Facility
Oakland Zoo
Closing Date
[jobclosingdate]
Description
Elephant Keepers play a vital role on the ACCR team, taking care of the physical health and psychological well-being of the animals directly under their care. Work ranges from the physical tasks associated with feeding and maintenance of living areas to more analytical tasks of planning, record keeping, and communication. Elephant Keepers are expected to develop a comprehensive knowledge of the natural history of the species to support them in providing appropriate care for our animals. The Elephant Keeper takes direction from the Senior Keeper, Lead Keeper and/or the Zoological Manager regarding daily operations as appropriate.
Essential Job Duties
Use the tools of animal observation, enrichment, training and other management methods to ensure the best possible psychological well-being of the animals in their care
Conduct ongoing assessment of their physical and psycho-social needs
Design and implement steps to address these needs
Implement Department/Zoo priorities as well as demonstrate the initiative and expertise to regularly find ways to make improvements
Guide and support junior staff and volunteers as appropriate
Represent the Zoo in a variety of public settings including press interviews, instructional classes and casual communication with Zoo guests
Perform other related duties as required and assigned
Education and Pre-requisites
Minimum of one year full time or 2,080 hours experience in the care of captive wildlife in the zoo field (preferably at an AZA or GFAS facility), large mammal/elephant experience strongly preferred.
Able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs. (i.e. feed sack) and move a minimum of 120lbs. (i.e. hay bale)
Able to walk long distances on uneven terrain in variable environmental conditions (e.g., steep, muddy, etc)
Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
Willingness to work outside normal business hours including weekends and holidays
Knowledge of the habits and hazards of working with wild, dangerous animals; willingness to work with some physical risk while observing proper safety precautions
The Oakland Zoo requires COVID vaccination*
Working knowledge of elephants/large mammals in a protected contact training program
Knowledge and experience in behavioral training theory and practical application
Ability to inspire guests in casual (e.g., one on one) and formal (i.e., programs) venues to take action for conservation
Bachelor’s degree in zoology, biology or a related field
Compensation and benefits
Salary Range: $24.29 – 25.75 (depending on experience)
Comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, life insurance, PTO (Paid Time Off) and 403B retirement benefits.
Application instructions
Follow this link to apply
https://recruiting2.ultipro.com/OAK1008OZOO/JobBoard/754619c4-d7c6-489f-83fa-37cd81c2513d/Opportunity/OpportunityDetail?opportunityId=20c595e0-1f0e-40e4-b20b-bfeab4b96afb