Children’s Zoo Supervising Primary Keeper (Senior Keeper Level B, C, or Lead Keeper Level A)

Oakland Zoo•Oakland, CA

2d•$32 - $35•Onsite

About The Position

The Children’s Zoo Supervising Primary Keeper is hired at the Senior Keeper Level B, Senior Keeper Level C, or Lead Keeper Level A, depending on experience. The position is responsible for the daily care and management of Crowned Lemurs, Ring-Tailed Lemurs, River Otters, Fruit Bats, Rabbits, Domestic Pigs, Goats, and Sheep. The keeper works with the same group of animals five days a week and is responsible for care and guest interactions with goats and sheep in the Petting Yard. The position focuses on developing and mentoring keepers and volunteers, managing the string, and applying leadership skills to coach and support the team. Responsibilities also include developing expertise with select species or taxa; managing string projects, administrative responsibilities, and research; and navigating daily challenges while contributing positively to team culture. The position may cover department functions and coordinate emergency response in the absence of the Zoological Manager or Department Vice President. This position is subject to a collective bargaining agreement. Applicants must submit a resume, and candidates selected for candidacy must attend an on-site working interview. The application deadline is November 30, 2026. The stated hourly pay range is $31.92 to $35.35; an offer within that range is based on experience and qualifications and is the Zoo’s best and final compensation offer.

Requirements

At least 6 years of full-time paid experience caring for captive wildlife in the zoo field, preferably at an AZA or GFAS facility, including at least 1 year as a Senior Keeper or in an equivalent capacity.
For Senior Keeper Level C or Lead Keeper Level A, at least 8 years of full-time paid experience.
For Lead Keeper Level A, at least 2 years of experience as a Supervising Primary Keeper or in an equivalent capacity.
Strong experience in animal care and management.
Experience leading paid staff and unpaid volunteers or interns, including leadership training and conflict management.
Proficiency in leadership and communication, including self-management, team coaching, and support.
Significant knowledge of the natural history and captive wildlife management of the animals under their care to support their physical and psychological well-being.
Valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and ability to meet insurance carrier requirements.
Willingness to work outside normal business hours, including weekends, evenings, and holidays.
Knowledge of the habits and hazards of working with wild, dangerous animals, and willingness to work with some physical risk while following proper safety precautions.
Negative TB test within the last year, tetanus vaccine within the last 10 years, and measles vaccine.
Ability to lift at least 50 pounds and move at least 120 pounds.
Ability to walk long distances over uneven terrain and in variable environmental conditions.
Submit a resume; candidates selected for candidacy must attend an on-site working interview.

Nice To Haves

Experience working in a petting yard or with other outreach or ambassador animals.
Significant knowledge and experience in behavioral training theory and practical application.
Experience mentoring and teaching novice staff, interns, or volunteers.
Ability to inspire guests in casual and formal settings to take action for conservation.
Bachelor’s degree in zoology, biology, or a related field, or a specialized associate’s degree.

Responsibilities

Support oversight of string development, including scheduling, protocols, and behavioral management; mentor keepers and volunteers; and manage string projects and administrative responsibilities.
Model ACCR Leadership Program practices and foster a positive team culture at the string and section levels.
Use animal observation, enrichment, training, and other management methods to support the psychological well-being of animals in their care.
Conduct ongoing assessments of animals’ physical and psycho-social needs and design and implement steps to address those needs.
Implement Department and Zoo priorities and proactively identify improvements.
Guide and support junior staff and volunteers as appropriate.
Represent the Zoo in public settings, including press interviews, instructional classes, and casual communication with guests.
Coach, lead, and build a positive team culture within the string.
Demonstrate expertise with select species or taxa.
Cover department functions and coordinate emergency response in the absence of the Zoological Manager or Department Vice President, as needed.
Perform other related duties as required and assigned.
Provide daily care and management for the assigned animal species and interact with guests in the Petting Yard.