Wildlife Zookeeper: River’s Edge & Nocturnal Keeper

Audubon Nature Institute; New Orleans (LA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Audubon Nature Institute is seeking a Zookeeper for River’s Edge & Nocturnal Swing Keeper in New Orleans, LA. The role supports animal care across sections, focusing on Central/South American species and nocturnal species, with emphasis on safety, organization, and animal welfare.

Responsibilities include habitat maintenance, enrichment, feeding, guest interactions, and collaboration with veterinarians and curators. Strong time management and a passion for Louisiana culture are valued.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Experience with exotic animal care and handling is preferred.
• Excellent safety record and ability to work with diverse species.

Responsibilities

• Exercise sound judgment to evaluate each animal’s health, diet, behavior, and emergencies.
• Daily cleaning and maintenance of habitats and grounds.
• Maintain off-exhibit areas in a clean and organized manner.
• Identify and correct maintenance issues and report needs to supervisor.
• Implement behavior modification and enrichment programs in assigned areas.
• Observe animal health daily and report abnormalities.
• Maintain daily health and behavior records of animals.
• Prepare and follow prescribed diets and feeding procedures.
• Participate in shows, chats, feeds, and guest encounters.
• Assist in training new personnel and volunteers.
• Assist in developing and improving facilities as needed.
• Compose technical reports on captive animal management and exhibit.
• Assist in capturing, restraining, and moving animals as needed.
• Support veterinary and curatorial staff as assigned.

Skills

Teamwork and communication

Exotic animal management

Care and handling of exotic animals

Safety awareness

Exhibitory techniques (perching)

Animal training and enrichment

Zoonotic disease knowledge

Time management

Accountability and ethics

Microsoft Office proficiency

Job description

Audubon Nature Institute is seeking a Zookeeper for River’s Edge & Nocturnal Swing Keeper in New Orleans, LA. The role supports animal care across sections, focusing on Central/South American species and nocturnal species, with emphasis on safety, organization, and animal welfare.

Responsibilities include habitat maintenance, enrichment, feeding, guest interactions, and collaboration with veterinarians and curators. Strong time management and a passion for Louisiana culture are valued.