Float Animal Keeper, African Savanna and Rainforest (Part-time, Temporary)

Oakland Zoo • Oakland, CA

4d • $27 - $28 • Onsite

About The Position

Animal Keepers play a vital role on the ACCR team, taking care of the physical health and psychological well-being of the animals directly under their care. The Float Keeper works across animal strings and has the opportunity to care for a variety of species: tiger, lion, dromedary camel, plains zebra, klipspringer, rock hyrax, agouti, and a large number of bird species (pied crow, hamerkop, white faced whistling duck, blue bellied roller, yellow billed stork, sacred ibis, hooded vulture, superb starling, speckled mousebird, taveta golden weaver, guira cuckoo, blue and gold macaw, military macaw).  Which area the keeper is trained on will depend on their level of experience in the field. This role will cover strings in the absence of the primary Animal Keeper(s) and will assist the primary keeper with duties and special projects as needed.

Requirements

• Minimum of 6 months full time or 1040 hours experience in the care of captive animals in the zoo or animal care field (preferably at an AZA or GFAS accredited facility). 
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
• Willingness to work outside normal business hours including weekends, evenings, and holidays
• Knowledge of the habits and hazards of working with wild, dangerous animals; willingness to work with some physical risk while observing proper safety precautions
• Medical requirements: Negative TB test within the last year
• Tetanus vaccine within the last 10 years
• Able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs. (i.e., feed sack) and move a minimum of 120 lbs. (i.e., hay bale)
• Able to walk long distances on uneven terrain in variable environmental conditions (e.g., steep, muddy, etc.)
• Collaboration – builds trusting relationships with both internal and external stakeholders across our organization and community-wide and approaches differences of opinion with curiosity and humility.
• Communication – communicates respectfully and effectively with stakeholders across identities, both verbally and in writing
• Inclusive Culture - fosters a culture of mutual respect, transparency, collaboration and belonging which allows all employees to feel appreciated, included, and valued.
• Organization – strong attention to details and able to build and/or maintain efficient systems
• Time management – strong capabilities with a demonstrated ability to effectively prioritize multiple commitments
• Sustainability – oriented toward the mission and values of the Oakland Zoo and able to put those into practice by finding creative and resourceful ways to develop sustainable practices within your role and department
• Passion – wholeheartedly believes in, represents, and models Oakland Zoo’s mission and PRIDE values at all times
• Wildlife Aware - understands mission to support the conservation and welfare of animals at The Zoo, locally and globally. This is demonstrated by a willingness/passion to reflect this mission in all actions and to continue to learn how to take action for wildlife

Nice To Haves

• Code red or dangerous animal experience
• Large carnivore experience
• Experience working with birds in mixed species habitats
• Experience in breeding or animal introductions with any of the taxa mentioned above
• Knowledge and experience in behavioral training theory and practical application
• Ability to inspire guests in casual (e.g., one on one) and formal (i.e., programs) venues to take action for conservation
• Bachelor’s degree in zoology, biology or a related field or a specialized Associate's degree (ex: Moorpark)

Responsibilities

• Use the tools of animal observation, enrichment, training and other management methods to ensure the best possible psychological well-being of the animals in their care
• Conduct ongoing assessment of their physical and psycho-social needs
• Design and implement steps to address these needs
• Implement Department/Zoo priorities as well as demonstrate the initiative and expertise to regularly find ways to make improvements
• Guide and support junior staff and volunteers as appropriate
• Represent the Zoo in a variety of public settings including press interviews, instructional classes and casual communication with Zoo guests
• Perform other related duties as required and assigned

Benefits

• Oakland Zoo offers part-time and seasonal employees a valuable benefits package, including an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Paid Sick Time, optional 403b Retirement Plan, and a Zoo Membership.
• They also have access to various perks, discounts, and programs to enhance their overall experience.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level