Temporary Keeper

Oakland Zoo•Oakland, CA

9h•Onsite

About The Position

This position is subject to a collective bargaining agreement. The application deadline is September 20, 2026. This is a full-time, temporary position that is starting October 1 2026 and anticipated to end on April 1 2027, with potential to extend depending on the needs of the organization. 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 Animal Keeper works across animal strings and has the opportunity to care for a variety of species: baboons, gibbons, squirrel monkeys, chimps, amazon parrots, pudu, cotton top tamarins, siamang, sun bears, flamingos, hadada ibis, spoonbills, wallaroo, and emu. 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 wildlife in the zoo field (preferably at an AZA or GFAS facility). This can include unpaid experience.
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

Nice To Haves

Code red or dangerous animal experience
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