Village Keeper

Position Overview

This is a full-time staff position responsible for the daily animal husbandry of the Village Department. Works independently and in a team environment to apply highest standards of animal care, enrichment and training. Interacts with the public to educate them about the collection and conservation concerns, providing keeper talks, and encounters. Works closely with the vet staff to maintain animals’ good health and well-being.

Position Goal

To provide exceptional animal care to the park’s collection while creating a memorable and fun guest experience. The keeper is the first line of defense in assuring animal and guest safety. The keeper is the expert on the well-being and needs of each of the animals in the department’s collection.

Responsibilities

• Performs the general daily care of the animals in assigned exhibit and holding areas. Maintains exhibits and holding areas in a clean and presentable condition at all times.
• Carefully observes the animal collection for signs of illness or injury and reports problems to the department Supervisor.
• Works closely with the vet staff to diagnose and treat medical needs of the collection. Assists with examinations, take downs and procedures. Administers prescribed treatments.
• Prepares food in accordance with dietary requirements and restrictions.
• Provides enrichment as agreed to by department management.
• Trains animal collection as possible and for the purpose of educating and entertaining park guests.
• Abides by department or species’ protocols to assure the highest level of keeper and public safety.
• Conducts keeper talks and animal encounters as scheduled by guest services.
• Maintains accurate and complete records as required by department.
• Performs restraint, crating/uncrating and general transport of animals as needed.
• Participates in all zoo activities and events, for example, shows and after hour fund raisers, as required by management.
• Assists in data collection for approved research projects.
• Assists department supervisor as needed.
• Responds to department emergencies to maintain guest and animal safety.

Qualifications

• Able to pass a drug test, including marijuana, and annual tuberculosis test.
• Candidate must agree to a background check.
• At least one-year previous experience working in a drive thru, or other zoo environment preferred.
• At least 2 years college education in a zoological or related field; bachelor’s degree recommended.
• Able to endure extreme weather conditions.
• Able to bend, stoop, crawl and walk on uneven surfaces, and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
• Able to work in team and independently as needed.

Benefits

• Health and dental benefits after 60 days
• Aflac benefits
• Free membership with reciprocal zoo
• 40% off in Restaurant and Gift Shop
• Sick leave and paid time off
• Vet and vehicle services at cost
• Free animal encounters
• Employee parties throughout the year

This is a permanent, full-time position. Applications will be accepted until position is filled.

Wildlife Safari is a drug-free workplace and applicants must pass a drug screen (including for Marijuana) prior to being offered a position.

Wildlife Safari will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Wildlife Safari will not discriminate against any applicant for employment because of physical or mental disability in regard to any position for which the applicant is qualified.