Animal Keeper

Association Of Zoos & Aquariums; Peoria (IL); On-site; USD 41,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The Peoria Zoo is seeking an Animal Keeper responsible for the care and maintenance of animals. Candidates should have a degree in a related field or equivalent experience. The role includes animal care, training, and maintenance of exhibits. Benefits include paid time off, health insurance, and retirement programs.

Benefits

Paid sick days

Vacation days

Longevity bonus programs

Exceptional health plan

Paid Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

Qualifications

• One year of full-time experience in animal care required.
• Comprehensive understanding of animal training through positive reinforcement.

Responsibilities

• Care for wild and domestic animals in the Zoo’s collection.
• Assist in animal training sessions and maintain accurate records.
• Perform routine maintenance tasks for exhibits.

Skills

Animal Care

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Four year college degree in related field

Job description

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Interested in a career in AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums? Learn more about types of zoo and aquarium jobs and relevant education programs in our career center .

Peoria Zoo/Peoria Park District

Animal Keeper

OVERVIEW

Under the supervision of the Curator of Animals, the Animal Keeper is responsible for a number of specific tasks as outlined below under responsibilities.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• In the absence of the Curator of Animals, contact veterinary service in case of emergencies, procure essential supplies, and communicate with appropriate senior staff members when problems arise.
• Assist and mentor Animal Keepers to achieve the highest level of well-being by facilitating animal training sessions including evaluations and staying current on industry standards and best practices.
• Perform Animal Keeper duties for species/exhibits assigned by supervisor.
• Care for the wild and domestic animals in the Zoo’s collection.
• Assist in the handling of animals, distribution of medications, assist in surgery, and record keeping of medications to the assigned string.
• Maintain accurate records and paperwork necessary to maintain a captive animal population.
• Participate in behavioral enhancement for the animal collection.
• Report emergencies and unusual situations to appropriate personnel.
• Perform routine maintenance tasks as needed. Assist in exhibit repair and construction. Ensure exhibits are properly maintained for the species displayed and the general public.
• Assume responsibility for knowing, being trained, and following all safety procedures that pertain to the duties performed. Support all aspects of the Park District’s safety program.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Experience Required

SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES WILL HAVE• Four year college degree in related field. Although a degree is preferred, extensive experience in a like position with similar duties and responsibilities may be substituted for all or part of the educational requirement.• One year of full-time experience in the care and maintenance of wild and/or domestic animals required. A combination of education and experience may substitute. Comprehensive understanding of and proven successful performance of animal training through positive reinforcement.• Basic knowledge of characteristics, diet, habits and well-being of wild and domestic animals.• Aptitude for on-the-job training and ability to follow written and oral instructions.• Ability to work harmoniously with the public and fellow employees in a positive and cooperative manner.• Must be dependable, courteous and able to work with people of all ages.• Ability to be professional, respectful, accountable, innovative, to follow safety procedures, and be equitable to both internal and external customers.• Requires a valid Illinois State Driver’s License.• This position is represented by the AFSCME, AFL-CIO’s Local Union No. 3774.

BENEFITS AND PERKS • Paid sick days, vacation days and holidays. • Longevity bonus programs and wellness programs. • Pension and retirement programs and Social Security participating. • Exceptional health plan. • Paid Life Insurance. • Disability Insurance. • Full-time employees and dependents enjoy discounted recreation classes and free admission to select Park District facilities.

Starting Salary $41,313.00

How to Apply

HOW TO APPLY

• View Employment Opportunities and complete an online application in the “Join Our Team” section at www.peoriaparks.org .
• Applicants may submit a resume, but to be fully considered for this position an online application must be completed.
• While we appreciate all submissions, due to high volume, only those applicants who are selected for interview will be contacted.
• Applications will be reviewed until position is filled.

The Peoria Park District hires without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, pregnancy, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service, protected veteran status or on the basis of any characteristic protected by law.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

Peoria Zoo/Peoria Park District
1125 W. Lakes Avenue
Peoria, IL 61603