Facility

Utica Zoo

Closing Date

Description

Position available is either Keeper 1, 2 or 3, based on experience.
Department: Animal Care
Reports to: Keeper IV-Lead Keeper and Animal Department Managers

Job Purpose:
All animal keeper levels are responsible for animal husbandry, including training and enrichment. Additionally, animal keepers are responsible for maintenance of habitats, holdings, and public areas as assigned. All keeper levels will expect to be responsible for normal keeper duties as part of the daily responsibilities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES, SKILLS, AND RESPONSIBILITES:

Effectively monitor health and behavior of the animal collection and communicate changes to supervisor and veterinary staff. Oversee administration of medications as applicable.
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 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.
Maintain a high-performance level of general keeper duties including excellent animal care and guest interactions including scheduled on-ground talks.
Use strong interpersonal skills to form and maintain positive relationships within the work environment.
Positively promote and foster work that improves department function and productivity.
Oversee activities of interns and volunteers.
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 Utica Zoo’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 animal department managers.
Support Utica Zoo’s conservation and research initiatives.
Actively foster constructive attitudes and positively participate in a team environment.
Support Utica Zoo and its departments which include marketing, education, veterinary services, facilities and external department initiatives.
Communicates effectively with supervisory staff and co-workers, both written and orally.
Must be dependable and willing to work flexible hours, weekends and holidays.
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.

Keeper 2 will show ability to gain additional responsibilities above a Keeper 1. This may include coordination of programs or service on committees.
Keeper 2 would be eligible for participation in SSP and studbook management, at the approval of the Utica Zoo and AZA.

Keeper 3 will show ability to gain additional responsibilities above a Keeper 1 or 2. This may include coordination of programs or service on committees.
Keeper 3 would be eligible for participation in SSP and studbook management, at the approval of the Utica Zoo and AZA, as well as participation in SSP correspondence, transaction coordination and ZIMS input.
Keeper 3 will maintain an active role in the Utica Zoo emergency response team, as deemed necessary by animal management.
Keeper 3 will remain proficient and up-to-date on all aspects of husbandry for the areas assigned as part of their role. This will include frequent rotation between 2 or more areas. There will also be expectation that this keeper level will be able to fill in other areas outside of their oversight as well.
Keeper 3 will deliver a positive visitor experience including engagement, and assisting them in having a great experience at the Utica Zoo.
Keeper 3 will provide mentorship to, and give input into evaluations of Keeper levels 1 and 2.
All keepers will be expected to become familiar with husbandry standards and AZA Animal Care Manuals.
Keeper 3 is recommended to consider membership in professional organizations such as AZA and AAZK.
Keeper 3 will assist with protocol development and review, with final approval from animal managers.

DRIVING REQUIREMENTS:

Must obtain and maintain a valid New York driver’s license within six months of employ.
WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions and have the physical ability to perform strenuous work. Must be capable of lifting 50 lbs or more.

Education and Pre-requisites

Keeper 1:
QUALIFICATIONS:
-Prior related animal care experience is preferred. Paid experience at an AZA accredited facility is preferred.
-Communicates effectively with supervisory staff and co-workers both written and orally.
-Experience with operant conditioning and enrichment techniques is preferred.
-Demonstrate computer proficiency to complete the functions of this position.
-Must be able to use light power tools after suitable training.
EDUCATION:
-Four-year degree in biology, psychology, or related field is preferred; sufficient relevant experience will be considered.

Keeper 2:
QUALIFICATIONS:
-A minimum of 2 years prior related animal care experience as determined by Utica Zoo 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.
EDUCATION:
-Four-year degree in biology, psychology, or related field is preferred; sufficient relevant experience will be considered.

Keeper 3:
QUALIFICATIONS:
-A minimum of 4 years animal care experience as determined by Utica Zoo is required. Paid experience at an AZA accredited facility is also preferred. Exceptions will be made on a case-by-case basis.
-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.
-Must have the ability to use light power tools after suitable training.
EDUCATION:
-Four-year degree in biology, psychology, or related field is preferred; sufficient relevant experience will be considered.

Must have proof of COVID vaccination and and TB test or ability to get them within 6 months of starting.

Compensation and benefits

$13.25 to $16.99 dependent on experience.
Dental insurance, Employee assistance program, Employee discount, Health insurance, Health savings account, Paid time off, Retirement plan, Vision insurance and more

Application instructions

To apply, please email resume, cover letter and salary requirements to HR@uticazoo.org. Applications submitted without salary requirements or cover letter will not be considered. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Utica Zoological Society
1 Utica Zoo Way
Utica, NY 13501
Phone: 315-738-0472
Fax: 315-738-0475