Zookeeper - Asia Mammal
About The Position
The North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) is seeking two enthusiastic team members to join its Asia Mammal Zookeeper Team. This role involves the daily assessment and care of species within the Asia Mammals section, including Malayan Tiger, Asian Small-clawed otter, White-cheeked gibbon, and Visayan Warty Pig, in both on-habitat and off-habitat areas. Zookeepers have the opportunity to participate in conservation initiatives, Zoo committees, and professional development. The Zoo is located on a 500+ acre site in the North Carolina Piedmont plateau region, offering a good work-life balance with access to nearby cities and mountains.
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.
- 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.
- 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.
Nice To Haves
- Demonstrated hands-on animal care experience with rhinoceros and/or antelope 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 settings.
- Work as a team to develop and implement a holistic behavioral management program utilizing positive reinforcement training, behavior-based enrichment variability, and 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 the 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
- Professional development opportunities
- Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
