Zookeeper - Zebra, Ostrich and Giraffe

State of North Carolina•Cat/chimp Randolph, NC

5d•$33,902 - $44,800•Onsite

About The Position

The North Carolina Zoo is seeking an enthusiastic team member to be part of its Zebra, Ostrich and Giraffe work unit. Animals cared for include zebra, ostrich, giraffe and red river hogs. Responsibilities include the daily assessment and care of these species both on-habitat and off-habitat animal areas. In addition to a rewarding work environment, Zookeepers have the opportunity to participate in a variety of conservation initiatives, involvement in Zoo committees, and other professional development opportunities. The Zoo is centrally located on a beautiful 500+ acre site in the heart of the North Carolina Piedmont plateau region and the Uwharrie Mountains. Multiple hiking trails are located on property with quick access to the Piedmont Triad cities, Appalachian Mountains, and coastal towns providing the opportunity for a positive, work-life balance.

Requirements

Bachelors degree in biology, zoology, natural sciences, OR related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution AND one year of experience working in a zoo-based or related animal care facility; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Must be able to capture, handle and restrain live exotic and potentially dangerous animals and use associated capture equipment.
Must have the ability to perform strenuous physical work with alertness to surroundings in extremes of weather and challenging physical environments with or without a reasonable accommodation.
Must be able to frequently lift up to 50 lbs. with or without a reasonable accommodation.
Must meet DNCR Fleet Safety Guidelines and have ability to obtain and maintain a valid driver's license issued from within the United States or be able to obtain one within 90 days of employment.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated hands-on animal care experience at an AZA accredited zoo or related facility
Demonstrated experience with record keeping and comfort utilizing computers.
Keen observation skills to discern and interpret subtle changes in health, condition and behavior of animals, and to monitor breeding activity.
Proven communication skills to include guest interactions, public speaking, reporting, and or team interactions.
Experience with positive reinforcement-based operant conditioning and environmental enrichment

Responsibilities

Provide daily care of animal collection, maintenance of animal habitats, and holding areas, including heavy lifting of hay, grain, manure, substrates and heavy duty cleaning and scrubbing as a routine occurrence.
Conduct systematic observation and monitoring of animal health, behavior, and welfare.
Interact with zoo guests in formal and informal setting.
Work as a team to develop and implement holistic behavioral management program which utilizes positive reinforcement training, behavior-based enrichment variability, and utilizing research to provide a dynamic environment for optimal animal welfare.
Ensure thorough and accurate animal records are maintained
Be an active, productive member of the team to ensure highest quality of animal care and welfare, problem solve issues and engage in decision making processes.
May be assigned to work with other animal species in other work units as needed.