The Elephant Managers Association Untitled page

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

Colton Meier — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 00:43:38 GMT

Lead Keeper - Elephants (Animal Training)

Apply at: https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/77B425C21C6E28F6E3B0849B4A14F1B5/jobs/274990

Job Title: Lead Keeper - Elephants (Animal Training)

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Classification: Full-time

Hours: Tuesday - Saturday; 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM with a half day on Thursday

Pay Rate: Range starts at $22.53/hour

Summary:

The Lead Keeper of Animal Training has a core focus on animal training and behavioral management. They also provide daily husbandry and behavioral management for a multigenerational African elephant herd and daily exhibit and building maintenance in a 4+ acre outdoor exhibit space and 25,000 square foot barn within the African Grasslands exhibit. The Lead Keeper of Animal Training is expected to collaborate with the Lead Keeper of Staff Training to ensure all staff and elephant development goals are met. They will perform at a high level in a proactive leadership role and communicate regularly with the area supervisor regarding animal management. They will assist in hiring and the development of departmental goals and plans, as well as aid in establishing work priorities for the department, especially related to husbandry and welfare, and ensure compliance with all zoo policies and procedures. They will help cultivate an understanding of Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium’s mission to inspire, educate, and engage people to serve as lifelong stewards for the conservation of animals and their habitats, while creating a feeling of purpose for the members of the team.

Duties and Responsibilities/Essential Functions (include but not limited to):

Manage and coordinate animal training schedules within daily operations.
Expected to be an active department leader and can be expected to cover department function and emergency response coordination in the absence of Elephant Manager.
Collaborate with the Elephant Manager to establish training priorities and goals for each elephant on a monthly basis.
Collaborate with the Lead Keeper of Staff Training and Elephant Manager to ensure all priorities are being met with the staff, herd, and barn.
Provide input and cost estimates for necessary training and enrichment items for annual budget planning.
Demonstrate the initiative and expertise to regularly find ways to make improvements within the department.
Direct involvement in maintaining records including ZIMS animal records, daily reports, enrichment logs, training logs, welfare assessments, and other required building SOPs.
Assist the Elephant Manager with animal husbandry and welfare protocols.
Contribute to the development of birth transport and introduction plans.
Ensure adherence to regulations according to Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, AZA, and USDA/APHIS.
Knowledge of all functions of the elephant sections of African Grasslands, including animal enclosures/habitats, life support systems, safety concerns, and overall building/grounds maintenance, including ability to problem solve when issues arise.
Competent in all duties, responsibilities, and essential functions of a Keeper and Senior Keeper position.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Proven knowledge of basic training techniques, theory and application. Internal candidates should have completed OHDZA animal trainer requirements.
Expected to have or develop the appropriate level of knowledge of elephant natural history and zoological management of elephants, with an emphasis on least intrusive principles to ensure the best possible physical and psychological well-being of the animals in their care.
Excellent communication skills. Public speaking experience preferred.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team, as well as knowing when to delegate tasks.
Excellent time management and staff/volunteer supervision skill sets.
Creative, positive, and self-motivated.
Ability to collect and identify approved browse species.
Ability to maintain a safe work environment for all staff, guests, and animals in the department.

Candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment background check, drug test, negative TB test, and possess a valid driver’s license with a good history.

Work Environment/Physical Demands:

Will sometimes work extended/odd hours including weekends, holidays and some night programs.
Ability to work outdoors for prolonged periods of time in inclement weather/temperatures on a consistent basis.
Must be able to travel long distances across the zoo, on foot and on motor vehicles.
Must be able to stand for long periods of time.
Must be able to sit, kneel, bend, twist, stoop, crawl, reach above head and climb.
Will lift, push, pull, and/or move up to 50 pounds routinely and occasionally up to 80 pounds using safe and proper lifting methods.

Travel Required:

Some travel may occur

Education and Experience:

Must be at least 18 years of age.
Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Animal Science, Behavior or related field is preferred.
Minimum of 4 years’ experience in an AZA accredited institution or related organization.
Successful completion of AZA’s Principles of Elephant Management I.
Experience with mixed gender and multigenerational herd management, elephant management in a variable climate/seasonal environment, neonate care and calf training, birth and postpartum care, adaptable management considerations, and work environment safety considerations preferred.
Internal candidates should have completed ICS 100 and 700.
Exotic/zoo animal husbandry experience preferred.
Operant conditioning experience with positive reinforcement and adherence to least intrusive principles preferred.
Must possess a valid driver’s license.

DISCLAIMER

The information presented indicates the general nature and level of work expected of employees in this classification. It is not designed to contain, nor is it to be interpreted as, a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and objectives required of employees assigned to this job.

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer as defined by the EEOC.

Zoo Atlanta

Colton Meier — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 23:58:21 GMT

Elephant Keeper I, II, or III (Based on experience)

Apply at: https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=467f6b1e-2b6d-4e48-8560-e11a85e74702&ccId=19000101_000001&lang=en_US&jobId=566617

Job Title: Elephant Keeper I, II or III

Department: Mammals

Reports to: Lead Keeper and Curatorial Staff

FLSA Status: Non-exempt

Job Status: Full-time

Job Summary: Zoo Atlanta’s Elephant Team, part of the Mammal Department, currently cares for 2.2 African elephants and meerkats. In 2019, Zoo Atlanta opened the new African Savanna, which includes a state-of-the-art elephant facility and an expanding elephant program. Animal keepers are responsible for animal welfare and husbandry, including training and enrichment. Additionally, animal keepers are responsible for maintenance of habitats, holdings, and public areas as assigned. The Keeper I, II, and III will report to the area managers and should be willing to serve as a possible point person in the absence of managers.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES, SKILLS, AND RESPONSIBILITES:

Must be willing to support Zoo Atlanta’s strategic plan, mission and values, and work with all zoo staff to support these plans.
Maintain a high-performance level of excellent animal care.
Participate in and support collaborative efforts pertaining to the care of the collection including training, enrichment, research, and education.
Complete behavioral management training provided by Zoo Atlanta and utilize operant conditioning and enrichment techniques.
Complete animal welfare training provided by Zoo Atlanta, participate in animal welfare assessments, and contribute to follow-through on animal welfare action items when necessary.
Effectively monitor health and behavior of the animal collection and communicate changes to supervisor and veterinary staff. Oversee administration of medications as applicable.
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.
Maintain the highest level of safety in the work area through implementation of safety protocols and procedures.
Use positive interpersonal skills to form and maintain professional relationships within the work environment.
Maintain a high-performance level of guest interactions including scheduled on-ground talks.
Takes action to advance and promote department function and productively motivates others to do the same.
Highly proficient at communicating with supervisory staff and co-workers both written and orally.
Write daily reports, logs, animal records, and other records as assigned and serves as a resource for effective record keeping.
Demonstrates the ability to coordinate and supervise activities of interns and volunteers.
Actively assists others in expanding and developing their job knowledge.
Must be able to work independently.
Responsible for special projects, procedures, and goals set forth by the area managers.
Demonstrates the ability to meet challenges with a solution-oriented approach.
Must be dependable and reliable: be timely, be responsive, be organized, meet deadlines, take responsibility, and help other zoo staff as needed.
Promote communication and information sharing between the zoological community.
Employees must strive to decrease our environmental footprint to serve as models to our patrons to do the same through education and example.
Must be able 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 elephant experience and/or related exotic animal care experience is required.
Experience with operant conditioning and enrichment techniques is strongly preferred.
Must have the ability to: demonstrate focus, follow written verbal instructions, effectively promote organization, manage stress to perform the job effectively, remember details, manage time effectively, apply critical thinking techniques, analyze, and solve problems.
Demonstrate computer proficiency to complete the functions of this position.
Must be able to use light power tools after suitable training.
Keeper I
- Prior elephant experience and/or related exotic animal care experience is required. Paid experience at an AZA accredited facility is preferred.
Keeper II
- Prior elephant experience and/or related exotic animal care experience is required.
- A minimum of 3 years prior related, paid animal care experience is required. Paid experience at an AZA accredited facility is preferred.
Keeper III
- Prior elephant experience and/or related exotic animal care experience is required.
- A minimum of 5 years prior, related, paid animal care experience is required. Paid experience at an AZA accredited facility is greatly preferred.

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 with a safe driving record.

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions and have the physical ability to routinely perform strenuous work.
After being properly trained, all keepers working with, or around dangerous animals must be able to carry and utilize OC spray.

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

Perks

Medical, dental, and vision insurance, company-paid life and disability insurance, paid time off (PTO) and holidays, automatic 403(b) enrollment with employer match, employee assistance program (EAP), employee discounts and perks, professional development opportunities.

Salary

$18.70 To $26.06 Hourly

Kansas City Zoo and Aquarium

Colton Meier — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 00:23:47 GMT

Animal Care Seasonal - Elephant Team

Apply at: https://recruitingbypaycor.com/career/JobIntroduction.action?clientId=8a788267543c64a801544fc9f417049e&id=8a7887a19bb400f2019be29bfe863d4b&source=Association%20of%20Zoos%20&%20Aquariums&code=&fromAggregate=false&qToken=&applicant_guid=

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

The Animal Care Seasonal employee performs routine work assignments involving the care of Zoo & Aquarium animals, as well as maintenance of habitats, enclosures, service areas, and animal holding areas. This position performs related work, as required.

This position will work with the Elephant Team, which is responsible for the daily husbandry of African elephants.

This is a seasonal position, working 40 hours a week, beginning the end of February and potentially running through early September. Seasonal start and end dates can vary based upon individual availability and team needs

POSITION DUTIES & ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Duties	Percentage
Assists with the daily care of assigned team’s animals, including: Preparing diets. Observing, logging, and reporting issues concerning animal behavior, health, and welfare. Assisting with training animals for basic husbandry behaviors. Aiding with animal health procedures, under supervision. Assisting with the creation of various enrichment items/strategies.	40%
Assists with daily maintenance of exhibits and holding areas, including: Cleaning habitats, holding stalls and animal areas. Performing minor repairs and improvements of habitats, under supervision. Reporting maintenance issues and potential safety hazards to appropriate manager. Performing lawn and other horticultural maintenance.	45%
Interacts with Zoo & Aquarium guests and staff, including: Performing or assisting with various animal chats and animal shows. Engaging with visitors to answer questions about the Zoo & Aquarium and animals. Learning to work professionally as part of a team.	15%

*This position may at times be requested to perform other duties or special projects as assigned, which are in the best interest of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Additionally, specific duties and percentages may vary slightly between each Animal Care Team.

*All employees must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily and, upon request, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION & FORMAL TRAINING:
- High school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate required.
- Completing coursework for a degree in biology, animal science, zoology, or related field desired.
EXPERIENCE:
- Previous exposure to Zoo and Aquarium animals through internships, seasonal work, or other similar experiences in the care of animals is desired.
- Knowledge of animal behavior and procedures used for the proper care of handling exotic and domestic animals.
- Strong observational skills to recognize and evaluate conditions of animal health, diets, and behavior.
- Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions, including procedures for care and maintenance of animals, habitats, service areas, and holding areas.
- Strong verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills.
OTHER MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
- Must have valid driver’s license.
- Must have or be able to obtain negative TB test.
- Must be able to lift 50 pounds and have sufficient mobility to ensure a safe work environment.
- Must be able to stand for extended periods of time.
- Must be able to manage stress and make immediate decisions concerning the safety of animals, staff, or the public.
- Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and evening hours, in all weather extremes.
- Must pass a background and drug screening.

Salary

$15.25/Hour

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Colton Meier — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 00:21:54 GMT

Elephants Wildlife Care Supervisor

Apply at: https://jobs.dayforcehcm.com/en-US/sdzwa/SafariParkCareersExternal/jobs/24540

HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION
The Wildlife Care Supervisor is responsible for and oversees all aspects of the welfare, safe care, and handling of an assigned wildlife collection and contributes to collection strategic planning. The Wildlife Care Supervisor is responsible for the daily supervision of the staff and the routines to ensure safe care and handling of an assigned wildlife collection. This position reports to the Wildlife Care Manager.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

Lead, manage, evaluate, and develop the performance of animal care staff as assigned and resolve conflicts in a timely and appropriate manner.
Frequently inspect and observe assigned collection for overall health and welfare.
Evaluate, adjust, and coordinate husbandry standards and techniques applied to an assigned animal collection according to a zoological master plan.
Ensure the wildlife welfare standards are upheld and improved upon where necessary according to the organizations Wildlife Welfare Policy.
Ensure proper communication with the Veterinary Team on medical cases and health status of animals within assigned areas.
Ensure use of appropriate wildlife handling, shipment, management and training methodologies for the collection.
Represent the leadership and the animal care divisions in partnership with operations.
Effectively lead their assigned team by providing the support and guidance that enables each team member to be empowered and successful.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Prefer candidate with at least five years of experience with elephant care in a lead or supervisory role

JOB EXPERIENCE
- One or more years’ experience supervising/leading animal department and personnel in an AZA accredited zoo or equivalent facility required.
- Four to six years hands on wildlife care experience required.

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's Degree Bachelor's degree in zoology, animal science, or a related field preferred.
- Current valid California Driver’s License in good standing

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
- Strong working knowledge of Wildlife Welfare.
- Basic taxonomic knowledge.
- Exotic wildlife management and husbandry skills.
- Effective organizational communication and team building skills.
- Effective leadership skills.
- Regulatory and membership agencies and regulations (USDA, USFWS, AZA, CITES etc.) knowledge.
- Able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
- Able to operate computer software programs.
- Demonstrated ability to lead highly effective, diverse teams.

SOME OF THE REWARDS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER

Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Family Passes
Complimentary Tickets
Free Parking at the San Diego Zoo & San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Local and In-House Discounts
Employee Assistance Program
Wellness Program

IMPORTANT DETAILS

Location: Escondido, CA
Position Type: Salaried Full-Time Exempt Position
Salary Range: $77,225 - $96,782

The Elephant Sanctuary

Colton Meier — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 00:19:58 GMT

Education and Outreach Manager

Apply at: https://elephants.com/careers-and-internships

POSITION SUMMARY: The Education and Outreach Manager leads The Elephant Sanctuary’s education, outreach, and volunteer initiatives. This role integrates program development, volunteer management, and community engagement to advance conservation education and strengthen connections with diverse audiences. Key responsibilities include overseeing education and volunteer staff, managing the Elephant Discovery Center, developing innovative outreach and volunteer programs, coordinating events, and expanding training opportunities to position The Elephant Sanctuary as a premier resource in conservation and elephant welfare.
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Communication and Leadership

Positions the Elephant Discovery Center as a local and national resource for learning about elephants and conservation.
Develops long-term education and outreach goals aligned with the Sanctuary’s mission, and with the CEO.
Ensures the Sanctuary’s education programs reach target audiences effectively.
Serves as spokesperson for the Sanctuary’s educational programs, as appropriate.
Represents the organization at conferences and community events.
Recruits, onboards, schedules, develops, and supervises education and volunteer staff.
Measures and reports on the effectiveness and reach of all education, outreach, and volunteer initiatives to inform future strategy.

Outreach and Volunteer Program Management

Directs the Sanctuary Volunteer Program and supports the Volunteer Coordinator as needed.
Leads the expansion of the Volunteer program
Represents the Sanctuary in community organizations and city-sponsored events.
Identifies and pursues outreach opportunities within the local and broader Tennessee community.
Collaborates with Communications and Development teams to cultivate partnerships and support fundraising initiatives.

Elephant Discovery Center

Ensures the Elephant Discover Center operates efficiently and effectively.
Leads the research and development of targeted educational materials and curricula tailored to specific audiences.
Ensures content of educational materials remain current, accurate, and aligned with the Sanctuary’s mission, Next Generation Science standards, and academic requirements.
Assists with developing protocols for learning assessments and program effectiveness using data-driven approaches
Oversees the development of the Sanctuary’s Elephant Discovery Center exhibits, learning lab, public spaces, and associated educational resources, with CEO.
Manages and delivers the Distance Learning program with the Education team.
Manages group visits and meetings at the Discovery Center and supports the Education team as needed.
Oversees the EleCams daily/seasonal public presentation, aligned with the organization’s education and communication objectives.

Resource Development

Assists the CEO and Development team with education resource development for organizational growth.
Develops and implements annual and long-term education budgets.
Assists with grant applications and manages budgets for education and outreach programs.
Supports the identification and submission of education grant proposals.
Performs additional duties as assigned.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND PREREQUISITES:

Bachelor’s degree in education, Non-Profit Management, Wildlife Management, or related field (Master’s Preferred).
3-5 years of leadership experience
5+ years of experience in education and outreach programming, including volunteer management.
Exceptional communication skills
Demonstrated experience with communication technology and relevant software (Zoom, Teams, etc.).
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office suite to include Outlook, PowerPoint, Word and Excel
Bilingual (Spanish) ideal but not required

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Must be on-site in Hohenwald, TN, 5 days per week; includes weekends and occasional evenings.
Primarily sedentary work. Must be able to sit / stand for eight hours.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, with occasional work outdoors in varied weather, and walk on uneven terrain.
Walking, bending, light lifting.

Experience Required

• 3-5 years of leadership experience • 5+ years of experience in education and outreach programming, including volunteer management.

Further Comments

Must be on-site in Hohenwald, TN, 5 days per week; includes weekends and occasional evenings.

Perks

Benefits: o For individuals 100% employer-paid medical, dental, vision o Life insurance, short-term disability, AirEvac, EAP o 401(k) with match o Paid holidays, PTO, sick time o Clothing allowance & professional development.

Salary

Depends upon experience

Fort Worth Zoo

Colton Meier — Sat, 11 Apr 2026 23:53:47 GMT

Elephant Keeper

Apply at: https://jobs.dayforcehcm.com/en-US/fwzoo/CANDIDATEPORTAL/jobs/2987

Summary:
The responsibility of this position is to maintain and care for elephants and other assigned species; to assist veterinary staff as needed; and to perform a variety of activities relative to the assigned area of responsibility.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Feed and water animals in and around existing quarters; clean, sanitize, maintain and repair animal quarters as required; shovel, rake, hose, sweep, dust and mop floors
• Prepare diets for animals; clean and maintain work area and food storage containers
• Maintain adequate records on daily activities; observe animal behavior for signs of illness, weight loss/gain or injury; report any signs of illness or injury
• Assist veterinarians in minor operations or related activity, administer prescribed medications, submit fecal samples and other duties as needed
• Assist in the training of assigned animals; guide animals through daily routines according to established training schedules and guidelines
• Carry out animal diet directives from Nutritional Services Dept; clean and maintain food storage containers
• Participate in the zoo-wide behavioral management program by implementing approved animal training and enrichment projects
• Participate in and implement approved research projects
• Respond to public inquiries in a courteous manner; resolve complaints in an efficient and timely manner; Present keeper talks to park visitors and media as required
• Assist in directing the proper restraint, crating, moving and uncrating of animals
• Properly maintain exhibits, animal facilities, equipment and life support systems (as apply) as trained for specific positions
• Understand and implement operant conditioning as it relates to the daily management of species under his/her care

Qualifications:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Must have one year of zoo keeping experience, elephant zoo keeping experience preferred
• Valid driver license with acceptable motor vehicle record to maintain zoo standards of insurability
• Proof of negative tuberculosis (TB) screening within previous six months prior to placement and annually thereafter
Must possess ability to:
• Work independently in the absence of immediate supervision
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships
• Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities

Education and/or Experience:
• High School diploma or equivalent
• Bachelor's degree in wildlife management, zoology, animal behavior, biology, ecology, psychology or related field preferred
• Specialized training in zoology or a related field desirable but not required

Physical Demands:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. The employee must regularly lift and/or or move up to 75 pounds.

Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
• Team oriented environment
• Ability to work irregular hours (holidays and weekends)
• Exposure to a variety of domestic and wild or potentially dangerous animals; animal odors and animal body fluids
• Exposure to all types of inclement weather conditions
• Exposure to chemicals (cleaning, water chemicals, additives, etc.)
• Ability to work special events and functions as required
• This position may be safety sensitive
• This position may work around animals susceptible to specific diseases, thus may be subject to regular tuberculosis and rabies titer testing, and the routine use of personal protective equipment such as gloves, face masks

Disclaimer
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as a complete inventory of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor.

Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an at-will basis.

Benefits
This is a full-time position and offers the following benefits:
• Medical and Prescription Drug (Employee Coverage 90% Employer Paid, Dependent Coverage 55% Employer Paid)
• Vision
• Dental
• Basic Life AD&D (100% Employer Paid)
• Short Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Long Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Supplemental Life
• Flexible Spending Account
• 401k
• Paid Time Off (Accrual Equivalent to 5 Weeks Per Year)
• PTO Rollover
• PTO Sell Back
• Free Zoo Membership
• Free Guest Passes
• Discounts on Food, Merchandise, Attractions, Admission and Programs

Salary

$18.25 per hour

Cincinnati Zoo

Colton Meier — Sat, 11 Apr 2026 23:51:07 GMT

Animal Keeper - Elephant Dept.

Apply at: https://cincinnatizoo.org/about-us/job-opportunities/

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is seeking an experienced Elephant Keeper to join our Asian Elephant Program. This position plays a key role in the daily care, behavioral management, and long-term success of a multi-generational, breeding elephant herd. The successful candidate will have significant experience with protected contact management, operant conditioning, behavioral observations and problem-solving.

Additional consideration will be given to candidates with hands-on experience managing multiple herds, bulls, introductions, and calf management. We are looking for a highly motivated keeper who excels at teamwork and open communication, and who demonstrates strong situational awareness and professionalism when working with large animals.

Position Benefits:

Union negotiated pay rates, with a starting range between 22.27-28.65 determined by years of field experience.
200 PTO hours accrued throughout the first year of service, 80 of which is loaded into the PTO bank upon hire
Competitive benefit packages and retirement matching programs
Employee Assistance Programs
Facility culture that highlights the following core values:
- Collaborative Relationships
- Pride, Passion, and a Sense of Ownership
- Positivity and Energy
- Accountability, Mutual Trust, and Respect
- Progressive Thinking
Intentional professional development opportunities, for both animal care and "people” skills

Minimum Desired Qualifications:

Preferred candidates will have:

Minimum 3 years professional elephant care experience
Experience working with elephants in a protected contact management system
Demonstrated experience with operant conditioning and positive reinforcement training

Experience with the following is strongly preferred:

Elephant introductions and herd management
Breeding and reproductive management
Calf care and development
Elephant foot care and preventative medical training
Behavioral observation and welfare monitoring
EEHV monitoring or treatment protocols

Additional qualifications:

Degree in Zoology, Biology, Animal Science, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)
Strong understanding of elephant behavior, husbandry, and safety practices
Excellent communication and teamwork skills
Valid driver’s license and ability to meet CZBG employment requirements

Essential Responsibilities

Husbandry & Welfare

Provide daily husbandry care including feeding, habitat maintenance, enrichment, and behavioral observation.
Participate in a protected contact elephant management program following established safety protocols.
Monitor elephant behavior and welfare and report abnormalities to supervisors and veterinary staff.
Maintain clean and safe indoor and outdoor elephant facilities.
Support exercise, enrichment, and environmental management programs that promote natural behaviors and activity.

Behavioral Training

Participate in an operant conditioning program using positive reinforcement training.
Train elephants to voluntarily participate in husbandry and veterinary procedures.
Assist with development and implementation of individual training plans.
Maintain consistent communication with team members regarding training progress and behavioral changes.

Management

Assist in management of a multi-generational elephant herd, including monitoring social dynamics and compatibility.
Participate in elephant introductions and social management under the direction of supervisors.
Assist with breeding management and reproductive monitoring in coordination with veterinary staff.
Support calf rearing and maternal care management.
Participate in husbandry and training programs that support calf development and socialization.
Participate in preventative care practices including:
- Foot care
- Skin care
- Blood collection and trunk washes
- Behavioral medical training
- Maintain accurate daily records related to husbandry, enrichment, behavior, and training.

Team Collaboration

Work collaboratively with elephant team members, veterinary staff, and other animal care departments.
Assist in training and mentoring interns, volunteers, and seasonal staff.
Maintain strong team communication regarding daily operations and animal management.

Guest Engagement

Participate in keeper chats, tours, and other educational programs.
Represent the elephant program professionally when interacting with zoo guests.

Working Conditions: While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; bend; climb or balance; lift, grasp; and negotiate stairs and ladders. In addition, the employee may be exposed to Zoonosis, chemicals, and outside weather conditions; Must be able to lift and move 50 pounds without mechanical assistance; must possess a valid driver’s license (and insurable to drive a Zoo vehicle).  

Position Details: This is a full-time (40 hours per week with benefits) Union keeper position, which is subject to the successful completion of a probationary and the deduction of union dues. This position requires weekend work with regular off-days TBD. This is a 4, 10 hr/day schedule.

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden offers a comprehensive benefits package including affordable medical, dental & vision coverage; 401(k) plan with company match; flexible spending accounts; generous paid time off (vacation, holiday and sick leave); company-paid disability & life insurance; park discounts and free passes.

Perks

Full Benefits

Houston Zoo

Colton Meier — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 01:16:51 GMT

Zookeeper II - Elephants

Apply at: https://jobs.dayforcehcm.com/en-US/houstonzoo/CANDIDATEPORTAL/jobs/3388

A successful candidate for this position is motivated, energetic, and a team-oriented individual with good problem solving written/oral communication, and organizational/interpersonal skills. This candidate will have solid knowledge in operant conditioning, implementation of animal training and enrichment programs, as well as being comfortable with public speaking.

Our Mission: Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife.

Our Vision: Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

Observes and evaluates animal condition, behavior and responses and communicates observations orally and on written reports.
Prepares and feeds appropriate diets, noting conformance of foods provided to diets prescribed for each animal.
Administers prescribed medications and dietary supplements and monitor food and medicine consumption.
Checks on integrity of enclosures and structures, ensuring safety and welfare of animals, Zoo visitors, and staff in accordance with established guidelines.
Maintains live plants within enclosures ensuring neat, attractive exhibits.
Performs minor repairs and preventative maintenance as necessary.
Maintains clean and organized exhibits, equipment, and keeper areas.
Improves the quality of life of the animal collection by providing environmental and behavioral enrichment opportunities.
Trains selected animals through operant conditioning for purposes of gaining cooperation for veterinary treatment and/or public demonstrations.
Installs exhibit furnishings, props, and decorations safely, attractively and in a manner consistent with Zoo guidelines.

Education and Experience

One year of experience in animal care in a zoo setting or under the direction of a licensed veterinarian is required, which may be gained through internships, volunteer experience, or employment.
Extensive domestic animal experience may qualify for substitution for exotic animal management experience.
Specific training and work experience in other settings, such as aquaculture, schools, nature centers, agricultural operations, or conservation centers may be considered on a case-by-case basis as fulfillment for the experience requirements.

ABOUT HOUSTON ZOO

The Houston Zoo is made up of many moving parts with over 6,000 permanent residents (our animals) for whom we provide housing, meals, medical care and, yes, even education! There are over 2 million guests each year who come to experience our incredible variety of animals and ecosystems, as well as attend special private and public events and entertainment. Our dedicated staff works around the clock to ensure that the Zoo is always running smoothly for the safety and well-being of our residents and guests. We strive to ensure the protection of all the counterparts of the animals we have at the Zoo and in the wild.

Join the Houston Zoo and become a part of an organization that is focused on the preservation of wildlife and their habitats by combining conservation with education and promotion of sustainable livelihoods in the local communities. Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer