Primate Keeper

Saint Louis Zoo•Saint Louis, MO

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Saint Louis Zoo is seeking a positive, compassionate and collaborative keeper to join the Primate Unit in the Animal Care Department. The Primate Unit is comprised of the Jungle of the Apes (gorillas, orangutans, chimpanzees) and Primate House/Primate Canopy Trails (lemurs and monkeys). The successful candidate will be open to providing routine coverage in either area for long- or short-term staffing needs, though primary placement may be as a core team member in one of these areas. This position operates as part of a team, and requires seasonal late night, weekend, holiday and event coverage duties.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
Bachelor's degree in biology, environmental science, animal science, wildlife management, or similar area of study or 3+ years of experience preferred
Paid experience at an AZA institution and previous work experience with primates a plus
Demonstration of a high level of emotional intelligence and the ability to work as a positive team member
Knowledge of animal behavior and good observation skills are important, a strong interest in behavior management and animal welfare is critical
Comfort and experience public speaking and sharing animal and conservation messages
Communicates effectively with managers, co-workers and other departments, both written and orally
Must have the ability to: follow safety protocols, demonstrate focus, follow written and verbal instructions, effectively promote organization, manage time effectively, apply critical thinking techniques, analyze, and solve problems
Demonstrate computer proficiency (experience with ZIMS a plus) to complete the functions of this position
Must be able to use light power tools after suitable training
Candidates must have the physical ability to perform required duties as assigned, including standing for long periods of time, lifting (up to 50 lbs.), bending, climbing, and working in all types of weather
A working knowledge of AZA and USDA standards beneficial
Current, valid Missouri or Illinois driver’s license or the ability to obtain one
All successful candidates for this position will be required to undergo a criminal background check and a drug test. As this is a safety-sensitive role, a negative drug test result is mandatory. The drug test screens for five substances, including marijuana.
COVID vaccinations are required for this position

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in biology, environmental science, animal science, wildlife management, or similar area of study or 3+ years of experience preferred
Paid experience at an AZA institution and previous work experience with primates a plus
Demonstration of a high level of emotional intelligence and the ability to work as a positive team member
Knowledge of animal behavior and good observation skills are important, a strong interest in behavior management and animal welfare is critical
Comfort and experience public speaking and sharing animal and conservation messages
Communicates effectively with managers, co-workers and other departments, both written and orally
Must have the ability to: follow safety protocols, demonstrate focus, follow written and verbal instructions, effectively promote organization, manage time effectively, apply critical thinking techniques, analyze, and solve problems
Demonstrate computer proficiency (experience with ZIMS a plus) to complete the functions of this position
Must be able to use light power tools after suitable training
Candidates must have the physical ability to perform required duties as assigned, including standing for long periods of time, lifting (up to 50 lbs.), bending, climbing, and working in all types of weather
A competitive candidate will actively support and embody the Saint Louis Zoo’s core values of community, creativity, openness, integrity and life-work balance; and will be passionate about providing the highest quality of life for the animals in their charge
A working knowledge of AZA and USDA standards beneficial
Current, valid Missouri or Illinois driver’s license or the ability to obtain one

Responsibilities

Commitment to a culture that prioritizes safety in all job aspects, including adhering to all safety and husbandry protocols and SOPs
A positive, adaptable and flexible demeanor and able to manage a wide array of duties and animal care responsibilities
Collaborative work style with strong communication and teamwork skills, as well as the ability to work independently and take initiative
Contributes to open team discussions including sharing ideas in a positive and professional manner along with listening and considering other perspectives and ideas
Exemplary animal care including a focus on the benefits of behavioral conditioning to train species for voluntary participation in husbandry and medical care and providing a dynamic goal-based enrichment program to create a stimulating physical and psychological environment that facilitates opportunities for diverse and natural behaviors
Active participation in monitoring and assessing animal welfare on a regular basis through close collaboration with veterinary staff and animal care team to provide the highest standard of care
Clean and maintain habitats, off habitat spaces, service areas and public areas including minor habitat maintenance and perching projects according to Zoo and industry standards.
Keep work areas neat, clean and organized
Conduct and record animal observations, maintain departmental and Zoo records as assigned including entering data into ZIMS
Actively engage in storytelling to help connect guests with the animals and the zoo’s conservation efforts.
Aiding the Zoo’s efforts to meet and exceed AZA and USDA’s animal care, safety and other accreditation standards
Demonstrates a commitment to maintaining a work environment free from discrimination and sexual harassment and supports the Zoo’s commitment to equal employment opportunities
Must be dependable and reliable: be on-time, responsive and organized; meet deadlines, take responsibility, and help other Zoo staff as needed