Zookeeper, Full-Time

Binder Park Zoo; Battle Creek (MI); On-site; USD 19,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

Binder Park Zoo in Battle Creek, MI is seeking a Zoo Keeper to assist in daily care of a variety of exotic and domestic animals. You will clean, feed, observe, and maintain exhibits, while keeping up-to-date records and reporting health concerns to the supervisor and veterinary staff.

The role emphasizes safety, teamwork, and courteous interaction with guests and volunteers, with opportunities to participate in outreach and animal husbandry in a dynamic zoo setting.

Qualifications

• Four year related degree OR a two year related degree AND two years’ paid experience in an animal related field.
• Minimum one year experience caring for captive wildlife in a zoo setting.
• Experience working with giraffe, African hoofstock and/or primates a plus.
• Proof of negative TB test within one year and proof of tetanus shot within ten years.
• Excellent communication, judgment and record keeping skills.

Responsibilities

• Daily cleaning, feeding, and observing a group of potentially dangerous animals in a designated area.
• Maintaining accurate records.
• Daily informing supervisor and veterinarian on physical and behavioral health of the animals in their areas.
• Responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of exhibits, guest viewing areas and animal holding areas.
• Assisting with veterinary procedures as needed.
• Complying with all AZA and USDA standards and regulations.
• Relate positively with diverse groups of people, including guests, staff, volunteers and vendors.

Skills

Excellent communication

Judgment

Record keeping

Interest in animals and people

Education

Four year related degree or two year related degree with two years' experience

Job description

ZOOKEEPER
Mission Statement: To Connect, Inspire, Conserve. Connect people with nature. Inspire them to conserve.

REPORTS TO: Collections Supervisor
SEASONAL/NON-SEASONAL: Non-seasonal, Benefited
FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-Exempt

POSITION SUMMARY:
To assist the zoo in accomplishing its mission while providing daily care of a variety of exotic and domestic animals.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

• Four year related degree OR a two year related degree AND two years’ paid experience in an animal related field.
• Minimum one year experience caring for captive wildlife in a zoo setting.
• Experience working with giraffe,African hoofstock and / or primates a plus.
• Excellent communication, judgment and record keeping skills.
• Possessing a strong interest in working with animals and people.
• Proof of negative TB test within one year and proof of tetanus shot within ten years.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Daily cleaning, feeding, and observing a group of potentially dangerous animals in a designated area.
• Maintaining accurate records.
• Daily informing supervisor and veterinarian on physical and behavioral health of the animals in their areas.
• Responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of exhibits, guest viewing areas and animal holding areas.
• Assisting with veterinary procedures as needed.
• Complying with all AZA and USDA standards and regulations.
• Relate positively with diverse groups of people, including guests, staff, volunteers and vendors.

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Providing assistance to co-workers, zoo attendants, interns and volunteers when needed.
• Responsible for giving keeper talks.
• Complying with safety regulations when handling hazardous materials.
• Interacting positively with guests and providing assistance when needed.
• Complying with all Binder Park Zoo policies and procedures.
• Participating in team oriented zoo projects as needed.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: N/A

PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS:

• Ability to work long hours on a flexible schedule including weekends, evenings, holidays and emergencies.
• Ability to read, speak and write English in order to fulfill job functions in an understandable way.
• Ability to lift and carry 50 lbs.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and in a physically demanding environment.