Facility

Utica Zoo

Closing Date

Description

This position is being posted again with an updated deadline. All previous applicants are still being considered and need not apply again.

Job Title: Keeper 2
Department: Animal Care
Reports to: Keeper IV-Lead Keeper and Animal Department Managers
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Job Status: Full-time
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. The Keeper II will report to the Keeper IV-Lead Keeper and Animal Department Managers.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES, SKILLS, AND RESPONSIBILITES:

Monitor health and behavior of the animal collection and communicate changes to supervisor and veterinary staff. Oversee administration of medications as applicable.
Maintain a high-performance level of general keeper duties including excellent animal care and guest interactions.
Strong interpersonal skills to form and maintain positive relationships within the work environment.
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 with the willingness to provide constructive feedback.
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 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.
Demonstrate the ability to coordinate and supervise activities of interns and volunteers.
Work to meet and exceed the Association of Zoos and Aquariums guidelines for animal welfare.
Communicates effectively with supervisory staff and co-workers, both written and orally.
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.
Must be dependable and willing to work flexible hours, weekends and holidays.
Keeper II will show ability to gain additional responsibilities above a Keeper I. This may include coordination of programs or service on committees.
Keeper II would be eligible for participation in SSP and studbook management, at the approval of the Utica Zoo and AZA.
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.

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.
MISC:
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 the immediate supervisor or other management. The company reserves the right to revise or change job duties as business requirements dictate. It is mutually agreed that this job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

Utica Zoo is an EOE and provides a Smoke-free and Drug-free Work Environment

Education and Pre-requisites

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.
DRIVING REQUIREMENTS:

Must obtain and maintain a valid New York driver’s license within six months of employ.

Compensation and benefits

From $13.20 per hour

Benefits: Dental insurance, Employee assistance program, Employee discount, Health insurance, Health savings account, Paid time off, Retirement plan, Vision insurance

Application instructions

Please submit your resume and cover letter to:
Email: HR@UticaZoo.org
Fax: 315-738-0475
Mail: Utica Zoo
1 Utica Zoo Way
Utica, NY 13501