Zookeeper - Elephants (Full Time)

the Memphis Zoo • Memphis, TN

1d • Onsite

About The Position

This position is primarily responsible for the daily husbandry of five female African elephants. Now is an exciting time to join our team as we begin the process of designing a new Africa habitat for our elephants, rhinos, giraffe and hoofstock. This renovation and expansion will serve to further the Memphis Zoo’s commitment to elephants in the future. The ideal candidate would be proficient in all aspects of zoo animal care including husbandry, enrichment, training, exhibit maintenance, record keeping, public presentations, and conservation. Candidates for this position should be self-motivated, hard-working, positive, dependable, who can work independently, but also thrive in a team setting.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Some college level coursework in the fields of Zoology, Biology, Psychology, or related field.
• Experience working with animals in a zoological setting and/or similar experience working large mammals in the field of agriculture.
• Written and oral communication.
• Proficient in MS office, current technology and applications for communication, research, and record keeping.
• Records and reports creation and management.
• Critical thinking.
• Problem Solving/Analysis.
• Stress Management/Composure.
• Flexibility.
• Teamwork Orientation.
• 18 years or older.
• Clear background check.
• Clear drug screening.
• Clear TB screening.
• Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience working with elephants in a captive setting.

Responsibilities

• Daily husbandry of assigned animals.
• Facilitates formal and informal public presentations to engage guests and provide a positive guest experience.
• 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.
• 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.

Benefits

• The Memphis Zoo has a comprehensive benefits and employee perks package.
• The Memphis Zoo participates in E-Verify and is an EEO/ADA/Veteran employer.
• All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment screening.
• Memphis Zoo is a drug-free workplace.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED