Zoo Keeper (Asian Domain)

Audubon Institute•New Orleans, LA

29d•Onsite

About The Position

Asian Domain keepers provide all aspects of care and wellness for a diverse collection of Asian species including but not limited to Asian elephants, Amur leopards, Malayan tiger, babirusa, Malayan sun bear, small-clawed otters, barasingha, and Burmese mountain tortoises. Safety is paramount when working with dangerous animals and attention to detail is required. Keepers have complex and rigorous work requirements that require time management, creative thinking, patience, sense of humor, and dedication to the craft. The Asian Domain collection of animals will provide you with a wide range of experiences and provides tremendous opportunities for skills development and specialization.

Requirements

Minimum high school diploma
Current driver’s license
Must be willing to work weekdays, weekends, and holidays.
Strong work ethic

Nice To Haves

Preferred college degree in biology or a related science or equivalent practical experience.
Previous paid experience in the care of exotic wildlife
Knowledge of modern husbandry practices, animal welfare standards, behavioral enrichment, training, specific knowledge of relevant taxa
Knowledge of operant conditioning
Previous experience operating a skid steer, truck, forklift, backhoe, etc.
Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
Fun attitude
Emotional intelligence
Experience with hand tools, power tools, lawn equipment, pressure washers, and chainsaws.
Experience with capture and restraint of exotic wildlife
Previous firearms experience

Responsibilities

Perform routine husbandry- feed prescribed diets, monitor and report diet consumption, observe and report any health or behavioral abnormalities of all assigned animal specimens to immediate supervisor daily.
Assist hospital staff with health monitoring and assessment.
Clean, sanitize, and prepare animal housing areas as directed.
Follow all Standard Operating Procedures for assigned areas.
Continuous learning. Develop professional skills and knowledge in areas such as animal care, enrichment, conservation, genetics, safety, training, animal introduction and reproduction
Participate in welfare assessments. Work with Curators, Assistant Curators and other keepers to seek ways to improve the wellbeing of animals in your care.
Develop basic knowledge and experience with modern husbandry techniques, professional best practices, and in accreditation standards set forth by AZA and USDA.
Develop strong communication skills, including active listening, giving and receiving feedback and thoughtful dialogue.
Perform approved Behavioral Enrichment activities and create new enrichment based on the needs of the animal(s).
Develop and utilize operant conditioning techniques to increase the quality of life of the collection.
Promote and nurture a positive work environment and team morale.
Identify and report minor or routine maintenance problems in a timely manner.
Perform facility and exhibit maintenance, including but not limited to, trash and debris removal, mowing, weed eating, pressure washing, floor cleaning, painting, minor section repairs, etc.
Maintain high standards of personal appearance and grooming, including proper uniform standards.
Performs Keeper Chats, VIP/BTS Tours, and Wild Encounters as required.
Perform all other duties as assigned by Curators, Assistant Curator, or designated section leadership.