Zookeeper - Bird Keeper (Full Time)

Memphis Zoo • Memphis, TN

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Zookeeper is primarily responsible for daily husbandry of a collection of
animals as it relates to their physiological and psychological well-being as
well as providing general maintenance of enclosures and habitats within an
assigned exhibit. Keepers are responsible for daily husbandry, observations,
enrichment, and training birds. Monitoring health during molts, social dynamics
during breeding season, egg incubation, and occasional hand-rearing of chicks
are also expected. The keeper will engage guests through a daily keeper chat or
feeding, and may also be cross trained to take care of African penguins.

The ideal candidate would be proficient in all aspects of zoo animal care
including husbandry, enrichment, training, exhibit maintenance, record keeping,
keeper chats, and conservation. To be successful in this role, a candidate
should be detail-oriented, self-motivated, hard-working, positive, dependable,
able to work independently, but also thrive in a team setting.

Collection Encompasses: The Tropical Bird House is divided into two large
flights, multiple small exhibits, and behind-the-scenes housing. Species include
several hornbill species (Abyssinian ground hornbills, yellow-casqued hornbills,
southern ground hornbills, red-billed hornbills), corvids, doves and various
other passerines.

Requirements

• 18 years or older.
• Clear background check.
• Clear drug screening.
• Clear TB screening.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Zoology, Biology, or a related field.
• Previous experience with operant conditioning in a zoological setting.
• Previous experience with capture and restraint of birds.
• Previous experience with exhibit maintenance, design, and perching.
• Previous experience with egg incubation and hand-rearing.

Responsibilities

• Provides best available practices in daily animal care, husbandry, enrichment, and training.
• Actively observes animals’ behavior, checking for any signs of illness or disorder; reports irregularities and abnormal behavior to supervisor; works with vet staff to address medical needs.
• Prepares and administers appropriate daily diets and maintain accurate records of assigned animals.
• Appropriately cleans and disinfects assigned animal enclosures/habitats according to written protocols and ensures a sanitary and safe environment.
• Closely monitors dynamics within the colony, including during breeding season.
• Assists with hand-rearing penguin chicks as needed.
• Performs exhibit maintenance, including minor repairs and pool cleanings.
• Exercises good judgement when making decisions that affect our collection.
• Assists hospital staff in all aspects of animal treatment within the assigned section.
• May incorporate modern behavioral husbandry techniques such as operant conditioning and environmental enrichment into animal care.
• Facilitates formal and informal public presentations and chats to engage guests and provide a positive guest experience.

Benefits

• The Memphis Zoo has a comprehensive benefits and employee perks package.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level