Zookeeper

Roles and responsibilities

• Performs daily husbandry tasks including administration of vitamins and medication as directed
• Prepares food, provides proper nutrition and constant care of animals
• Maintains a safe, appropriate and sanitary living conditions for all animal habitats
• Learns behavior modification techniques under the supervision of more experienced colleagues. This includes but is not limited to the training of behaviors to completion, proactively maintaining conditioned behavior, and the ability to form relationships with assigned animals.
• Ensures guests, personal, and animals’ safety through constant monitoring of the behavioral precursors of potentially harmful behavior by both animals and people.
• Provides proactive guest services through guest interactions, animal presentation and programs in the assigned area, and responding to guest inquiries.
• Performs assigned roles in education and general public programs, and guest interaction programs
• Makes daily observations of animals and reports any abnormalities to the leadership team
• Maintains all animal records, equipment, area responsibilities, and communication requirements on a daily basis
• Functions as Ambassador by displaying consideration, tolerance, cooperation, open communication, and reliability; maintains a consistent attitude, motivation, and ability to accept feedback
• Ensures all policies, guidelines, manuals and SOPs are followed at all times
• Consistently practices safe work habits including, but not limited to the use of personal protective equipment, lifting and reporting of unsafe situations
• Participates on the required trainings and maintains profession development and competencies
• Performs other duties as directed by the leadership
  

To be considered for the role, you will need to have:

• High School diploma or equivalent
• 1 year of relatable animal experience in a professional setting
• Good communication skills in English, verbal and written
• Excellent swimming and diving skills (not required for Aviculture)
• Basic mathematical skill
• Basic computer knowledge including MS Office and animal recording system
  

Dynamic Habitat/Aquarium

• Basic understanding of fish, reptile, amphibian and invertebrate husbandry, nutrition and natural history

Desired candidate profile

A Zoological Associate is typically a role in a zoo, wildlife park, or similar setting, focused on assisting with the care, maintenance, and management of animals and exhibits. This role can vary slightly depending on the specific organization, but generally involves supporting the daily operations related to animal care, educational programs, and public engagement.

Here’s an overview of the key responsibilities and skills required for a Zoological Associate:

Key Responsibilities:

1. Animal Care and Welfare

• Feeding and Nutrition: Prepare and distribute food according to the dietary requirements of each species. Monitor animals' health and food intake.
• Habitat Maintenance: Assist in the cleaning and maintenance of animal enclosures, ensuring that habitats are safe, clean, and appropriate for the animals.
• Health Monitoring: Observe animal behavior and health, reporting any signs of illness, injury, or distress to senior zoologists, veterinarians, or animal care managers.
• Enrichment Activities: Help create and implement enrichment activities to stimulate and encourage natural behaviors, reducing stress and promoting physical and mental well-being.
• Animal Handling: Safely handle animals for feeding, routine checks, and transport, depending on the species and protocols.

2. Exhibit Maintenance

• Exhibit Setup and Upkeep: Assist with the design, construction, and upkeep of animal exhibits, ensuring that they are suitable for both the animals and public viewing.
• Aesthetic and Safety Standards: Ensure that exhibits are aesthetically pleasing and meet safety standards for both animals and visitors.
• Assist with Special Exhibits or Events: Support the creation of temporary or special exhibits, assisting with setup, visitor interaction, and tear down.

3. Animal Behavior Observation and Record Keeping

• Data Collection: Track and record data on animal behaviors, health, and breeding, noting any changes that could indicate a problem or developmental milestone.
• Behavioral Observation: Observe and report on animal behavior to understand patterns, monitor their mental health, and ensure their welfare needs are met.
• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records related to animal care, feeding schedules, health status, and any interventions, often using zoo management software or databases.