Elephant Keeper

Apply at: https://jobs.dayforcehcm.com/en-US/fwzoo/CANDIDATEPORTAL/jobs/2987

Summary:  
The responsibility of this position is to maintain and care for elephants and other assigned species; to assist veterinary staff as needed; and to perform a variety of activities relative to the assigned area of responsibility.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Feed and water animals in and around existing quarters; clean, sanitize, maintain and repair animal quarters as required; shovel, rake, hose, sweep, dust and mop floors
• Prepare diets for animals; clean and maintain work area and food storage containers 
• Maintain adequate records on daily activities; observe animal behavior for signs of illness, weight loss/gain or injury; report any signs of illness or injury
• Assist veterinarians in minor operations or related activity, administer prescribed medications, submit fecal samples and other duties as needed
• Assist in the training of assigned animals; guide animals through daily routines according to established training schedules and guidelines
• Carry out animal diet directives from Nutritional Services Dept; clean and maintain food storage containers
• Participate in the zoo-wide behavioral management program by implementing approved animal training and enrichment projects
• Participate in and implement approved research projects
• Respond to public inquiries in a courteous manner; resolve complaints in an efficient and timely manner; Present keeper talks to park visitors and media as required
• Assist in directing the proper restraint, crating, moving and uncrating of animals
• Properly maintain exhibits, animal facilities, equipment and life support systems (as apply) as trained for specific positions
• Understand and implement operant conditioning as it relates to the daily management of species under his/her care

Qualifications:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Must have one year of zoo keeping experience, elephant zoo keeping experience preferred
• Valid driver license with acceptable motor vehicle record to maintain zoo standards of insurability
• Proof of negative tuberculosis (TB) screening within previous six months prior to placement and annually thereafter 
Must possess ability to:
• Work independently in the absence of immediate supervision
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships 
• Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities 

Education and/or Experience:
• High School diploma or equivalent
• Bachelor's degree in wildlife management, zoology, animal behavior, biology, ecology, psychology or related field preferred 
• Specialized training in zoology or a related field desirable but not required

Physical Demands: 
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. The employee must regularly lift and/or or move up to 75 pounds.

Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
• Team oriented environment
• Ability to work irregular hours (holidays and weekends)
• Exposure to a variety of domestic and wild or potentially dangerous animals; animal odors and animal body fluids
• Exposure to all types of inclement weather conditions
• Exposure to chemicals (cleaning, water chemicals, additives, etc.)
• Ability to work special events and functions as required
• This position may be safety sensitive
• This position may work around animals susceptible to specific diseases, thus may be subject to regular tuberculosis and rabies titer testing, and the routine use of personal protective equipment such as gloves, face masks

Disclaimer
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as a complete inventory of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. 
 
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor.
 
Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an at-will basis.
 
Benefits 
This is a full-time position and offers the following benefits: 
• Medical and Prescription Drug (Employee Coverage 90% Employer Paid, Dependent Coverage 55% Employer Paid)
• Vision
• Dental
• Basic Life AD&D (100% Employer Paid)
• Short Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Long Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Supplemental Life
• Flexible Spending Account
• 401k
• Paid Time Off (Accrual Equivalent to 5 Weeks Per Year)
• PTO Rollover
• PTO Sell Back
• Free Zoo Membership
• Free Guest Passes
• Discounts on Food, Merchandise, Attractions, Admission and Programs

Salary

$18.25 per hour

Animal Keeper - Elephant Dept.

Apply at: https://cincinnatizoo.org/about-us/job-opportunities/

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is seeking an experienced Elephant Keeper to join our Asian Elephant Program. This position plays a key role in the daily care, behavioral management, and long-term success of a multi-generational, breeding elephant herd. The successful candidate will have significant experience with protected contact management, operant conditioning, behavioral observations and problem-solving.

Additional consideration will be given to candidates with hands-on experience managing multiple herds, bulls, introductions, and calf management. We are looking for a highly motivated keeper who excels at teamwork and open communication, and who demonstrates strong situational awareness and professionalism when working with large animals. 

Position Benefits:

• Union negotiated pay rates, with a starting range between 22.27-28.65 determined by years of field experience.
• 200 PTO hours accrued throughout the first year of service, 80 of which is loaded into the PTO bank upon hire
• Competitive benefit packages and retirement matching programs
• Employee Assistance Programs
• Facility culture that highlights the following core values:
  • Collaborative Relationships
  • Pride, Passion, and a Sense of Ownership
  • Positivity and Energy
  • Accountability, Mutual Trust, and Respect
  • Progressive Thinking
• Intentional professional development opportunities, for both animal care and "people” skills

Minimum Desired Qualifications:   

Preferred candidates will have: 

• Minimum 3 years professional elephant care experience 
• Experience working with elephants in a protected contact management system
• Demonstrated experience with operant conditioning and positive reinforcement training 

Experience with the following is strongly preferred: 

• Elephant introductions and herd management 
• Breeding and reproductive management 
• Calf care and development 
• Elephant foot care and preventative medical training 
• Behavioral observation and welfare monitoring 
• EEHV monitoring or treatment protocols 

Additional qualifications: 

• Degree in Zoology, Biology, Animal Science, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience) 
• Strong understanding of elephant behavior, husbandry, and safety practices 
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills 
• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet CZBG employment requirements 

Essential Responsibilities 

Husbandry & Welfare 

• Provide daily husbandry care including feeding, habitat maintenance, enrichment, and behavioral observation. 
• Participate in a protected contact elephant management program following established safety protocols. 
• Monitor elephant behavior and welfare and report abnormalities to supervisors and veterinary staff. 
• Maintain clean and safe indoor and outdoor elephant facilities. 
• Support exercise, enrichment, and environmental management programs that promote natural behaviors and activity. 

Behavioral Training 

• Participate in an operant conditioning program using positive reinforcement training. 
• Train elephants to voluntarily participate in husbandry and veterinary procedures. 
• Assist with development and implementation of individual training plans. 
• Maintain consistent communication with team members regarding training progress and behavioral changes. 

Management 

• Assist in management of a multi-generational elephant herd, including monitoring social dynamics and compatibility. 
• Participate in elephant introductions and social management under the direction of supervisors. 
• Assist with breeding management and reproductive monitoring in coordination with veterinary staff. 
• Support calf rearing and maternal care management. 
• Participate in husbandry and training programs that support calf development and socialization. 
• Participate in preventative care practices including: 
  • Foot care
  • Skin care 
  • Blood collection and trunk washes 
  • Behavioral medical training 
  • Maintain accurate daily records related to husbandry, enrichment, behavior, and training. 

Team Collaboration 

• Work collaboratively with elephant team members, veterinary staff, and other animal care departments. 
• Assist in training and mentoring interns, volunteers, and seasonal staff. 
• Maintain strong team communication regarding daily operations and animal management. 

Guest Engagement 

• Participate in keeper chats, tours, and other educational programs. 
• Represent the elephant program professionally when interacting with zoo guests. 

Working Conditions:  While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; bend; climb or balance; lift, grasp; and negotiate stairs and ladders.  In addition, the employee may be exposed to Zoonosis, chemicals, and outside weather conditions; Must be able to lift and move 50 pounds without mechanical assistance; must possess a valid driver’s license (and insurable to drive a Zoo vehicle).     

 

Position Details: This is a full-time (40 hours per week with benefits) Union keeper position, which is subject to the successful completion of a probationary and the deduction of union dues. This position requires weekend work with regular off-days TBD. This is a 4, 10 hr/day schedule. 

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden offers a comprehensive benefits package including affordable medical, dental & vision coverage; 401(k) plan with company match; flexible spending accounts; generous paid time off (vacation, holiday and sick leave); company-paid disability & life insurance; park discounts and free passes.

Perks

Full Benefits

Zookeeper II - Elephants

Apply at: https://jobs.dayforcehcm.com/en-US/houstonzoo/CANDIDATEPORTAL/jobs/3388

A successful candidate for this position is motivated, energetic, and a team-oriented individual with good problem solving written/oral communication, and organizational/interpersonal skills. This candidate will have solid knowledge in operant conditioning, implementation of animal training and enrichment programs, as well as being comfortable with public speaking. 

Our Mission:  Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife. 

Our Vision:  Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Observes and evaluates animal condition, behavior and responses and communicates observations orally and on written reports.
• Prepares and feeds appropriate diets, noting conformance of foods provided to diets prescribed for each animal.
• Administers prescribed medications and dietary supplements and monitor food and medicine consumption.
• Checks on integrity of enclosures and structures, ensuring safety and welfare of animals, Zoo visitors, and staff in accordance with established guidelines.
• Maintains live plants within enclosures ensuring neat, attractive exhibits.
• Performs minor repairs and preventative maintenance as necessary.
• Maintains clean and organized exhibits, equipment, and keeper areas.
• Improves the quality of life of the animal collection by providing environmental and behavioral enrichment opportunities.
• Trains selected animals through operant conditioning for purposes of gaining cooperation for veterinary treatment and/or public demonstrations.
• Installs exhibit furnishings, props, and decorations safely, attractively and in a manner consistent with Zoo guidelines. 

Education and Experience

• One year of experience in animal care in a zoo setting or under the direction of a licensed veterinarian is required, which may be gained through internships, volunteer experience, or employment.
• Extensive domestic animal experience may qualify for substitution for exotic animal management experience.
• Specific training and work experience in other settings, such as aquaculture, schools, nature centers, agricultural operations, or conservation centers may be considered on a case-by-case basis as fulfillment for the experience requirements.

ABOUT HOUSTON ZOO

The Houston Zoo is made up of many moving parts with over 6,000 permanent residents (our animals) for whom we provide housing, meals, medical care and, yes, even education! There are over 2 million guests each year who come to experience our incredible variety of animals and ecosystems, as well as attend special private and public events and entertainment. Our dedicated staff works around the clock to ensure that the Zoo is always running smoothly for the safety and well-being of our residents and guests. We strive to ensure the protection of all the counterparts of the animals we have at the Zoo and in the wild.  

Join the Houston Zoo and become a part of an organization that is focused on the preservation of wildlife and their habitats by combining conservation with education and promotion of sustainable livelihoods in the local communities.  Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer 

Full-Time Keeper Assistant - Elephants

Submit the following materials if interested in applying to

- Daniel Meates, Zoo Director

- Rosamond Gifford Zoo

- 1 Conservation Place

- Syracuse, NY 13204

- danmeates@ongov.net 

• resume, including education and relevant experience
• cover letter with statement of personal goals
• two references 

The Rosamond Gifford Zoo is looking for a highly motivated individual interested in a Keeper Assistant position in the Elephant Department. Prior experience in a zoological institution is desired, preferably AZA-accredited.

Qualified individuals will be expected to assist in the care of the animal collection under the supervision of full-time animal keepers and department managers. Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Husbandry - including cleaning, scrubbing/disinfecting enclosures
• Implementing approved enrichment
• Notifying full-time animal keepers and department managers of any inconsistencies in the health or behavior of animals in the zoo’s collection
• Diet preparation
• Assisting in ZIMS data entry
• Horticulture and maintenance of exhibits and grounds

Individuals applying for a position must possess the following:

• Working knowledge of animal care and feeding practices
• Working knowledge of materials, methods, and equipment used in cleaning and caring for buildings and grounds
• Ability to understand and recognize normal and abnormal animal behavior, indicators of stress, social dominance, reproductive behavior, territoriality, etc.
• Ability to interface with coworkers and zoo visitors
• Public speaking skills
• Ability to cope with the physical demands of the profession (i.e. must be able to lift 50 pounds, work outside in all seasons/weather, stand for prolonged periods of time, etc.)

Applicants must possess a valid driver license. Housing is not provided.

Elephant Caregiver

Apply at: https://elephants.com/careers-and-internships

Our Mission The Elephant Sanctuary exists to... provide a natural habitat refuge developed around the needs of Asian and African elephants where elephants are provided with lifetime care support and promote elephant welfare and conservation educate the public regarding the complex needs of elephants and the challenges facing elephants in the wild

Elephant Caregiver

ELEPHANT CAREGIVER 

Department: Elephant Care	Job Status: Full Time
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt	Reports To: Branch Manager
Work Schedule: 8 Hour Shifts, 5 Days Per  Week, Overtime as needed	Positions Supervised: None
Effective Date: 01/01/25	Last Revision Date: 5/01/2025
Prepared By: COO/HR/CEO/SMEC	Revision Requested By: HR Review

 

Providing home, herd, and whole life care for elephants 

The intent of the Elephant Care Program is to provide exceptional whole life care for The Sanctuary’s resident elephants.  We strive to expand and improve opportunities for elephants to thrive and to support elephants as they age relevant to Sanctuary resources and infrastructure.  

The Elephant Caregiver is a member of the elephant husbandry team providing quality daily care, social and herd opportunity, nutrition, and treatments using Protected Contact and Positive Reinforcement for aging African and Asian elephants housed at The Sanctuary.  Caregivers play an important role in maintaining the elephant barns and habitats to provide safe and secure housing.    

Position Objectives 

• Actively participate with The Sanctuary team supporting all aspects of daily and year-round elephant and facility care. 

• Ensure best possible wellness practices to meet the changing health and social needs of elephants as they age. Prepare for and manage end of life palliative care and ensure quality of life.    

• Manage seasonal elephant care requirements to the best of our ability. 

• Employ “Protected Contact” best practice elephant management through Positive Reinforcement.   

 

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Elephant Care 

• Safely and efficiently work directly with elephants to effectively provide daily care in barns and habitats. 

• Prepare and provide daily diets and medications in accordance with animal care protocols and related safety guidelines. 

• Observe and interpret elephant behavior and diet consumption, report significant changes.  Adapt with seasonal changes and elephant health status. 

• Develop proficiency in implementation of treatment(s), foot care, and preventative care in collaboration with the Veterinary team. 

• Promote elephant autonomy, social opportunity, and herd building dynamics. 

• Assist in the procurement, preparation and delivery of browse, and other forms of enrichment. 

• Provide husbandry training support for elephants to maintain and teach behaviors required to meet elephant program objectives. 

• Prepare for and manage geriatric and end of life elephant care circumstances.    

 

Facilities & Supplies 

• Monitor, inspect and maintain elephant and safety infrastructure (e.g., barns, fence, gates) and report breakage/failures in a timely manner to supervisor. 

• Provide daily cleaning and upkeep of elephant facilities, including barns, service areas, habitats, and other related infrastructure.  

• Implement seasonal procedural changes for barn and habitat management, as directed. 

• Ensure work areas, access, parking, and offices are cleaned and maintained daily in a safe, neat, and orderly fashion. 

• Assist in unloading and storage of feed and hay deliveries. 

• Monitor and maintain feed and husbandry supplies. Order supplies as needed and requested. 

• Perform daily basic maintenance safety checks on vehicles and equipment; report as requested. 

 

Safety 

• Understand and participate with all assigned safety training protocols for The Sanctuary and department.  

• Safely operate ATVs, vehicles and equipment on roads, trails and in habitats, per established protocols. 

• Perform elephant care tasks in accordance with existing safety guidelines; maintain constant awareness of elephants and co-worker proximity.  

• Participate in elephant escape, elephant down, and other emergency training protocols as requested. 

 

Administrative / Other 

• Maintain daily animal care and observation logs and record keeping. 

• Adhere to weekly schedules for both daily animal care and night feedings, as weather requires. 

• Actively participate in barn meetings to ensure daily goals are understood and met. 

• Monitor Ele-cam location and provide appropriate reporting. 

• Represent The Elephant Sanctuary in internal and local community and public events as required. 

• Provide written updates for internal newsletter (Ele-buzz) and other communications as needed. 

• Perform other duties as required.  

 

SUCCESS FACTORS AND EXPECTATIONS: 

• Team Oriented – Develop cooperative working relationships with other Sanctuary employees, departments, senior management.  

• Good Communicator – Communicate respectfully and effectively with others. Good verbal and written communication skills. Report internal and/or external issues and concerns to supervisor. 

• Self-Motivated – Perform the job responsibilities with minimal supervision, takes initiative without direction. Strong work ethic and professional demeanor. Ability to recognize and understand issues and problems, then resolve them in a practical manner. 

• Dependable and Reliable – Come to work and be on time. Follow procedures and maintain accurate records related to all aspects of elephant care and all areas of responsibility. 

• Training – Identify and engage in ongoing professional development.  Develop self-training plan with supervisor and play a support role to help train co-workers.   

Experience Required

3

Perks

100% paid health, dental and vision insurance to individuals, 401K, tuition reimbursement, PTO, Sick Paid Time Off

Salary

$16/hour plus benefits, PTO, Holidays

ICC Animal Supervisor

Apply at: https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=e50aac5d-42b4-47ec-9c8b-c2bec46ca8a7&ccId=19000101_000001&jobId=568612&lang=en_US&source=CC2

Purpose:

The successful candidate will be expected to perform in a proactive leadership role and regularly assist the Curator regarding animal management and staff supervision. This position is responsible for assisting with the oversight of all sections of the ICC animal department. 

Essential Job Functions:

• The successful candidate is knowledgeable of every area of the department and assists in departmental hiring, scheduling, and work assignments.  

• Supports the Curator with day-to-day supervision of keeper staff, seasonals and interns.

• Assists with training and direct work of animal department staff. 
• Assists the Curator with routine monitoring and reviewing the work performance of keeper staff in assigned area and ensure completion of tasks in a timely and effective fashion. 

• Requires excellent animal training, time management, and staff/volunteer supervision skills. 
• Directs assigned personnel and evaluates work under the guidance of the Curator.
• Promotes and maintains open channels of communication throughout the entire department including mediating minor personnel differences and works with Curator on disciplinary actions.
• Demonstrates consistent good judgment in animal welfare/management and keeper safety, considering history, current situation, potential solutions, and probable outcomes when making decisions.
• Assists in the developing of monthly departmental schedules.
• Performs duties of keeper 70% of the time and performs such other tasks and duties that are assigned and required.
• Responsible for completing all relevant documentation and keeping records up to date in the required format.
• Follows up on the progress of work orders.

Other Functions:

• May assist in zoo approved research projects and in the collection of data and the preparation of reports.
• Conducts tours, provides class instruction or assists with instruction of a class, group or individual as directed.
• Performs other related duties as required.

Performance Factors:

1. Attendance and Dependability: Employee can be relied upon to report to work on time, complete work in a timely, accurate and thorough manner and is conscientious about assignments.

1. Communication and Contact: The employee communicates effectively both verbally and in writing with colleagues, and individuals inside and outside the ICC. Exhibits a professional manner in dealing with others and works to maintain constructive working relationships.  Maintains positive visitor interaction.

Education/Experience/Knowledge/Skills:

• A bachelor’s degree in animal science and five (5) years professional practice is strongly preferred; or commensurate experience.        Requires the appropriate level of knowledge to ensure the best possible physical and psychological well-being of the animals in his/her care.

Physical Requirements:

Works outdoors in all types of weather and must be available to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.  Some local and out of town travel may be required. This position is physically demanding and requires lifting up to 75 pounds with or without assistance.  

Salary Range: $24.00 To $25.00 Hourly

Animal Care Professional - Elephants

Apply at: https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/0F311A9CB0E06646E60CCE5E069A1F85/jobs/387077

The Birmingham Zoo is currently seeking applications for an Animal Care Professional in the Elephant Department. Under the direction of the Elephant Manager, the elephant team provides a high level of care to a bachelor herd of African elephants.

Primary responsibilities of this position include monitoring animal health, performing animal husbandry, maintaining cleanliness of animal and keeper areas, providing environmental and behavioral enrichment, maintaining trained elephant behaviors, preparing diets, modifying habitats, maintaining accurate records, and presenting both formally and informally for the public. The successful candidate will be a motivated self-starter with excellent communication and critical thinking skills to contribute to the dynamic and collaborative environment of the Elephant Department.

This is a full-time position working at least 40 hours per week including weekends, holidays, and late events as needed.