Zoo Animal Care & Welfare Specialist

Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society; West Palm Beach (FL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society in West Palm Beach is seeking an experienced Animal Care Professional to perform feeding, cleaning, training, and welfare assessments for diverse species. You will support veterinary care, maintain records, and contribute to enrichment and exhibit planning.

The role requires at least 2 years in a zoological setting, a preferred biology or related degree, and willingness to work weekends.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years’ paid experience in a zoological facility caring for animals
• Bachelor’s degree (Biology, Psychology or a related field) is preferred
• Experience with husbandry and behavior of birds, mammals and primates
• Physically able to lift at least 50 pounds in Florida climate
• Must have valid driver’s license and be able to work weekends/holidays
• AZA programs participation encouraged
• Ability to use hand and power tools for habitat projects
• Proven initiative and problem solving
• Competence in behavior analysis and animal training
• Excellent communication with staff and veterinary team
• Familiarity with AZA/USDA/FWC regulations

Responsibilities

• Perform animal husbandry tasks (feed, clean, train) for terrestrial animals
• Clean and improve animal care facilities and service areas
• Observe welfare and increase mental stimulation through enrichment
• Plan, prepare and feed nutritious diets
• Assist veterinary team during health and care procedures
• Maintain animal records (feeding, diets, health, enrichment)
• Communicate safety/health concerns to staff
• Assist in capture, restraint for transfer and procedures
• Participate in behavioral training programs
• Design and execute behavioral shaping plans
• Contribute to exhibit concept design discussions
• Provide informal guest presentations
• Lead informal talks/encounters
• Participate in educational programs as assigned
• Handle program animals for events
• Participate in drills and emergency response
• Operate vehicles, tools and lab equipment safely
• Pursue opportunities to enhance professional skills

Skills

Animal husbandry

Observation of welfare

Safety awareness

Communication

Teamwork

AZA/USDA regulations familiarity

Driving/operating vehicles

Research and writing

Education

Bachelor’s degree preferred (Biology/ Psychology or related)

Tools

Hand tools

Power tools

Laboratory equipment

Vans/vehicles operation

Job description

Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society in West Palm Beach is seeking an experienced Animal Care Professional to perform feeding, cleaning, training, and welfare assessments for diverse species. You will support veterinary care, maintain records, and contribute to enrichment and exhibit planning.

The role requires at least 2 years in a zoological setting, a preferred biology or related degree, and willingness to work weekends.