Aquatics Keeper

Nashville Zoo • Nashville, TN

9d • $16 - $21 • Onsite

About The Position

The Aquatics Keeper's primary responsibilities are to feed, clean, and maintain assigned collection animals, monitor water quality; maintain and control filtration on animal exhibits, off exhibit enclosures, and contiguous areas; perform light exhibit construction and maintain LSS filtration systems; operate zoo vehicles; maintain integrity of existing exhibits and exhibit plant life. Additionally, employee may be responsible for educating the public through keeper talks and other impromptu educational sessions as well as providing a clean and safe atmosphere for families to enjoy the Nashville Zoo.

Requirements

• Animal behavior
• Knowledge of filtration and water chemistry
• Care, feeding, and handling of aquatic organisms
• Safety practices around exotic and domestic animals
• Animal biology or zoology or other related field
• Techniques for maintaining water Quality
• Degree in zoology, animal biology, animal husbandry or related field, and/or at least one year of work experience at a zoological facility or experience with LSS equipment or any equivalent combination of training and experience, which provides the required work skills, knowledge, and abilities to do this job.
• Frequently standing and walking for most of an 8–10‑hour shift and regularly bend, kneel, reach, and perform repetitive motions while cleaning habitats, preparing diets, and providing enrichment.
• Frequently lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling up to 50 lbs and occasionally up to 75 lbs with assistance, as well as navigating ladders, stairs, uneven terrain, and wet or slippery surfaces.
• Strong hand dexterity, clear verbal communication, and adequate vision and hearing are essential to safely observe animals, operate tools and gates, and use radios.
• Work occurs indoors and outdoors year‑round in all weather, with routine exposure to animal dander, hay, dust, insects, loud noises, strong odors, and cleaning agents.
• Employees may encounter biological hazards, zoonotic diseases, and potentially dangerous animals and must follow established protocols for shifting, feeding, and emergency response.
• The role may require wearing PPE such as gloves, protective footwear, eye and hearing protection, and respirators as assigned.
• The role must learn new tasks, remember processes, maintain focus, complete task independently, and make timely decisions in the context of a workflow.
• Successfully complete a criminal background check and drug screening prior to hire.
• Pre-employment and annual tuberculosis (TB) screenings are a condition of continued employment.

Nice To Haves

• Ability to operate facility vehicles may be required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare food and water for collection animals by cutting and measuring diet portions.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance
• Maintain professional conduct at all times and consistently model the organization’s values in all interactions with colleagues, guests, and stakeholders.
• Feed collection animals including use of proper supplementation.
• Monitor assigned animals closely with regard to general appearance, diet consumption levels, condition of fecal matter, etc.
• Interpret proper water quality parameters per species requirements.
• Maintain records in ZIMS database
• Clean animal exhibits, off-exhibit enclosures, and service areas
• Participate in capturing, incapacitating, and moving animals
• Assists Veterinarian staff in the treatment of collection animals
• Provide exhibit security and take appropriate actions to prevent vandalism and maltreatment of animals and facilities by the public.
• Clean and disinfect utensils, work tools, and containers
• Operate a variety of light and medium equipment

Benefits

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage – including medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you and your family healthy.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – confidential support services for mental, emotional, and financial well-being.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching – helping you build a secure future while you make a meaningful impact today.
• Generous paid time off and sick leave – because rest and recovery are vital.
• Exclusive zoo perks – enjoy discounts on park experiences, retail, and food services, plus complimentary membership benefits.
• A collaborative and inclusive culture – be part of a diverse team where your voice matters, your growth is nurtured, and collaboration thrives across all departments.
• AZA-accredited facility – Nashville Zoo is committed to top-tier animal care, ethics and global conservation efforts.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree