Animal Swing Keeper

wondersofwildlife; Springfield (MO); On-site; USD 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical/Dental/Vision

Company-Paid Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

401(k)

Paid Time Off

Employee Discounts

Job summary

Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium in Springfield, MO, seeks Animal Swing Keepers (Level 1, Level 2, and Senior) to join the Life Sciences team. You will provide hands-on care for a diverse collection and support guest experiences during exhibits and programs.

The role requires a biology-related degree or equivalent experience, animal-care expertise, and ability to lift up to 50 pounds. Growth from Keeper I to Senior Keeper is available within a thriving AZA-accredited facility.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Zoology, Animal Science, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Professional animal care experience in a zoo, aquarium, wildlife facility, sanctuary, or similar setting.
• Knowledge of animal husbandry, enrichment, and behavior training.
• Experience using operant conditioning techniques.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work in various animal care environments.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily care for a diverse collection of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects.
• Prepare diets and support veterinary care programs.
• Maintain exhibits, service areas, and holding spaces to high standards.
• Participate in animal training and enrichment programs.
• Monitor animal health and behavior while maintaining accurate records.
• Assist with guest interactions and educational experiences.
• Collaborate with fellow animal care professionals, interns, and volunteers.

Skills

Animal care

Animal husbandry

Operant conditioning

Teamwork

Communication

Independent work

Education

Biology/Zoology/Animal Science degree

Job description

Animal Swing Keeper 1, 2, or Senior

Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium | Springfield, MO

Work With Some of the Most Unique Animal Species in the Country

Do you have experience caring for mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, or invertebrates and want to make a difference in animal welfare and conservation?

Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium is seeking passionate Animal Swing Keepers (Level 1, Level 2, and Senior) to join our Life Sciences team. This position provides hands‑on care for a diverse animal collection while helping create exceptional experiences for guests at one of America's premier wildlife attractions.

What You'll Do

• Provide daily care for a diverse collection of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects
• Prepare diets and support veterinary care programs
• Maintain exhibits, service areas, and holding spaces to the highest standards
• Participate in animal training and enrichment programs
• Monitor animal health and behavior while maintaining accurate records
• Assist with guest interactions and educational experiences
• Collaborate with fellow animal care professionals, interns, and volunteers

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Zoology, Animal Science, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
• Professional animal care experience in a zoo, aquarium, wildlife facility, sanctuary, or similar setting
• Knowledge of animal husbandry, enrichment, and behavior training
• Experience using operant conditioning techniques
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to work independently with attention to detail
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work in various animal care environments

Why Join Wonders of Wildlife?

• Care for an incredible collection of animal species from around the world
• Work alongside experienced animal care professionals
• Opportunities for growth from Keeper I to Senior Keeper
• Be part of an AZA-accredited organization dedicated to conservation and education
• Make a lasting impact on animal welfare and guest experiences

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Company-Paid Life Insurance
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
• 401(k)
• Paid Time Off
• Employee Discounts at Attractions and Retail Locations

About Wonders of Wildlife

Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium is a world-class conservation attraction featuring more than 35,000 live animals and immersive wildlife experiences. Recognized by USA TODAY as one of America's best aquariums and attractions, Wonders of Wildlife inspires millions of guests through conservation, education, and extraordinary animal experiences.