Zookeeper

State of North Carolina•Asheboro, NC

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Join the North Carolina Zoo during an exciting period of growth as we prepare for the opening of Asia! The North Carolina Zoo is seeking to hire multiple, talented and enthusiastic team members to join our Animal Section. We are looking to fill Zookeeper positions in 7 different areas - Asia herps - New Asia development encompassing variety of reptiles/amphibians species including Chinese giant salamander, Komodo dragon and King Cobra. Asia mammals - New Asia development encompassing Malayan tiger, Asian small-clawed otter, white-cheeked gibbon, and warty pigs Avian - Consists of a variety of avian species housed between three areas: Asia Avian Habitats (3), Avian Propagation building (off habitat) and Avian Barn building (off habitat). Desert - Desert dome building encompassing a wide diversity of reptiles/amphibians, birds, and mammal species Elephant – African elephants Rocky Coast - Horned Puffins, Arctic Fox, North American Porcupine, Brown Pelican, and Polar Bear Swamp - Reptiles, Amphibians, Owl, and Cougars 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.
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.