Facility
Zoo Atlanta
Closing Date
[jobclosingdate]
Description
Job Title: Keeper II
Department: Ambassador Animals
Reports to: Lead Keepers and Curatorial Staff
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Job Status: Full-time
Who we are: Located just minutes from downtown, Zoo Atlanta is the oldest and one of the most respected cultural destinations in the Southeast’s largest and most vibrant city. Culture, dining, nightlife, and famously eclectic neighborhoods, not to mention a temperate climate year-round, attract a growing number of newcomers to the one-and-only Atlanta.
As an organization, Zoo Atlanta’s points of pride include being one of only three zoos in the U.S. to house giant pandas; home of one of North America’s largest populations of great apes; and a longtime reputation for excellence in the care and study of reptiles and amphibians. Our mission sets us apart, and every day at Zoo Atlanta is an opportunity for discovery, a chance to contribute to conservation, and a way to make a difference in the lives of the people of our community.
What we offer: As a workplace, Zoo Atlanta is very proud of a commitment to diversity and inclusion and a competitive compensation and benefits package. Benefits include but are not limited to outstanding medical coverage and 403b retirement program match; vacation time buy and sell; professional development training; paid time off for community volunteering; and more.
Who you are: Animal keepers are responsible for animal husbandry, including training and enrichment. Additionally, keepers are responsible for maintenance of habitats, holding, and public areas of the assigned department. The Keeper II will report to the area managers. For more information about our animal, conservation, and research programs visit www.zooatlanta.org. The Ambassador Animals department includes 3 work areas; World of Wow Theater includes our free flight demonstration birds, Wieland Wildlife Home includes our tractable education animals, and Outback Station includes our contact yard and periphery exhibits. This position is a primary keeper position in the Wieland Wildlife Home. Species include small mammals such as rabbits, chinchillas, and armadillos, reptiles including lizards, tortoises, and snakes, invertebrates and a salamander.
How to apply: Please apply directly on the Zoo Atlanta Careers website at www.zooatlanta.org/careers
ESSENTIAL DUTIES, SKILLS, AND RESPONSIBILITES:
Monitor health and behavior of the animal collection and communicate changes to supervisor and veterinary staff. Oversee administration of medications as applicable.
Maintain a high-performance level of general keeper dutiesincluding excellent animal care and guest interactions.
Strong interpersonal skills to form and maintain positive relationships within the work environment.
Actively support and implement area policies, procedures and protocols to ensure the highest standards of care for the collection and the safety of staff and guests with the willingness to provide constructive feedback.
Participate in and support collaborative efforts pertaining to the care of the collection including training, enrichment, research and education.
Complete behavioral management training and utilize operant conditioning and enrichment techniques.
Actively foster constructive attitudes and positively participate in a team environment.
Support Zoo Atlanta and its departments which include marketing, education, veterinary services, facilities and external department initiatives.
Demonstrate the ability to coordinate and supervise activities of interns and volunteers.
Communicates effectively with supervisory staff and co-workers, both written and orally.
When possible, actively participate in workshops, seminars, activities and conferences aimed at continually improving job knowledge and professional development.
Must be willing to fully support Zoo Atlanta’s strategic plan, mission and values, and work with all zoo staff to support these plans.
Responsible for special projects, procedures, and goals set forth by the area managers.
Support Zoo Atlanta’s conservation and research initiatives.
Must be dependable and willing to work flexible hours, weekends and holidays.
Perform in scripted and non-scripted public demonstrations and animal encounters utilizing live animal ambassadors.
Perform behind the scenes support roles during public demonstrations.
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; therefore, the employee may be required to perform other reasonably related duties as assigned by management.
Education and Pre-requisites
QUALIFICATIONS:
A minimum of 3 years prior related animal care experience as determined by Zoo Atlanta is required. Paid experience at an AZA accredited facility is preferred.
Good communication skills, an enthusiasm for interacting with the public and a willingness to give regular talks to guests, special groups, etc.
Experience with operant conditioning and enrichment techniques is preferred.
Must have strong written and oral skills.
Demonstrate computer proficiency to complete the functions of this position.
Demonstrate the ability to use light power tools after suitable training.
Experience speaking on microphone for scripted and/or non-scripted public presentations is preferred.
EDUCATION:
Four-year degree in biology, psychology, or related field is preferred; sufficient relevant experience will be considered.
DRIVING REQUIREMENTS:
Must obtain and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license.
WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions and have the physical ability to perform strenuous work. .
MISC:
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Therefore, the employee may be required to perform other reasonably related duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor or other management. The company reserves the right to revise or change job duties as business requirements dictate. It is mutually agreed that this job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.
Zoo Atlanta is an EOE and provides a Smoke-free and Drug-free Work Environment
To apply for this position, please go to our website: zooatlanta.org/careers
Compensation and benefits
Perks for this full-time position include:
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and other supplemental insurance
Retirement Savings Plan (403b) with employer match after 12 months of service
Relocation stipend for qualifying candidates
Paid time off includes vacation, sick and personal days plus holidays
Tuition assistance program
Employee Assistance Program
Employee short term and long-term disability insurance paid for by Zoo Atlanta
Opportunities for professional development paid for by Zoo Atlanta
Local discounts and free admission to partnering attractions
Complimentary family Zoo membership
Discounted pricing on individual and family education programs, such as Safari Camp, Twilight Trek, NightCrawler, Survival Safari, and much more!
Join the standby list for free behind-the-scenes encounters with elephants, lemurs, giant pandas, aldabra tortoises!
Application instructions
Apply directly on the Zoo Atlanta Careers website at zooatlanta.org/careers