Facility
Gulf Breeze Zoo
Closing Date
[jobclosingdate]
Description
Gulf Breeze Zoo is a 50-acre facility located in the beautiful Florida panhandle that houses a wide variety of species, ranging from a petting area and budgie feeding to large carnivores and gorillas.
The zoo currently has an opening for a lead keeper position. The lead keeper would report directly to the curator of the department which encompasses large carnivores, small mammals, primates including lesser apes, birds, reptiles and invertebrates. Lead Keepers are also responsible for weekly feed/supplies inventories, staff training, etc. Lead keepers must be able to perform all duties of the curator when the curator is not present.
Education and Pre-requisites
This position requires a minimum of 3 years experience working with exotics in a zoological setting. 1 or more years of managerial experience preferred. Keepers who have a documented 1000+ hours working with tigers, lions, black bears, gibbons, gorillas, rhinos and/or hippos preferred. All applicants must be physically fit and active, able to lift 50 pounds comfortably, and be able to work in all types of weather. An Associates or BS in an animal science is preferred, although experience may be given preference. Preferred applicants will have experience in using or be willing to learn to use trucks, tractors, weed eaters, power tools and other types of machinery.
Applicants must possess a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, and a valid driver’s license. Must adhere to strict personal appearance requirements with no visible tattoos permitted and maintain a non-smoking work environment. Weekends and holidays are mandatory work days for new hires, as are long days when needed. Emphasis is placed on guest interactions, so applicants must be very comfortable with the public. Must be able to complete daily tasks in a timely fashion with minimal supervision once trained, keep good daily records, and be proficient at observing animals.
Compensation and benefits
Competitive salary, insurance, paid sick/vacation time and 401k options available.
Application instructions
Please send resumes and cover letters to:
Dr. Natalie Dyson-General Curator- Vet@gulfbreezezoo.org