Asia Zookeeper: Animal Care & Great Ape Experience

City of Norfolk, VA; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 44,000 - 51,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid holidays

Pension plan

Parking

Job summary

The Virginia Zoo in Norfolk is seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Zookeeper for the Asia section. This role emphasizes animal care, welfare, and safe working conditions for a diverse collection including great apes and other species.

Ideal candidates have AZA experience and are comfortable working with the Asia team; the position requires physical stamina, ability to lift, and strong communication within a collaborative team environment for approximately 40 hours per week.

Qualifications

• Education: four years of college leading to a Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent, or a 2-year associate’s degree with a dedicated zoo keeping or wildlife program.
• One year of experience as a Zookeeper in an AZA accredited institution.

Responsibilities

• Observe animals and monitor medical problems, behavior changes, feeding habits and overall well-being.
• Feed animals as specified by curatorial and veterinary staff.
• Clean, disinfect and maintain exhibits, enclosures, food and water dishes, pools and other areas.
• Keep daily records on each animal and exhibit integrity.
• Supervise interns when required.
• Conduct animal demonstrations for zoo visitors and write educational presentations.
• Handle restraint and capture of animals when needed.
• Lift heavy feed and manure receptacles and walk long distances.
• Communicate effectively in writing and orally and work in a team.
• Work with staff, volunteers, colleagues and zoo visitors in a friendly and professional manner.

Skills

Great ape experience

Animal care

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Associate’s degree in zoo keeping/wildlife

Job description

The Virginia Zoo in Norfolk is seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Zookeeper for the Asia section. This role emphasizes animal care, welfare, and safe working conditions for a diverse collection including great apes and other species.

Ideal candidates have AZA experience and are comfortable working with the Asia team; the position requires physical stamina, ability to lift, and strong communication within a collaborative team environment for approximately 40 hours per week.