enrichment, and science education.
Coursework or degree progress in biology, zoology, animal science, environmental science, or a related field is preferred.
Experience maintaining records or logs in a professional, academic, or volunteer setting is preferred.

Responsibilities

Follow established schedules and protocols to complete daily animal care tasks efficiently and consistently.
Care and husbandry of all plants and animals as assigned each day, including cleaning, feeding, diet preparation, and maintaining enclosures and/or water qualities.
Follows standard operating procedures to ensure consistency in care.
Actively participate in welfare assessments and environmental enrichment programs.
Record daily in digital and physical records as needed to provide accurate animal records and maintenance logs.
Under the direction of veterinary staff participate in veterinary procedures and delivery of medications.
Promptly communicate and escalate concerns regarding animal health or safety to appropriate staff.
Participate in animal training programs for husbandry behaviors and participation in animal programming using positive reinforcement training techniques.
Interact with guests through educational programming and interpretations.
Perform other work-related duties as required.