Job Title: Seasonal Keeper

Department: Mammals (Hoofstock)

Reports to: Lead Keepers and Curatorial Staff

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Job Status: Seasonal/Temporary

Position Dates: This position will have an ASAP hire date and will last until the current full-time Hoofstock Keeper opening is filled. This position is meant to serve as an interim (temporary) keeper and has an unspecified duration.

Job Purpose:

Animal keepers are responsible for animal husbandry (including training and enrichment) and maintenance of habitats, holding and public areas of the assigned department. The Keeper I or II will report to the area lead keeper and Mammal curators. For more information about Zoo Atlanta’s animal, conservation, and research programs visit www.zooatlanta.org.

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 dutiesincluding 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.
• Support and participate in collaborative efforts pertaining to the care of the collection including, but not limited to, 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 Zoo Atlanta 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.
• 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 Zoo Atlanta’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 area managers.
• Support Zoo Atlanta’s conservation and research initiatives.
• Must be dependable and willing to work flexible hours, weekends and holidays.
• 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.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Prior related exotic animal care experience is required for Keeper I position. 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 Georgia driver’s license.

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 able to lift and move 50-pound bags of feed and bales of hay on a routine basis.

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.

Zoo Atlanta is an EOE and provides a Smoke-free and Drug-free Work Environment
From: Zoo Atlanta