Facility
Austin Zoo, Austin, Texas
Closing Date
[jobclosingdate]
Description
The position requires a dedicated individual who will take direction from the Curator and/or Director in carrying out daily animal husbandry, exhibit and holding area management and keeper chats/encounters as scheduled. Keeper II/Keeper III will be trained through all areas of the zoo. Starting level/pay will be based on years of experience.
All aspects of Animal Husbandry including but not limited to cleaning, feeding, medicating, enrichment, training, handling/restraint, etc.
Keeper chats/encounters as scheduled. Public media as requested by Curator/Director.
Maintains records pertaining to feeding, water quality analysis, behavioral observations, training activities, medical procedures, etc.
Cooperates with Animal Health staff for animal health issues, treatments, veterinary procedures, transfers and crating.
Reports facility needs to Curator/Director in a timely way.
Adherence to area specific standard operating procedures (SOP’s) including safety.
Must be able to maintain discretion with confidential information.
Good knowledge of species-specific enrichment and training protocols.
Other duties as assigned.
Education and Pre-requisites
Bachelor’s Degree in biology or a related field is required with specific knowledge of animal husbandry and behavioral conditioning.
Keeper II: 3-5 years of paid experience working with exotic animals.
Keeper III: 5+ years of paid experience working with exotic animals.
A valid driver’s license with a good driving record.
Ability to work a flexible schedule which will include weekends and/or evenings and holidays.
Ability to respond to emergencies on an on-call basis.
Knowledge of Word Processing and Spreadsheet software.
Must have good written and oral communication skills.
Ability to perform all husbandry tasks for all species within the facility.
PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:
In good health and capable of performing strenuous and/or heavy physical labor.
No history of allergy related to animals or plants, which might interfere with ability to work.
Ability to remain on feet for long periods of time, climb stairs, bend and stoop.
Ability to work in all weather conditions.
No impairment of sight, smell, hearing, touch, balance and agility of movement which might interfere with ability to work.
Physical strength, including the ability to lift up to 50 pounds and be able to move up to 100lbs.
Immuno-competence (possible exposure to zoonotic infections/disease).
Proof of negative TB screening prior to placement and annually thereafter required.
Proof of rabies vaccination preferred.
Compensation and benefits
Minimum pay $16.00/hour and up based on experience. After the 90-day probation period is passed, you will receive a health stipend of $175 per month. Vacation and sick accrued at 40 hours each per year.
Application instructions
Please submit cover letter and resume to info@austinzoo.org