Facility
Alexandria Zoological Park
Closing Date
[jobclosingdate]
Description
Kind of Work
Zoo keepers are responsible for the daily care of zoo/exotic animals. Duties include preparing diets, feeding animals in assigned area, cleaning enclosures, minor repairs in enclosures, grounds maintenance in and around exhibits, operant conditioning, interactions with visitors, helping with set-up and working during special events. This specialized position will focus on the animal ambassadors in our education department and their husbandry. Primary duties will include handling and training the ambassadors for their continued use in programs and supply routine enrichment for their mental well-being. Under the direction of the Education Curator, you will assist with adult & teen volunteer groups and conduct and/or assist with programs for field trips, zoo classes, events and birthday parties. Responsibilities also include upkeep and cleanliness of the education buildings. The Alexandria Zoo is a small AZA facility that utilizes strong independent individuals to work in a family type setting. We have a diverse small collection of about 500 animals. www.thealexandriazoo.com
Examination is announced to establish an employment list to fill vacancies in the Zoo department and future vacancies as they occur to perform manual and semi-skilled work in the care of exotic zoo animals, including large cats, and the maintenance of zoo grounds and facilities. This is a position that emphasizes manual work in behind-the-scenes care of animals and exhibits; individuals in this class will gradually assume a higher level of independence working with the animals and a higher degree of interaction with the public. Work is performed under general supervision. This position needs a basic understanding of enrichment and behavioral husbandry (animal training) principles. This position needs a basic knowledge of AZA and USDA regulations concerning animal welfare that govern operations.
Education and Pre-requisites
Minimum Applicant Qualifications:
A.S. degree in one of the life sciences with at least two years of full-time, paid experience working with animals in an accredited institution;
OR
B.S. degree in one of the life sciences with experience working with animals;
OR
Five years full-time, paid experience working with animals in an accredited institution.
Must possess a valid driver’s license. Will be required to obtain a valid State of Louisiana driver’s license at time of appointment and maintain throughout employment for this classification.
Compensation and benefits
Employer retirement contribution; sick and vacation leave; health, dental, vision, and supplemental insurances offered.
Work hours: 7:30am – 4:00pm, 5 days a week, likely include weekends, holidays and overtime
Annual Salary: $26,332.80 – $39,499.20, dependent on qualifications and experience
Application instructions
APPLY ONLINE AT WWW.GOVERNMENTJOBS.COM/CAREERS/ALEXANDRIALA