Zoo Keeper (Primates)

Audubon Institute•New Orleans, LA

13d•Onsite

About The Position

This position is a Zookeeper at the Audubon Zoo. The position will encompass a skilled professional that provides technical work in the daily care of specific animals and exhibits. Reporting directly to the Assistant Curator of an assigned area, and under the general supervision of the Curator. Zookeepers perform routine zookeeper duties; work under minimal supervision in a wide range of functions; may supervisor volunteer staff; initiate and participate in training and behavioral enrichment. This position works directly with Siamangs, Golden Lion Tamarins, White-Throated Capuchin, Mandrills, White-faced Saki Monkey and Southern Pudu. This position may cross train with other primate species within the department. This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic team that focuses on welfare initiatives, breeding, and mixed species management.

Requirements

Diverse and strong knowledge of the principles of captive primate management. Great Ape experience preferred.
Strong knowledge of zoonotic diseases and prevention.
Strong ability to exercise sound judgment to evaluate each animal’s health, diet, behavior, and any emergency situations that arise.
Considerable experience in care, restraint, and handling of exotic animals.
Excellent safety track record, especially with Great Apes.
Working knowledge of USDA and AZA requirements.
Strong knowledge of exhibitory techniques, such as perching.
Strong knowledge of animal training and application.
Must have the ability to be cross trained in all aspects of the Primate Department.
High School degree or equivalent
Accurate oral and written communication skills
College credits in Biology or related f ields
Must maintain a valid La. Driver’s License
Must be fully Covid vaccinated
Current TB test
Current Tetanus shot
Current rabies vaccinations as required by department
Ability to obtain Incident Command System 100 and 200
Proficiency in computer processing
Ability to learn and operate medium and heavy equipment as needed.
Ability and willingness to operate power tools, lawn equipment, etc.
Ability and willingness to operate complex pump systems.
The ability to work outdoors in extreme weather patterns, including heat, humidity, and heavy rain.
Sitting or standing, bending, stooping, and per OSHA regulations : Heavy work involving lif ting no more than 100 pounds at a time with f requent lif ting or carrying objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
Risk periodic exposure to predictable and controllable hazards associated with wild animals and zoonotic diseases.
Must be able to wear appropriate PPE when designated by employer.
Ability to work effectively and positively on a team and with volunteers.

Nice To Haves

Working knowledge of breeding, hand rearing animal transport and introductions preferred.
Bachelor’s degree in related f ield preferred
With 6+ years of experience, an individual can qualify for a Senior Keeper position. Additional benchmarks would need to be met and/or a timeline created to achieve benchmarks.

Responsibilities

Provide daily guest experience of outstanding quality.
Weave quality entertainment through the guest experience.
Enhance the care and survival of wildlife through welfare initiatives and research
Identifies and corrects minor or routine maintenance problems and reports other maintenance needs directly to supervisor(s).
Performs and initiates behavior modification and behavioral enrichment programs in assigned areas as designated by supervisor(s).
Observes general animal health and behavior daily and reports any abnormal situations to a supervisor(s).
Maintains daily records of health and behavior status of animals in designated areas as directed.
Prepares and follows prescribed diets and feeding procedures as directed by supervisor(s).
Will assist in training new personnel in methods of animal care consistent with policies and procedures .
Will value the contribution of every team member.
May assist in the selection, training, supervision, evaluation, and assignment of volunteers as needed.
May assist in developing new facilities and improving existing ones as assigned by supervisor(s).
Composes technical reports on various aspects of captive animal management and exhibition as assigned by supervisor(s).
Participates in capturing, restraining, and moving animals and sharing techniques with other team members.
Assists veterinary and curatorial staff in treating animals as assigned and prescribed.
Makes decisions consistent with Audubon policies and procedures when required.
Performs daily duties in all sections of the assigned department as required.
Strong skills in time management.
Ability to stay f lexible with team, supervisor(s), animals and daily routine.
Willingness to participate in AZA programs as assigned by supervisor(s).
Take initiative by leading co-workers, Interns and Volunteers in coordinating and leading group projects.
Brings a positive attitude and is accountable for their actions.
Take personal responsibility for their surroundings.
Displays actions that are moral and ethical.
Looks to provide alternate solutions whenever possible.
Maintain empathic behavior towards team members and supervisor(s).
Willingness to receive and give feedback f rom team members and supervisor(s).
Make eye contact with every customer encounter, smile at every person, and offer f riendly phrases and greetings.
Wears identification badge and follow dress code. Maintains a camera-ready appearance.
Walks guests to their destination instead of pointing; help people whenever possible.
Assumes ownership of potential safety hazards and park appearance (wipe-up spill, pick up trash).
Always engage team members and guests in a positive manner.
Utilizes the power of teamwork to provide excellent service.
Know when to involve the management team.
Strives to share their passion and experiences for the conservation of wildlife.
Empowered to take ownership of opportunities to exceed expectations.
Daily cleaning of animal habitats and grounds.
Maintains off-exhibit areas in a clean and organized manner.
Ability to work weekends and holidays, including overtime and be available based on special needs/circumstances on a 24-hour basis.
Willing to perform Pest Control duties as necessary.
Willingness to serve on the zoo’s Hurricane Team, if needed.
Ability to understand and operate moat pump systems.
Ensures work area is free of food, drink, socialization, and personal business .