Job Postings

Keeper – Carnivores and Birds

Facility

Safari West

Closing Date
June 1, 2021
Description

Safari West is seeking an enthusiastic and motivated animal keeper to join our team. This is a very demanding job; we are looking for a dedicated keeper who has a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn. This string currently includes Cheetah, Servals, Caracals, Fennec Foxes and the Large Aviary (Waldrapp, Scarlet and Sacred Ibis, Roseate and African Spoonbills, Hammerkop, European White Stork, Demoiselle Crane, Several Duck Species, Swamphen, Blue Duiker, Abdim Stork, Cape Thick-Knee, Argus Pheasant, Several Pigeon and Dove Species, Lady Amherst Pheasant, Golden Pheasant, Francolin, Cattle Egret and Vulturine Guinea Fowl). The applicant will be expected to have knowledge of or be able to efficiently learn the natural history and behavior of the animals under their care. The applicant needs to have good communication skills, the ability to multi-task, a positive attitude, and the ability to function in high stress situations if need be. This position has numerous physical daily requirements, including lifting and maneuvering weights of over 50 lbs, and traversing uneven terrain; the applicant must have the ability to accomplish these demands. The applicant must be able to adhere to all safety protocols including proper lifting procedures, handling of dangerous materials, and movement around animals.
This position will have interactions with guests, interns and other staff members from various departments. The applicant will be expected to interact with others in a professional, respectful and positive manner at all times.

Job Tasks:
Job tasks will include, but are not limited to, diligent care of collection animals, upkeep and maintenance of animal habitats, behavioral enrichment, animal training, potentially aiding in veterinary treatment and medical procedures including the possibility of capture, restraint and transport, and documentation of daily activities.
You will be expected to follow the assigned training, enrichment, cleaning and feeding protocols put in place by management staff. You may need to perform routine maintenance on exhibits as needed and report any severe issues to your supervisor to get fixed in a timely manner.

Education and Pre-requisites

Qualifications:
The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 2 years of experience in exotic animal keeping, with a preference of one year of experience working with carnivores. A 4-year biology related degree is preferred, but not a necessity if the applicant has comparable experience. The applicant should be versatile, flexible, and have a willingness to work within constantly changing priorities with enthusiasm. We require a professional appearance and demeanor as well as a valid Driver’s license and clean DMV record.

Compensation and benefits

$15/hour DOE

Application instructions

Please send a cover letter, resume or CV, and 2 references to Nikki Smith at nsmith@safariwest.com.
Please note which position you are applying for in the subject line of the submitted email.