Primary Animal Keeper – Children’s Zoo

Oakland Zoo•Oakland, CA

15d•$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. Animals in this diverse section include lemurs, bats, otters, goats, sheep, cats, pigs, and rabbits. Work ranges from the physical tasks associated with feeding and maintenance of living areas to more analytical tasks of planning, record keeping, and communication. Animal Keepers are expected to develop a comprehensive knowledge of the natural history of the species to support them in providing appropriate care for our animals and direction from the Senior Keeper, Lead Keeper and/or the Zoological Manager regarding daily operations as appropriate. This position is for a Primary Keeper. They work with the same group of animals (string) 5 days a week. They work closely with the string’s Supervising Primary Keeper and support them as needed in the daily operation and needs of the string’s animals and facilities. They are expected to provide clean and safe conditions for the animal’s living spaces as well as implement enrichment and training to meet the holistic welfare needs of the animals. Additionally, they assist the Supervising Primary Keeper managing keeper aides, interns, and volunteers.

Requirements

Minimum of two years full time or 4160 hours experience in the care of captive wildlife in the zoo field (preferably at an AZA or GFAS facility).
Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
Willingness to work outside normal business hours including weekends, holidays, and nights
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

Nice To Haves

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

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
Interact with the public
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