Zookeeper - Northwoods Prairie

State of North Carolina

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) takes care of the things that people love about North Carolina. DNCR manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. The Department’s vision is to be the leader in using the state's natural and cultural resources to build the social, cultural, educational, and economic future of North Carolina. Everyone is welcome. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov. We encourage you to apply to become a part of our team!

The NC Zoo is seeking an enthusiastic team member to be part of its Northwoods Prairie Zookeeper Team. Responsibilities include the daily assessment and care of these species both on-habitat and off-habitat animal areas. Northwoods Prairie - includes Grizzly bear, Black bear, Bison, Elk, and Red Wolf

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

• Bachelor s 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.
• Job offer is contingent upon passing a pre-employment screen conducted by assigned provider.
• Work schedule - between the hours of 7:30am - 5:30pm, 8 - 9 hour shifts (seasonally dependent)
• Must be able to work a rotating schedule that involves working weekends, holidays and after regular work shifts.
• Position is considered "Essential/Mandatory Staff" requiring work on adverse weather days and during zoo emergencies.
• Required to participate in the zoo's occupational health program.
• 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.
• 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.

Benefits

• Eligible state employees are entitled to comprehensive benefits, including a variety of leave options, professional development opportunities, insurance, and more.

What This Job Offers

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