Temporary Wildlife Keeper (Float) – Across Species

Oakland Zoo; Oakland (CA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 41,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee Assistance Program

Paid Sick Time

403b Retirement Plan

Zoo Membership Discount

Job summary

Oakland Zoo is seeking a part-time Float Animal Keeper who will care for a variety of species and support primary keepers. This role involves working across strings, assisting with enrichment, training, and observation to ensure animal well-being, and stepping in as needed during primary keeper absences.

Ideal candidates have at least 6 months of captive wildlife care experience, a valid driver’s license, and willingness to work weekends and holidays. TB and vaccination requirements apply.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 months full-time or 1040 hours in captive wildlife care
• Valid driver’s license with clean record
• Willingness to work outside regular hours, including weekends, evenings, holidays
• Knowledge of wild animal habits and safety precautions
• Medical requirements: TB test within 1 year; tetanus and measles vaccines

Responsibilities

• Use observation, enrichment, training to support animals' well-being
• Assess physical and psychosocial needs of animals
• Design steps to address needs and implement them
• Support zoo priorities and propose improvements
• Guide junior staff and volunteers
• Represent the Zoo in public settings and during press/interactions
• Perform other related duties as required

Skills

Animal care

Observation

Enrichment

Training

Public interaction

Education

Bachelor’s degree in zoology

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

Job description

Oakland Zoo is seeking a part-time Float Animal Keeper who will care for a variety of species and support primary keepers. This role involves working across strings, assisting with enrichment, training, and observation to ensure animal well-being, and stepping in as needed during primary keeper absences.

Ideal candidates have at least 6 months of captive wildlife care experience, a valid driver’s license, and willingness to work weekends and holidays. TB and vaccination requirements apply.