Animal Care Specialist – Elephant Team (Full Time)

• Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium

  6800 Zoo Drive, Kansas City, MO 64132

  How to Apply:  https://jobapply.page.link/tKgdN

  Starting Pay:  $16.50/Hour

  Position Description:

  The Animal Care Specialist is responsible for performing routine work assignments involving the daily care and welfare of animals within their area. This position also performs daily maintenance of animal habitats and holding areas, as well as interacts with the public to provide information related to the Zoo & Aquarium’s animal collection. 

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

  Position Duties & Essential Functions:

  Duties	Percentage
  Performs daily animal husbandry activities, including: ·      Preparing diets and delivering animal feedings. ·      Administering medications and assisting with various animal health procedures. ·      Observing, logging, and reporting issues concerning animal behavior, health, and welfare. ·      Training animals for basic husbandry behaviors. ·      Creating and implementing various enrichment items/strategies.	40%
  Completes daily maintenance of exhibits and holding areas, including: ·      Cleaning habitats, holding areas, and staff areas. ·      Performing minor repairs and improvements. ·      Reporting maintenance issues and potential safety hazards to appropriate manager. ·      Lawn and other horticultural maintenance within habitats.	40%
  Maintains daily reports and other required records.	10%
  Interacts with Zoo & Aquarium guests and the public, including: ·      Performing various animal chats and animal presentations, as well as assisting with special events related to assigned area. ·      Engaging with visitors to answer questions about the Zoo & Aquarium and animals.	10%

  *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:

• A.    Education & Formal Training:
• a.     Bachelor’s degree in biology, animal science, zoology, or related field preferred.
• b.    Applicable experience can be substituted in place of formal education on a year-for-year basis for candidates not currently holding a degree.   
• B.    Experience:
• a.     Previous hands-on experience with the care and management of similar species strongly preferred.
• b.    Knowledge of animal husbandry, behavior, procedures for proper care, and training of exotic animals.
• c.     Strong observational skills to recognize and evaluate conditions of animal health, diets, and behavior.

• d.    Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office, required.
• e.     Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions, including procedures for care and maintenance of animals, habitats, service and holding areas.

• f.      Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• C.    Other Minimum Requirements:
• a.     Must have valid driver’s license.
• b.    Must have or be able to obtain negative TB test.
• c.     Must be able to lift 50 pounds and have sufficient mobility to ensure a safe work environment. 
• d.    Must be able to stand for extended periods of time.
• e.     Must be able to manage stress, endure high risk situations when feeding, transferring, or restraining animals, and make immediate decisions concerning the safety of animals, staff, or the public.
• f.      Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and evening hours, in all weather extremes.
• g.     Must pass a background and drug screening.

Zoo Miami is currently seeking a Zoological Supervisor 1 (Apes / Elephants). For more information and to apply, please visit: https://www.zoomiami.org/careers

Zoological Supervisor 1 (Apes / Elephants)

JO#90178

Closes: 11/28/2024

Minimum Requirements: High school diploma or GED. Four years of experience with mammals, reptiles and/or birds in a zoological park or related facility to include one year of supervisory experience are required. Coursework in Zoology, Biology, Ecology or related field may substitute for the required experience on a year-for-year basis to a maximum of two years. Must possess a Driver license.

Recruitment Notes: This is professional work in providing overall daily care, maintenance and inspection of assigned exhibit areas, holding areas, equipment and related public areas to ensure animal health and safety, staff safety, and public safety through standard operating procedures for animal care and exhibition as set forth by AZA, USDA and Zoo Miami; supervises Zoo Miami Keeper Aides and acts as mentor to keepers; supervises staff in the absence of the Supervisor (Zoological Supervisor 2). Zoo Miami is part of the Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department (PROS) and is committed to inspire people through engaging experiences to preserve nature in South Florida and across the globe through our values of being Welcoming, Caring, Fun, Collaborative and Dedicated. 

Dallas Zoo is hiring a Lead Zoologist - Elephants. For more information and to apply, please click here.

JOB SUMMARY
This is a team lead, senior-level position in animal care, following established protocols to provide outstanding animal care for species in the section: food preparation, feeding, exhibit maintenance, pest control, and reproductive management. Zoologists participate in operant conditioning and husbandry programs, provide approved environmental enrichment, work collaboratively to improve animal exhibits, and prepare and conduct educational presentations and tours for zoo guests. Lead Zoologists may act as formal representatives of DZM in AZA Animal programs; will act as team leaders on specific projects, as assigned, or in the absence of a Zoological Manager or Assistant Zoological Manager. Additionally, the Lead Zoologist will provide crucial guidance, mentoring, and training to less senior staff, such as entry-level Zoologists.

 

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Provide overall daily care of assigned animals and exhibits to ensure animal health, safety, and welfare, staff and public safety as set forth by AZA, USDA, and DZM to include:
• Observe and monitor animals’ general health and behavior, reporting any abnormal behavior to manager and/or veterinary staff;
• Prepare and provide food for assigned animals, following written instructions, provide water and administer medication as instructed to ensure proper nutrition and health;
• Clean animal exhibits, holding pens, food prep areas, and equipment, maintaining a high level of sanitation, conducting pest control activities and reporting any mechanical defects that would endanger the animal, zoo staff, and/or guests;
• Achieve the highest standards of animal welfare and wellness by providing environmental enrichment and training sessions, using operant conditioning, as applicable;
• Participate in or assist with the capture and restraint of a variety of taxa including dangerous species
• Prepare and update animal records, reports and surveys, assisting in research projects as necessary to ensure thorough documentation and enhanced knowledge of animal biology;
• Will act as the liaison for ZIMS-related needs including regular meetings with the Zoo Registrar, communicating relevant ZIMS-related information back to the section, and training new staff in the proper use of and data entry into ZIMS
• Perform general maintenance and repair of exhibits: painting, repairing fences and shelters, abating erosion, planting ground cover and removing weeds;
• Provide assistance with animal transfers and/or procedures as directed;
• Interact positively and professionally with animal care and veterinary staff and volunteers;
• Actively encourage interest in wildlife through positive interaction with zoo guests via educational presentations focused on animals, biology, conservation, and environmental issues;
• Utilize the enrichment item/device proposal form to create new enrichment ideas and items to be added to taxa repertoires and properly record the results of enrichment items after each use;
• Collaborate with other zoo personnel as needed to meet the zoo’s mission. This can include, but is not limited to, assisting and participating in media events, special tours, and public relations projects;
• Participate in and support zoo-wide initiatives, committees, and work groups;
• Understand and support Dallas Zoo’s Strategic and Master Plans and departmental collection plans;
• Study specific reference materials pertinent to animal care, behavior and natural history as assigned;
• Follow all safety protocols and understand the animal keeper's role in emergency procedures, responding to emergencies as required;
• Be able to supervise and train volunteers and interns within department as needed; eligible to act as an assigned mentor to interns and volunteers responsible for counseling, coaching, and ensuring follow up on assigned intern/volunteer goals
• Assist with the beautification of our park by removing trash and debris whenever you see it;
• Assist with and raise awareness for AZA SAFE programs;
• Eligible to serve in Chair positions on Dallas Zoo Management internal committees as well as rotating on to the intern selection committee
• Act as an assigned Mentor to entry-level Zoologists in a formal mentorship program including regular check-in meetings, tracking goals, and providing feeding back to Zoological Manager’s to ensure the entry-level staff is progressing appropriately
• Eligible to formally represent Dallas Zoo Management in AZA Animal Program roles including Institutional Representative, committee member, Studbook Keeper, SSP Coordinator, etc.
• In the absence of Zoological Manager or Assistant Zoological Manager, may be needed to act as the section representative or contact for animal management or veterinary needs. Additionally, will coordinate the safe animal capture, restraint, and veterinary procedures for non-routine procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• An Associate’s degree in an animal science, biology, or related science field plus six years of paid animal care experience is required; A Bachelor’s degree in an animal science, biology, or related science field plus five years of paid animal care experience is preferred
• Must have knowledge of animal care and basic husbandry skills, and at least five years preferred of exotic animal care experience at an AZA-accredited facility (ideally with elephants);
• Must be a flexible, efficient, self-motivated team player, and solution-oriented: finding creative solutions to complex challenges;
• Must be able to fully cross-train throughout entire assigned section
• Must have basic knowledge of research techniques and practices, with solid observation skills;
• Must be capable of practicing, or willing to learn, safe methods of capture and restraint for a variety of taxa (which may include potentially dangerous species);
• Must be able to establish and maintain an effective rapport with all levels of management, employees, interns, volunteers, and zoo guests;
• Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, following instructions and documenting animal care activities appropriately;
• Ability to represent the Zoo in a professional manner at all times;
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in emergency situations and to respond with appropriate action;
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationship with management, other employees & zoo guests;
• Must be able to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull bend, climb stairs and ladders and carry up to 50 lbs;
• Must be able to work holidays and weekends, both regular and irregular hours as required;
• Regular, reliable and punctual attendance is an essential function of this position;
• Must be able to actively work outdoors in hot or inclement weather;
• Successful candidates must complete pre-employment drug screening, background check and TB test;
• Must have a valid driver’s license to operate zoo vehicles and reliable transportation.

 

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by personnel assigned to this job and is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all duties to be assigned. 

The International Conservation Center is hiring an Elephant Keeper. For more details and to apply, please visit https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=e50aac5d-42b4-47ec-9c8b-c2bec46ca8a7&ccId=19000101_000001&lang=en_US&selectedMenuKey=CareerCenter&jobId=544238

Summary:

The International Conservation Center is located on approximately 1,000 acres surrounded by the rolling hills of Somerset, PA.  We are looking for a dedicated, safety conscious and team oriented individual to help us advance our elephant program.  This is an exciting opportunity to join in promoting conservation and providing exemplary care for our breeding herd of African elephants at our unique facility.

 

Purpose:

To provide care to the elephant collection at the ICC and other species as assigned.

 

Essential Job Functions:

 

Duties include but are not limited to:

 

• Diet preparation, husbandry, training, observation and record keeping.
• Maintain and clean in and around animal habitats and inspect perimeters for security.
• Assist veterinarian in animal examination and treatment and provide medical care as prescribed.
• Assist in the collection of data for research studies.
• Assist in animal restraint and transportation as required. 
• Speak to guests and conduct tours for educational programs.
• Participate in training programs at the ICC or other locations.
• Assist in providing training to staff or volunteers as requested.

 

 

Performance Factors:

• Safety:  The employee exercises caution and follows safety protocols in all aspects of the job.
• Attendance and Dependability:  The employee can be depended on to report to work at the scheduled time, complete work in a timely, accurate and thorough manner and is conscientious about assignments.
• Communication and Contact: The employee communicates effectively both verbally and in writing with supervisors, colleagues, guests, and vendors inside and outside the ICC.

• Working Relationships:  The employee exhibits a professional manner and relates well with others. The employee works to maintain constructive working relationships with coworkers and to develop an effective training partnership with the animals based on respect and positive reinforcement.

 

Education/Experience/Knowledge/Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in animal science or related field and 3 years professional paid experience working with elephants or 5 years professional paid experience working with elephants in lieu of a degree.  
• Experience with bulls and calves is desirable. 
• Knowledge of operant conditioning.
• Knowledge of personal computer and general office equipment required. 
• Knowledge of or ability to learn to operate heavy machinery.

 

 

Physical Requirements:

This position is required to work in all weather conditions in a farm setting.  May be required to lift, carry, push and/or pull up to 50 pounds unassisted.   

Zoo Miami Keeper 1 (Animal Care Specialist 1) 

Now is a great time to join our family and be a part of Zoo Miami’s dynamic future as we strive to “To Inspire people through engaging experiences to preserve nature in South Florida and across the globe”. Zoo Miami is focused on five key commitments: Conservation, Our Team, Our Animals, Our Guests, and Our Community through our core values of Welcoming, Caring, Fun, Collaborative and Dedicated.

Zoo Miami is proud to be active in many global wildlife and environmental conservation initiatives and is involved in over 36 projects taking place on six continents. The largest and oldest zoological garden in Florida, Zoo Miami is the only tropical zoo in the continental United States, occupying almost 750 acres (340 developed), the Zoo is home to approximately 2,500 animals representing nearly 400 different species.

Summary:

Zoo Miami currently has a full-time Animal Care Specialist 1 (Zoo Miami Keeper 1) position available.  We are searching for team-oriented candidate that will be engaging and deliver exceptional customer service by creating friendly and positive interactions with all guests and co-workers.  

This position reports directly to an Animal Care Supervisor of Elephants. This team works primarily with our African and Asian Elephants but may also work with other exotic species including potentially dangerous animals. 

Daily responsibilities/duties include, but are not limited to:

Provides overall care and maintenance of assigned work areas ensuring animal health and safety, staff safety and public safety through established standard operating procedures for animal care and exhibition as set forth by AZA, USDA and Zoo Miami.  

Observes animals, inspects exhibit and off exhibit enclosures; prepares daily zoo keeper reports, and notes on any changes in behavior, diet, sickness, reproductive status, body condition.

Feeds animals in accordance with nutritional and behavioral requirements as specified by curatorial staff; administers medications; participates in capturing, crating and transporting animals; participates in approved scientific research and educational projects.

Assists with animal behavior training and operant conditioning of outreach animals; attends training classes as required by the Enrichment and Training Coordinator.

Cleans, disinfects and maintains animal exhibits, enclosures, food and water dishes, pools and other areas.  Performs routine maintenance and upkeep of assigned work areas ensuring that all fence lines are free of weeds and service areas are mowed.

Must deliver exceptional customer service by engaging with guests on a regular basis to create a friendly, memorable and positive experience; give educational and conservation oriented keeper talks to the public.

Must have knowledge of behavioral characteristics and handling procedures for assigned animals.

Must have very good oral and written communication skills. 

Must be able to work independently and in a team environment.

Requires normal hearing and seeing capabilities, ability to stand, bend, lift, stoop, push and pull.

Must be able to use tools and operate small equipment.

May have to lift up to 50 lbs.

Minimum Qualifications: High school diploma or GED. One year of experience working with non-domestic animals, reptiles, or exotic birds is required. Completion of related coursework may substitute for the required experience on a month-for-month basis. Must possess a Driver license. Must be able to work days, nights, holidays, and weekends on avaried work schedule.

Preferred Qualifications:  Bachelor’s degree in zoology or a related field and four (2) years of experience in an accredited facility is highly preferred.  

Pay: Minimum $43,366.73-Maximum $72.557.73

This is a full-time hourly position with excellent benefits as an employee of Miami-Dade County.  

IMPORTANT:  In order to be considered for this position you MUST apply online through the Miami-Dade County Human Resources website, http://www.miamidade.gov/humanresources/jobs.asp  and search for Zoo Miami Keeper 1,Job Opening # 89271

NOTE: Additionally, County applications now allow you to attach a resume. Therefore, prior to submitting your application, please make sure your resume is updated with your current and previous position(s) to include details of duties performed and responsibility. However, please also make sure the application details (all tabs) are completed in full.

Applications will be accepted until close of business on October 7,2024

 

For more information and to apply, please visit https://app.jobvite.com/j?cj=ohfqufwa&s=EMA

JOB TITLE:                      ASSOCIATE CURATOR OF LARGE MAMMALS

 

REPORTS TO:                SENIOR CURATOR

 

DEPARTMENT:               SAVANNA/LARGE MAMMALS

 

DATE:                              August 2024

 

JOB SUMMARY 

This is a supervisory position in animal care, working closely with the Senior Curator, as well as the other Associate Curator, overseeing a progressive department of animal care professionals, managing animals and associated facilities of the assigned department. The Associate Curator provides leadership and supervision to animal care staff. This position will be responsible for the team’s training and development, implementing effective animal management practices, and accomplishing the management goals of the department. Significant elephant experience is preferred.

 

 

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

 

• Develop, implement, and supervise safe, proper protocols for all aspects of care for the assigned animal collection including sanitation, health, nutrition, reproduction, behavior, and behavioral husbandry and overall well-being.
• Cooperatively develop and implement comprehensive collection plans for each species of the department under the supervision of the Senior Curator.
• As needed, coordinate animal acquisitions and deaccessions, in support of Dallas Zoo’s Institutional Collection Plan, liaising effectively with AZA animal programs. 
• Direct and monitor the activities of the Zoological Managers, Assistant Zoological Managers, and Zoologists; implement training programs in all areas of animal care, facilities maintenance and operation and professional development.
• Actively recruit zoologist staff, interns, and volunteers; support Senior Curator to strategically develop a dynamic team of animal care professionals.
• Communicate and lead DZM management policies, train staff in safety and security protocols. 
• Supervise maintenance of a ZIMS-based records system documenting activities and events within the Savanna’s animal collection; prepare required reports summarizing department activities.
• Collaborate and support veterinary staff in the medical care of the designated animal collection.
• Collaborate in production of interpretive graphics associated with animal exhibits.
• Collaborate with the facilities department; manage buildings, exhibits, holding areas and grounds of relevant areas; assist in prioritization and coordination of needed maintenance.
• Assist in design and implementation of building renovations and new exhibit construction.
• Participate in research as assigned, and/or produce popular or scientific papers concerning biology and captive management of wild animals.
• Assist with identifying budgetary requests, including capital improvements and major maintenance. Monitor expenses of time and material projects, minor tools and equipment, professional services, animal transportation; Assist the Senior Curator in administering the departmental budget.
• Represent the Department and/or DZM at professional meetings, conferences or in the media as required.

 

• Follow all safety protocols, understand the Curator’s role in emergency procedures, and serve as a member of Dallas Zoo’s Emergency Response Team.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

 

QUALIFICATIONS

• A bachelor’s degree in biology or related science field is preferred; graduate degree desirable.
• Must have extensive knowledge of animal husbandry. With a degree, at least nine years of exotic animal care experience at an AZA accredited facility. Without a degree, eleven years of exotic animal care experience at an AZA accredited facility.
• Five years of AZA supervisory experience.
• Significant elephant experience is preferred.
• Must be solution-oriented, finding creative solutions for complex challenges.
• Demonstrated interest and expertise in management and reproduction of diverse mammal species.
• Comprehensive knowledge of mammal reproduction, as well as neonate care. 
• Comprehensive knowledge of behavioral management, including operant conditioning philosophy, techniques and terminology, as well as benefits and goals of environmental enrichment.
• Incumbent should have broad interests in research, behavior and conservation.
• Excellent facilitation, as well as communication skills, both oral and written.
• Comfort with computer software: MS Word, Excel, Outlook, Power Point.
• Ability to represent the Zoo in a professional manner at all times.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in emergency situations and to respond with appropriate action.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision, must be self-directed.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationship with management, other employees & zoo guests.
• Must be able to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull, bend, climb stairs and ladders and carry up to 50 lbs.;
• Must be able to work holidays and weekends, assuming and performing similar duties at regular and irregular hours as required
• Must be able to actively work outdoors in hot or inclement weather.
• Successful candidates must pass pre-employment drug screening, background check and TB test.
• Must have a valid driver’s license to operate zoo vehicles and reliable transportation. 

 

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by personnel assigned to this job and is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all duties to be assigned.

Elephant Handler (Junior position)

African Lion Safari, located in Ontario Canada, maintains one of the most successful conservation programmes for Asian elephants in North America. By participating in research and conservation projects, African Lion Safari’s goal is to continue its successful conservation programme for the endangered Asian elephant to conserve these magnificent animals for future generations.

We are looking for euthusiastic caregivers and conservationalists to join our team!

Duties and Responsibilities:

- Daily cleaning of animals and enclosures 

- Preparing feed and assisting in the feeding of animals

- Operating farm equipment

- Assisting in repairs of fencing and housing

- Responsible for maintaining the highest level of workplace safety through the implementation of safety protocols and procedures

- Monitor animal behaviour and appearance 

- Participate and assist in conservation and research projects

- Assist Elephant Handlers in elephant-related tasks

- Observe and learn from Elephant Handlers in regards to elephant training and husbandry 

- Carry out additional tasks not specifically listed above that are necessary for the care of the elephants

Skills and Qualifications: 

- Have strong communication skills

- Capable of managing multiple tasks at once, adept at working in an environment with frequent interruptions and shifting priorities, skilled at prioritizing responsibilities as needed, and proficient in time management.

- Physically fit, team player, friendly and outgoing 

- Driver’s licence 

- Farm/livestock/large animal experience an asset

- Relevant education and experience in animal care and conservation an asset

- Keen interest in conservation, research, and animal behaviour 

 

Position requires weekend and holiday work.  44 hours per week plus overtime.  Candidate  must be willing to relocate and apply for a working VISA.

For more information, please contact Taryn Prosser, Assistant Superintendent of Elephants, at erc@lionsafari.com

The National Zoological Park and Conservation Biology Institute is looking to fill the role of Supervisory Biologist (Curator) for Elephants. At the National Zoological Park (NZP) in Washington, D.C., the incumbent is responsible for maintaining excellence in all aspects of the Asian Elephant program as well as other collection animals as assigned. Duties include the direct supervision of the area staff, oversight of the care and welfare of the elephant herd, supporting excellence in the education and science programs associated with the elephant program, and generally serving as an engaged member of the Animal Care Sciences curatorial team.

See attached posting on the USA Jobs website:

https://www.usajobs.gov/job/806509600

Disney's Animal Kingdom is looking for a full-time, salaried Animal Keeper to join their Elephant team. To apply and get more details, please visit: https://www.disneycareers.com/en/job/lake-buena-vista/animal-keeper-elephants/391/68009120512

About the Role & Team

Walt Disney's legacy of caring for animals and the environment is a way of life for Walt Disney Parks & Resorts and our Guests.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is looking for candidates for an Animal Keeper position on the Elephant team. You will work closely with a team of keepers to perform daily care of the collection following established guidelines.

This is a full time, salaried role reporting to a team of Zoological Managers.

What You Will Do

• Maintain the care, well-being, management, behavioral conditioning and enrichment of a multi-generational, mixed sex herd of African elephants.
• Ensure the daily routines of cleaning, animal observation, diet preparation and reporting medical needs and abnormal conditions to Zoological Managers.
• Maintain daily records, collecting and logging information and ensuring this information is communicated to management and the central animal record keeping system.
• Be open to physical labor in ambient outdoor temperatures and weather conditions in Central Florida, which may include extreme heat and humidity.
• Work well in a team environment.
• Partner with maintenance, operation managers, horticulture, veterinary staff, educators and scientists.
• Provide animal information and conservation messages through guest and cast interaction.
• Keep a flexible schedule, working a variety of shifts including early morning start times (5AM) or late evening ending times (12AM) and may be required to work weekends and holidays.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Proven experience working with large mammals focused on general husbandry, enrichment, and exposure to operant conditioning techniques in the field, as well as observation, evaluation and data collection skills as it relates to the daily management and research of the species in their care.
• Three years paid experience as a keeper in an AZA accredited institution, or in an institution with equivalent standards.
• Comfortable lifting up to 50 pounds as needed in the work area.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with Elephants.
• An advanced understanding of operant conditioning.
• Previous experience providing guest service and guest interaction opportunities throughout your workday.

Education

Minimum of one of the following:

– Three years paid experience as a keeper in an AZA accredited institution, or in an institution with equivalent standards, and at least two years of verifiable college course work (60 semester hours)

OR

– Four years paid experience as a keeper in an AZA accredited institution, or in an institution with equivalent standards, and at least one year of verifiable college course work (30 semester hours)

OR

– Five years paid experience as a keeper in an AZA accredited institution, or in an institution with equivalent standards

Benefits & Perks

Disney offers a rewards package to help you live your best life. This includes health and savings benefits, educational opportunities, and special extras that only Disney can provide. Learn more about our benefits and perks at https://jobs.disneycareers.com/benefits.

North Carolina Zoo is currently seeking two elephant keepers to join their team. For more information and to apply, please visit: 

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/northcarolina/jobs/4568828/zookeeper-elephants?keywords=zookeeper&pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs

***Pay Grade NC05 - Recruitment Range - $32,000 - $43,800***

Positions: 60033451 & 60033415
Re-posting - All previous applicant must reapply to be considered

Primary Purpose of this Position:
The NC Zoo is seeking two enthusiastic team members to be part of its Watani Grasslands section working with African elephants. Responsibilities include the daily assessment and care of elephants both on-habitat and off-habitat animal areas. 

Daily duties also include:

• Systematic observation of animal health and behavior. Participation in a behavior focused program that utilizes trust based relationships, animal choice and control, and positive reinforcement operant conditioning to work cooperatively with the elephants to provide optimal care.
• Participation in the Elephant Care Specialist staff development program which is based on proficiency.  The program provides a framework for learning and the ability to achieve greater opportunities and responsibilities for improving the care and management of the elephants.
• Development and implementation of a holistic behavioral management program which utilizes training, enrichment, variability, and research to provide a dynamic environment for optimal welfare.
• Heavy lifting of hay, grain, manure, substrates, etc; heavy duty cleaning and scrubbing is a routine occurrence.
• Record keeping for computer databases.
• Participation in NC Zoo programs, to include: behavioral management, enrichment and Environmental Management System (EMS) programs.
• May be assigned to work with other animal species in other work units as needed.

Position/Physical Requirements:

• Job offer is contingent upon passing a pre-employment screen conducted by assigned provider.  
• Required to participate in the zoo's occupational health program due to potential exposure to zoonosis.
• Must be able to work a rotating schedule that involves working weekends, holidays and after regular work shifts.
• Position is considered "Essential/Mandatory Staff" requiring work on adverse weather days and during zoo emergencies.
• Must be able to capture, handle and restrain live exotic and potentially dangerous animals and use associated capture equipment.
• Must have the ability to perform strenuous physical work with alertness to surroundings in extremes of weather and challenging physical environments with or without an accommodation .
• Must be able to frequently lift up to 50 lbs with or without an accommodation.
• Must have, or be able to obtain, and maintain a valid NC driver's license to drive a state vehicle.

Learn about the NC ZOO: https://www.nczoo.org   
Learn about employee perks/benefits: https://oshr.nc.gov/state-employee-resources/benefits 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities / Competencies

**To receive credit for your work history and credentials, you must list the information on the application form. Any information omitted from the application form, listed under the text resume section, or on an attachment will not be considered for qualifying credit.**

• Demonstrated hands-on animal care experience with elephants and/or large potentially dangerous animals at an AZA accredited zoo, sanctuary setting or related facility to include the following:             

1. Positive reinforcement based operant conditioning
2. Environmental enrichment
3. Observing and understanding the complexities of animal behavior, including individual animals and larger social context

• Demonstrated experience of animal husbandry to include thorough working knowledge of biology, including animal anatomy, physiology, ecology, behavior and safe practices around dangerous animals and mammals gained from working at an AZA accredited zoo, sanctuary setting or related facility.
• Demonstrated experience with record-keeping.
• Demonstrated experience using computers and MS Office.
• Proven communication skills such as visitor interactions, public speaking, reporting and/or team interactions.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

Some state job postings say you can qualify by an “equivalent combination of education and experience.” If that language appears below, then you may qualify through EITHER years of education OR years of directly related experience, OR a combination of both. See oshr.nc.gov/experience-guide for detail.

Bachelor's degree in biology, zoology, natural sciences,

or related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution and

one year of experience working in a zoo-based or related animal care facility;

or

an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Supplemental and Contact Information

Primary Purpose of the Organizational Unit: 
The North Carolina Zoo exists for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of all of North Carolina's citizens and visitors to the zoo. The mission of the zoo is to encourage the understanding of and commitment to the conservation of the world's wildlife and wild places through the recognition of the interdependence of people and nature. The Zoo displays, conserves and protects representative examples of natural beauty, plant and animal species and ecological features of the North American and African regions of the world through the presentation of live animal exhibits from these regions.
 
Department Information:
The Department of Natural and Cultural Resources' (DNCR) vision is to be the leader in using the state's natural and cultural resources to build the social, cultural, educational and economic future of North Carolina. Our mission is to improve quality of life by creating opportunities to experience excellence in the arts, history, libraries and nature throughout North Carolina.  The Department works to stimulate learning, inspire creativity, preserve the state's history, conserve the state's natural heritage, encourage recreation and cultural tourism, and promote economic development.  Our goal is to promote equity and inclusion among our employees and our programming to reflect and celebrate our state's diverse population, culture, and history by expanding engagement with diverse individuals and communities. We encourage you to apply to become a part of our team. Visit - https://www.ncdcr.gov/

The Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) selects applicants for employment based on required education and experience and job-related knowledge, skills, and abilities without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age (40 or older), disability, National Guard or veteran status, genetic information, political affiliation or political influence.
 
Please be sure to complete the application in full. Resumes may be uploaded with your application, but will not be accepted in lieu of a fully completed application and will not be considered for qualifying credit.  "See Resume" or "See Attachment" will NOT be accepted.
 
Degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.  Transcripts, and degree evaluations may be uploaded with your application.
 
To obtain veterans preference, you must scan and upload a copy of your DD-214 or discharge orders.
 
Technical issues submitting your application, please call the NeoGov Help Line at 855-524-5627.
 
Applicants requesting and receiving an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) are eligible to submit paper applications via mail or by fax.  Please call the human resources office for assistance.
 
If multiple applications are submitted to an individual posting, only the most recent application received prior to the closing date will be accepted. Applications must be submitted by 5:00 PM on the closing date.
 
Due to the volume of applications received, we are unable to provide information regarding the status of your application over the phone. To check the status of your application, please log in to your account.  Upon the closing date, applications are "Under Review" and will be screened by Human Resources for the qualified applicants. The hiring process may take an average of 6 – 8 weeks.  
 
It is the policy of the State of North Carolina and the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources that all employees provide proof of employment eligibility (immigration and naturalization) on the first day of employment.   We participate in E-Verify (Employment Eligibility Verification System).
 
CONTACT INFORMATION: 
 N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
 Division of Human Resources
 Ellie Meadows
 4401 Zoo Parkway
 Asheboro, NC 27205
 336-879-7310
 employment@dncr.nc.gov

Please visit our website at www.nczoo.org for more information regarding our facility.