Zookeeper I, Aquatics

Houston Zoo•Houston, TX

64d

About The Position

Under the direction of a Zoo Supervisor, the Zookeeper is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations associated with the husbandry of the animals and the maintenance of animal enclosures within a specified Houston Zoo animal program. This position will coordinate all program objectives in addition to day-to-day husbandry and enclosure maintenance. Members of the Aquarium team will need to be active members on the dive team to do routine maintenance and cleaning of the aquatic environments, following all dive protocols. Our Mission: Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife. Our Vision: Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife.

Requirements

Associate’s degree or two years of college level education (60 semester credit hours) in zoology, biology, animal husbandry or a related field.
A certificate of completion from an acceptable animal care program of not less than 30 semester hours may be substituted for 30 hours of college hours.
One year of experience in animal care at an AZA or equivalent facility, gained through employment, internships, or volunteer experience.
Must have or be able to obtain a valid Texas driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

Experience with species in captivity, in a conservation setting.
Experience with basic carpentry and mechanical skills.

Responsibilities

Carries out all aspects of the daily care of assigned animals including cleaning, feeding, exhibit maintenance, general upkeep of support facilities.
Maintains clean and organized exhibits, equipment, and keeper areas.
Maintains water quality through filtration, balance of chemical elements, and sanitation methods for aquatic or semi-aquatic animal species.
Maintains live exhibit plantings to enhance exhibit aesthetics and provide a comfortable environment for animals; eliminates weeds and toxic plants from animal enclosures.
In conjunction with the Zoo’s pest control officer, may assist in pest control through the use of exclusion or traps.
Prepares and feeds appropriate diets as per established feeding practices and diet sheets.
Administers prescribed medications, supplements, or treatments under the guidance of the veterinary and supervisory staff.
Records and reports any abnormal animal health or behavioral issues to the supervisor.
Maintains daily reports, logs, research or veterinary records, as appropriate and according to established guidelines; requires basic skills with Microsoft Office software applications.
Contributes to saving animals in the wild through: reduction of waste, water and energy use and inspiring guests and staff to take wildlife protecting actions
Performs other duties as assigned.