Full-Time Animal Keeper

Association Of Zoos & Aquariums; Erie (Erie County); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The Erie Zoo seeks two Full-Time Animal Keepers to ensure stellar care of its diverse animal species. Ideal candidates will possess strong animal care experience, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to animal welfare. This role includes physical tasks in various weather conditions, requiring flexibility and teamwork.

Benefits

401K with 6% employer match after one year

Health, Dental and Vision insurance

Life Insurance (company paid)

Employee Assistance Program (company paid)

Full PTO at 1 year of service

Zoo Gift shop discount of 40%

Discounts on zoo events

Free YMCA individual membership

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years’ paid experience in a zoo setting required.
• Experience with hoof stock, primates, and small carnivores preferred.
• Ability to perform physical tasks including lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for daily animal husbandry for various species.
• Work independently and as part of a small team as needed.
• Operate a variety of equipment, vehicles, and power tools.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Animal care experience

Education

College degree in biological science

Job description

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Full-Time Animal Keeper

The Erie Zoo is looking for two hardworking, self-motivated, and experienced animal care team members to join our team of Animal Keepers. Our zoological park is composed of 15 acres and is home to over 400 animals and thousands of botanical specimens. The Erie Zoo participates in multiple SSPs and SAFE programs and is actively investing in multiple capital projects over the next five years, including a new state-of-the-art veterinary center.

The ideal candidates will be professional, have top-notch communication skills, and excellent attention to detail. Successful candidates will take pride in their work and in all the animals under their care. Our Keepers work independently and occasionally as part of a small team as needed.

Each position will be responsible for carrying out all aspects of daily animal husbandry for a variety of species including small carnivores, reptiles, birds, large hoof stock, and small primates. The specific assigned area will be determined based on the needs of the zoo and on the species/animal experience of the candidates.

**For these positions, we strongly prefer experience with hoof stock, primates, and small carnivores**

Physical requirements include frequent standing and walking, frequent lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds, reaching, bending, kneeling, twisting, and climbing. The work environment is indoors & outdoors and includes working in inclement weather at times. Operation of a variety of equipment, vehicles, and power tools is required. All successful candidates must pass a pre-employment background check, drug screening, physical, and annual TB test.

Applicants must be able to work weekdays, weekends, holidays, and some overtime as needed. A college degree in biological science is preferred but not required. A minimum of two years’ paid experience in a zoo setting is required.

Compensation and Benefits

Starting rate of $11.50-$14.50 per hour (range may be adjusted based on prior experience)

401K with 6% employer match after one year

Health, Dental and Vision insurance (affordable employee contributions)

Life Insurance (company paid)

Employee Assistance Program (company paid)

Full PTO at 1 year of service

Zoo Gift shop discount of 40%

Discounts on zoo events

Free YMCA individual membership

The Erie Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consider for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity/gender expression or any other characteristic protected under Federal or State law.

How to Apply

If you are interested, please email your resume to [e-mail] and include FT Keeper in the subject line.