Primates Animal Care Specialist – Enrichment & Welfare

Philadelphia Zoo; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 22,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Philadelphia Zoo is seeking an Animal Care Specialist - Primates (Temporary) to join a dedicated team responsible for daily husbandry, welfare, exhibit maintenance, and guest engagement. Under supervision, you will ensure high-quality care for primates, follow SOPs, administer meds, and document observations.

You will collaborate with veterinary staff and nutrition teams, support enrichment initiatives, and assist in training new staff or interns.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in animal science or related field with 2 years of full-time exotic animal care experience.
• Additional 1 year of education/training/experience may substitute for a bachelor’s degree for a total of 3 years.
• Valid driver’s license required.

Responsibilities

• Perform daily husbandry for assigned primates, including cleaning and disinfection per SOP.
• Administer medications and supplements under veterinary guidance.
• Record daily activity, diet, behavior and enrichment data; communicate findings to managers.
• Prepare animal areas for safety, welfare, and guest engagement.
• Apply proper restraint techniques for transfers and procedures.
• Support training and enrichment initiatives to promote natural behaviors.
• Communicate hazards and follow emergency protocols with the team.
• Assist with intern supervision and cross-building coverage as needed.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Observation skills

Safety awareness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in animal science or related field

2 years full-time exotic animal care experience in AZA park or equivalent

3 years total experience with substitute option

Job description

Philadelphia Zoo is seeking an Animal Care Specialist - Primates (Temporary) to join a dedicated team responsible for daily husbandry, welfare, exhibit maintenance, and guest engagement. Under supervision, you will ensure high-quality care for primates, follow SOPs, administer meds, and document observations.

You will collaborate with veterinary staff and nutrition teams, support enrichment initiatives, and assist in training new staff or interns.