Multispecies Animal Keeper - Float & Night Shift

Oakland Zoo; Oakland (CA); On-site; USD 38,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Flexible spending account

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Employee Assistance Program

Zoo Membership

Job summary

Oakland Zoo is seeking a Float Animal Keeper to care for diverse species across sections, including commissary and night keeper duties. The role involves feeding, enrichment, record keeping, and collaboration with a team to maintain animal health and welfare.

Responsibilities include adapting to variable shifts, potentially night duties, and supporting primary keepers with projects. A valid driver’s license and willingness to work non-standard hours are required.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 1 year full time or 2080 hours experience in the care of captive wildlife in the zoo field.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
• Willingness to work outside normal business hours including weekends, evenings, and holidays.
• Knowledge of the habits and hazards of working with wild, dangerous animals; willingness to work with some physical risk while observing proper safety precautions.
• Medical requirements: negative TB test within the last year, tetanus vaccine within the last 10 years, measles vaccine.

Responsibilities

• Use observation and enrichment methods to maintain animal well-being.
• Conduct ongoing assessment of physical and psycho-social needs.
• Design and implement steps to address needs and improve care.
• Support zoo priorities and seek improvements in daily work.
• Guide and support junior staff and volunteers as needed.
• Represent the Zoo in public settings, including press interviews and instructional classes.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Wildlife care

Observation

Communication

Collaboration

Time management

Safety awareness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in zoology/biology or related field

Specialized Associate's degree (e.g., Moorpark)

Job description

Oakland Zoo is seeking a Float Animal Keeper to care for diverse species across sections, including commissary and night keeper duties. The role involves feeding, enrichment, record keeping, and collaboration with a team to maintain animal health and welfare.

Responsibilities include adapting to variable shifts, potentially night duties, and supporting primary keepers with projects. A valid driver’s license and willingness to work non-standard hours are required.