Temporary Elephant Keeper

Fort Worth Zoo•Fort Worth, TX

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The responsibility of this position is to assist in the maintenance and care for elephants and other assigned species; and to perform a variety of activities related to the assigned area of responsibility. This position is for 400 hours of work generally in the form of 10 weeks, 40-hour weeks.

Requirements

Must be 18 years of age or older
Valid driver license with acceptable motor vehicle record to maintain zoo standards of insurability
Proof of negative tuberculosis (TB) screening within previous six months prior to placement and annually thereafter
Must possess ability to:
Work independently in the absence of immediate supervision
Understand and follow oral and written instructions
Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing
Establish and maintain effective working relationships
Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities
High School diploma or equivalent

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in wildlife management, zoology, animal behavior, biology, ecology, psychology or related field preferred
Specialized training in zoology or a related field desirable but not required

Responsibilities

Assist keeper staff in cleaning, sanitizing, maintenance and repair of animal quarters as required; shovel, rake, hose, sweep, dust and mop floors
Prepare diets for animals; clean and maintain work area and food storage containers
Maintain adequate records on daily activities; observe animal behavior for signs of illness, weight loss/gain or injury; report any signs of illness or injury
Observe the training of assigned animals, guide animals through daily routines according to established training schedules and guidelines
Carry out animal diet directives from Nutritional Services Department; clean and maintain food storage containers
Learn about and participate in the zoo-wide behavioral management program as it relates to implementing approved animal training and enrichment projects
Participate in and assist with approved research projects
Respond to public inquiries in a courteous manner; resolve complaints in an efficient and timely manner; present keeper talks to park visitors as required
Properly maintain exhibits, animal facilities, equipment and life support systems (as apply) as trained for specific positions
Understand and implement operant conditioning as it relates to the daily management of species under their care