Part-Time Stingray Keeper

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium•Omaha, NE

2d•$17

About The Position

At Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, the Part-Time Stingray Keeper plays an important role in supporting the daily care and training of Cownose and Southern Stingrays at Stingray Beach, the Zoo’s interactive stingray habitat. This position works in partnership with the Supervisor and full-time team members to uphold the highest standards of animal welfare, assist with life support system operations alongside the Aquarium team, and help maintain safe, clean, and engaging exhibits for guests. The Part-Time Stingray Keeper assists with monitoring water chemistry, animal health, and habitat conditions during assigned shifts, while supporting daily staffing coordination and task completion. Acting in a shift-based leadership capacity, this role communicates regularly with the Supervisor and Lead regarding animal management, facility maintenance needs, and operational priorities. The position may assist in training and mentoring interns, seasonal staff, and animal care specialists to ensure consistency in performance and adherence to Zoo policies and procedures. Collaboration remains essential to success in this role. The Part-Time Stingray Keeper works closely with Interactive Animal Programs (IAP) and Guest Services during scheduled hours to provide a safe, memorable, and impactful guest experience. By demonstrating professionalism, animal care excellence, and meaningful visitor engagement, the Stingray Keeper supports the Zoo’s mission of inspiring lifelong stewardship for animals and their habitats.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age with a valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
Minimum one year of professional experience in exotic animal care, behavior, and husbandry; aquatics experience strongly preferred.
Working knowledge of aquarium systems, including life support systems (LSS), water chemistry, filtration systems, and quarantine protocols.
Demonstrated understanding of freshwater and marine fishes, with ability to monitor health and welfare effectively.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with confidence in public speaking and guest engagement.
Ability to exercise sound judgment in responding to animal behavior concerns, operational issues, or emergencies.
Proficiency in standard office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Email).
Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and make informed decisions with minimal supervision.
Willingness to work flexible, part-time hours including weekends, holidays, and peak guest seasons.
Willingness to travel as required.
Candidates might be (depending on position) required to pass a pre-employment background check, drug test, negative skin tuberculosis test.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting educational presentations, tours, or guest programs preferred.

Responsibilities

Animal Husbandry and Welfare Implement animal care protocols in alignment with Zoo standards, Living Exhibits SOPs, and AZA guidelines.
Monitor stingray health, behavior, and body condition; document observations and assist with welfare assessments.
Participate in animal handling and routine procedures, including barb trimming, as scheduled.
Assist with health management, diet preparation, supplemental feeding, and inventory tracking.
Maintain accurate records of animal care, water quality, and life support systems using ZIMS.
Support enrichment programs to encourage natural behaviors and promote positive animal welfare.
Life Support Systems (LSS) and Facility Operations Develop and maintain a working knowledge of exhibit life support system functions and mechanics.
Assist with the operation, monitoring, and routine maintenance of LSS to ensure optimal conditions.
Perform water quality testing and basic system adjustments under the guidance of the Supervisor or LSS staff.
Support exhibit cleanliness, safety, and presentation in both guest and behind-the-scenes areas.
Assist with basic building and grounds upkeep, including basic maintenance, cleaning, and horticultural tasks.
Staff Support and Training Assist the Supervisor in training, mentoring, and directing any interns, and seasonal staff.
Assist with onboarding support and cross-training efforts related to husbandry and LSS protocols.
Provide shift coverage support when delegated, ensuring continuity of daily operations.
Promote a safe, professional, and collaborative work environment through teamwork and positive example.
Guest Experience and Collaboration Work closely with Interactive Animal Programs (IAP) and Guest Services to provide guests with safe, memorable, and impactful interactions.
Serve as a knowledge resource for interpreters and other staff working in or around the stingray exhibit.
Support cross-departmental efforts including marketing, PR, special events, and education programs when needed.
Model professionalism and engage meaningfully with guests to support the Zoo’s mission of education and conservation.
Safety and Risk Management Follow established safety protocols when working around stingrays and exhibit systems.
Report and respond promptly to animal welfare or guest safety concerns.
Assist in maintaining secure enclosures and safe operating procedures for staff and visitors.
Other Responsibilities Assist with scheduling, daily records, inter-departmental communication, and staff meetings as directed by the Supervisor.
Contribute ideas for operational improvements that enhance guest experience, animal welfare, and staff support.
Provide temporary coverage or assistance at other Living Exhibits locations as needed.
Support general Zoo operations and participate in advancing the Zoo’s conservation and education goals.