Facility

Birmingham Zoo, Inc.

Closing Date

Description

JOB SUMMARY

The Birmingham Zoo is looking for a dynamic and experienced keeper to join our team. Our Animal Care Professional Level II (ACP-II) is a full time position responsible for the daily training and husbandry of 12 species of animals in the Predator building through operant conditioning and enrichment to provide exemplary animal care and welfare. In addition to animal care and training, this position will also include daily maintenance of animal habitats, behind the scenes tours and interactions, and public lion training demonstrations. Collectively with other zoo employees, these activities will assist in presenting to the public an environment that is educational, entertaining, and serves to further the mission of the Birmingham Zoo. As part of the predator department, this position may include cross training on other routines, as needed.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Displays and demonstrates knowledge of the basic biology, behaviors, and the husbandry needs of animals in the Predator building.
Cleans and maintains all animal areas to USDA standards, this includes the use of chemical agents and special tools to assure the health and safety of the animals.
Uses proper techniques in shifting animals.
Maintains highest level of safety at all times.
Actively supports area policies and procedures, mission, vision, and strategic plan of Birmingham Zoo.
Identifies, recognizes, documents and reports any abnormal animal behavior, facility issues or any other issues in their department to their Zoological Manager in a timely manner.
Identifies, documents, and properly communicates any animal medical issues to the Zoological Manager and Veterinary staff in a timely and appropriate manner.
Demonstrates skillful use of operant conditioning with the animals in their department.
Creates new enrichment ideas and items to be added to their department repertoire.
Properly utilizes the animal record keeping systems within the department.
Maintains and updates the departments’ animal files.
Responsible for capturing, crating, and transferring animals using appropriate restraint and handling techniques designed to put the least amount of stress on the animal.
Prepares and presents keeper chats to Zoo visitors and guests.
Other duties as assigned.

Education and Pre-requisites

High School degree, or some college; Bachelor’s Degree in an animal related field highly preferred.
At least 3 years’ experience on staff in a zoological institution (AZA accredited zoo or aquarium preferred).
Experience with operant conditioning and enrichment programs.
Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills; have high energy and enthusiasm for completion of tasks; possess team building skills; and have the ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
Must have ability to foster teamwork within and across teams.
Competency in computer skills.
Must be dependable and demonstrate flexibility in regards to work schedules, including hours, weekends, and holidays.
Must have a current valid driver’s license with no prior traffic violations (within the last five years).
Must be First aid/CPR certified, or be willing to be certified.
Must have current negative TB test and provide documentation, or be willing to have a TB test.

Compensation and benefits

Not specified.

Application instructions

Please apply on our website: www.birminghamzoo.com, About Us, Employment.