Zookeeper - Commissary

Tulsa Zoo•Tulsa, OK

6h•Onsite

About The Position

The Tulsa Zoo Management, Inc. (TZMI) is a nonprofit organization driven by our mission of Connecting, Caring, Advocating for Wildlife, People, and Wild Places. From trumpeting elephants to squawking parrots, each member of our team is integral to the success of the Zoo as Green Country’s largest paid daily attraction. At Tulsa Zoo, the IDEA is a zoo for all. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. Apply today for your opportunity to join our dynamic group of passionate individuals who bring the zoo to life each day, 365 days per year, caring for animals, interacting with guests, educating the public, and managing the Zoo’s grounds, operations, and facilities.

Requirements

Bachelor degree in biology, zoology, animal science, environmental resources, wildlife management or a related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Must be 18 years or older, possess a valid driver’s license, and be insurable on TZMI’s insurance carrier.
Must be able to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
Ability to speak effectively before groups of guests, employees, and the general public.
Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
Ability to use Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint or Prezi, and popular internet browsers.

Responsibilities

Prepare daily food rations for hundreds of animal species of varying taxa according to specific dietary requirements, ensuring food safety and sanitation standards are upheld.
Measure, mix, and portion food items accurately and communicate with appropriate departments when items are ready to be picked up.
Assist in ordering and receiving food supplies.
Rotate stock to ensure freshness and prevent spoilage.
Conduct regular inventory checks and report shortages or discrepancies.
Clean and sanitize food preparation areas, equipment, and storage spaces.
Follow all safety protocols and guidelines to prevent contamination.
Properly dispose of waste and expired food items.
Work closely with vet staff and other departments to ensure dietary needs are met.
Recognize signs of pest infestation and combat pests/nuisance wildlife as directed.
Train, assist, and oversee work of volunteers/interns and ensure their safety while performing duties.
Attend and participate in staff meetings and assigned training sessions.
Participate in visitor education programs, formal and informal animal presentations and outreach programs, scheduled keeper talks, and provide accurate information to the public.
Maintain necessary testing/vaccinations as required (TB, rabies, etc.).
Maintain necessary certifications as required.
Respond to emergency calls after normal operating hours.
Maintain facilities to ensure animal, staff, and visitor safety, and in good appearance for public viewing at all times. Identify and communicate situations for repair and maintenance for the safety of animals, visitors, and staff as well as overall upkeep of the facilities.
Maintain area compliance with all local, state, federal, and international regulations (USDA, AZA, etc.).
Daily observation of animal collection for injury, illness, aggression, stress, diet intake and fecal consistency.
Maintain accurate records including but not limited to food inventory.
Monitor equipment (freezers, HVAC and backup generators) as needed.
Apply appropriate techniques and opportunities for enrichment of the animal collections.
Effectively communicate and demonstrate interpersonal skills with all levels of employees in a clear and professional manner.
Demonstrate and adhere to TZMI’s workplace values.
Fill in for zookeepers in other departments as requested.