Aza Norristown , PA 19404
Posted 4 weeks ago
Elmwood Park Zoo
Full-time Animal Keeper
Position: Full Time Animal Keeper
Organizational Relationship:
Reports to: Director of Animal Care
Supervises: Animal Care Volunteers/Interns
Coordinates with: Assistant Curators, Animal Care Staff and Veterinary staff
Summary of Responsibilities:
A highly motivated, skilled individual who will perform tasks associated with the husbandry and maintenance of native and exotic animals in an education and conservation-oriented zoological park. A successful candidate has a collaborative, team-oriented approach to problem solving, exercises good judgment, efficiently manages time, foresees and applies safety precautions, possesses excellent written and oral communication skills, is able to work both independently and in a team environment and maintains confidentiality and Zoo safety protocols. All EPZ staff members are responsible for delivering exceptional guest service by creating positive interactions with guests and staff alike.
EPZ Team Member Responsibilities:
As essential personnel, animal department staff are expected to be available as per business needs which include weekends, holidays, evenings and in inclement weather
Foster an appreciation of wildlife and their habitats that will inspire active participation in conservation
Assist management in ensuring safety, cleanliness, and efficiency in all areas of the operation of the Zoo
Follow and adhere to all policies and procedures and safety protocols for the department and the Zoo
Use proper radio etiquette and adhere to proper uniform attire at all times
Specific Duties and Responsibilities:
Perform diligent observation and daily husbandry of all animals in assigned areas as stated in Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Daily cleaning of exhibits, holding areas, and zoo grounds, as stated in the SOPs
Provides overall care and maintenance of assigned work areas ensuring animal health, welfare and safety, staff safety and public safety through established standard operating procedures for animal care and exhibition as set forth by AZA and USDA
Perform or assist with diet preparation as needed
Recognize and remove toxic plants from animal enclosures
Daily animal record keeping using ZIMS and other tracking logs
Provides animal enrichment in accordance with approved items and schedule
Report maintenance issues and potential safety hazards to appropriate supervisor
Assist in training interns
Daily participation in and consistent application of behavioral husbandry/operant conditioning
Assist with the movement, capture and restraint of animals
Assist veterinary staff with the capture and restraint and treatment of animals as well as administration of prescribed medications and treatments (strictly according to written instructions)
Deliver animal presentations (including virtual) and public speaking when required
Observe for any unsafe acts which would cause harm to a guest, Zoo property, or animal collection
Perform other duties assigned by General Curator, Veterinary Staff, Animal Supervisors or CEO
Responsible for the safety and care of animal collection and zoo guests
Work Environment:
Work assignments are subject to the hazards inherent in caring for wild animals in captivity and may include:
Interaction with a variety of domestic and wild or potentially dangerous animals; animal odors, animal body fluids, cleaning materials, disinfectants, etc.
Inclement weather conditions
This position requires significant amounts of heavy lifting
Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with EPZ staff and volunteers
Ability to work irregular hours as needed including nights, holidays and weekends
Ability to work special events and other functions as required
Qualifications:
Education and Experience:
Minimum of one year of full-time paid non-domestic animal care experience working with diverse taxa including dangerous animals is required, AZA accredited facility preferred
Bachelor's degree in wildlife management, zoology, biology or related field preferred
Proficiency in positive reinforcement training at progressively managed facility
Successful Completion of the San Diego Zoo Global Academy Animal Welfare Professional Course
Other Requirements:
Must have negative TB test and rabies vaccination
Capable of performing strenuous and/or heavy physical labor
Must have good physical strength and endurance including the ability to lift, move and transport up to 60lbs
Able to work outside in all weather conditions
Must be able to work from heights or in confined spaces and have ability to ascend, descend and work from and around stairs and ladders
Must have a valid driver's license
Pay: $18/hour
Identification: Two forms of official valid identification are required. Ability to pass background and child abuse clearances
Salary
$18 hourly
How to Apply
https://www.elmwoodparkzoo.org/animal-keeper/
Elmwood Park Zoo
1661 Harding Boulevard
Norristown, PA 19401
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