The Elephant Managers Association Untitled page

Audubon Zoo

Colton Meier — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Zookeeper - Elephants

Apply at: https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=2a3564c1-3dc4-4eaf-b5a4-197ca9050c50&ccId=19000101_000001&type=JS&lang=en_US&jobId=637714

Position Title: Zookeeper- Elephants

Department: Animal

Reports To: Curator

Location: Audubon Zoo

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Date Revised: 8/31/2026

General Summary:

This is an exciting time for the Audubon Zoo Elephant Department as we are adding three new positions to the team! This team will be fully dedicated to the care of 0.3 Asian Elephants. The selected team members will provide technical work in the daily care of elephants and report directly to the Curator of Elephants. Zookeepers: perform routine zookeeper duties; work under minimal supervision in a wide range of functions; may supervisor volunteer staff; initiate and participate in training and behavioral enrichment. This is a great opportunity to join a dynamic and enthusiastic team that is focused on long term welfare initiatives and providing exceptional and progressive elephant care.

To deliver on the Audubon mission, the Zookeeper will:

Provide daily guest experience of outstanding quality.

• A strong willingness to engage our guests about the Audubon Zoo’s mission statement. Looks to have genuine conversations about conservation, wildlife, and take-home messages.

• Ability to exercise sound judgment to evaluate and respond to any emergency situations that arise with our guests or facility.

• Willingness to present highly engaging educational programs as assigned.

• Participates in demonstrations/chats/feeds for our guests daily.

• Conducts behind-the-scenes tours for VIP’s, donors, and Audubon Education programs as scheduled.

• Extensive interaction with the public which may include on and off grounds educational and media presentations.

Enhance the care and survival of wildlife through welfare initiatives and research

• Identifies and corrects minor or routine maintenance problems and reports other maintenance needs directly to supervisor(s).

• Performs and initiates behavior modification and behavioral enrichment programs in assigned areas as designated by supervisor(s).

• Provide elephant-specific husbandry, such as footcare, baths sessions, etc.

• Observes general animal health and behavior daily and reports any abnormal situations to a supervisor(s).

• Maintains daily records of health and behavior status of animals in designated areas as directed.

• Prepares and follows prescribed diets and feeding procedures as directed by supervisor(s).

• Will assist in training new personnel in methods of animal care consistent with policies and procedures .

• Will value the contribution of every team member.

• May assist in the selection, training, supervision, evaluation, and assignment of volunteers as needed.

• May assist in developing new facilities and improving existing ones as assigned by supervisor(s).

• Composes technical reports on various aspects of captive animal management and exhibition as assigned by supervisor(s).

• Participates in restraining elephants under the supervision of the curator.

• Assists veterinary and curatorial staff in treating animals as assigned and prescribed, including administering medications.

• Assists in operant conditioning with the elephants and guide the elephants through the daily routine utilizing these positive and controlled training techniques.

• Makes decisions consistent with Audubon policies and procedures when required.

• Strong skills in time management.

• Ability to stay f lexible with team, supervisor(s), elephants and daily routine.

• Willingness to participate in AZA programs as assigned by supervisor(s).

• Take initiative by leading co-workers, Interns and Volunteers in coordinating and leading group projects.

• Brings a positive attitude and is accountable for their actions.

• Take personal responsibility for their surroundings.

• Displays actions that are moral and ethical.

• Looks to provide alternate solutions whenever possible.

• Maintain empathic behavior towards team members and supervisor(s).

• Willingness to receive and give feedback f rom team members and supervisor(s).

The above listed duties are general statements of required major duties and responsibilities performed on a regular and continuous basis. They do not exclude other duties as assigned.

To deliver on the Audubon service promise, the Zookeeper will:

Welcome

• Make eye contact with every customer encounter, smile at every person, and offer friendly phrases and greetings.

• Wears identification badge and follow dress code. Maintains a camera-ready appearance.

• Offers assistance to guests whenever possible.

• Assumes ownership of potential safety hazards and park appearance (wipe-up spill, pick up trash).

• Always engage team members and guests in a positive manner.

• Utilizes the power of teamwork to provide excellent service.

• Know when to involve the management team.

Inspire

• Strives to share their passion and experiences for the conservation of wildlife.

• Empowered to take ownership of opportunities to exceed expectations.

Experience:

• Diverse and strong knowledge of the principles of large mammal management. Elephant experience preferred.

• Strong knowledge of zoonotic diseases and prevention.

• Strong ability to exercise sound judgment to evaluate each animal’s health, diet, behavior, and any emergency situations that arise.

• Considerable experience in care, restraint, and handling of exotic animals.

• Excellent safety track record.

• Working knowledge of USDA and AZA requirements.

• Strong knowledge of animal training and application.

• With 6+ years of experience, an individual can qualify for a Senior Keeper position. Additional benchmarks would need to be met and/or a timeline created to achieve benchmarks.

Education:

• High School degree or equivalent

• Accurate oral and written communication skills

• College credits in Biology or related f ields

• Bachelor’s degree in related f ield preferred

• Ability to take required webinar courses.

Licensure/Certification:

• Must maintain a valid La. Driver’s License

• Must be fully Covid vaccinated

• Current TB test

• Current Tetanus shot

• Ability to obtain Incident Command System 100 and 200

Software Requirements:

• Proficiency in computer processing

Machinery/Tools/Equipment Requirements:

• Ability to learn and operate medium and heavy equipment as needed.

• Ability and willingness to operate power tools, lawn equipment, etc.

• Ability and willingness to operate complex pump systems.

Physical Requirements:

• The ability to work outdoors in extreme weather patterns, including heat, humidity, and heavy rain.

• Sitting or standing, bending, stooping, and per OSHA regulations : Heavy work involving lif ting no more than 100 pounds at a time with f requent lif ting or carrying objects weighing up to 50 pounds.

• Risk periodic exposure to predictable and controllable hazards associated with wild animals and zoonotic diseases.

• Must be able to wear appropriate PPE when designated by employer.

• Must be able to manage stress during high-risk situations when working around elephants, such as feeding, shifting, and husbandry duties.

Environmental/Working Conditions:

• Ability to work effectively and positively in a team and with volunteers.

• Daily cleaning of animal habitats, stalls, and grounds.

• Lawn and other horticultural maintenance required.

• Maintains off-exhibit areas in a clean and organized manner.

• Ability to work weekends and holidays, including overtime and be available based on special needs/circumstances on a 24-hour basis.

• Must be able to work alone or in close contact with team members.

• Willing to perform Pest Control duties as necessary.

• Willingness to serve on the zoo’s Hurricane Team, if needed.

• Ability to understand and operate moat pump systems.

• Ensures work area is f ree of food, drink, socialization, and personal business .

Zoo Atlanta

Colton Meier — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Elephant Keeper

Apply at: https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=467f6b1e-2b6d-4e48-8560-e11a85e74702&ccId=19000101_000001&lang=en_US&jobId=573032

Job Title: Elephant Keeper I, II or III (depending on experience)

Department: Mammals

Reports to: Lead Keeper and Curatorial Staff

FLSA Status: Non-exempt

Job Status: Full-time

Job Summary: Zoo Atlanta’s Elephant Team, part of the Mammal Department, currently cares for 2.2 African elephants and meerkats. In 2019, Zoo Atlanta opened the new African Savanna, which includes a state-of-the-art elephant facility and an expanding elephant program. Animal keepers are responsible for animal welfare and husbandry, including training and enrichment. Additionally, animal keepers are responsible for maintenance of habitats, holdings, and public areas as assigned. The Keeper I, II, and III will report to the area managers and should be willing to serve as a possible point person in the absence of managers.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES, SKILLS, AND RESPONSIBILITES:

Must be willing to support Zoo Atlanta’s strategic plan, mission and values, and work with all zoo staff to support these plans.
Maintain a high-performance level of excellent animal care.
Participate in and support collaborative efforts pertaining to the care of the collection including training, enrichment, research, and education.
Complete behavioral management training provided by Zoo Atlanta and utilize operant conditioning and enrichment techniques.
Complete animal welfare training provided by Zoo Atlanta, participate in animal welfare assessments, and contribute to follow-through on animal welfare action items when necessary.
Effectively monitor health and behavior of the animal collection and communicate changes to supervisor and veterinary staff. Oversee administration of medications as applicable.
Actively support and implement area policies, procedures, and protocols to ensure the highest standards of care for the collection and the safety of staff and guests.
Maintain the highest level of safety in the work area through implementation of safety protocols and procedures.
Use positive interpersonal skills to form and maintain professional relationships within the work environment.
Maintain a high-performance level of guest interactions including scheduled on-ground talks.
Takes action to advance and promote department function and productively motivates others to do the same.
Highly proficient at communicating with supervisory staff and co-workers both written and orally.
Write daily reports, logs, animal records, and other records as assigned and serves as a resource for effective record keeping.
Demonstrates the ability to coordinate and supervise activities of interns and volunteers.
Actively assists others in expanding and developing their job knowledge.
Must be able to work independently.
Responsible for special projects, procedures, and goals set forth by the area managers.
Demonstrates the ability to meet challenges with a solution-oriented approach.
Must be dependable and reliable: be timely, be responsive, be organized, meet deadlines, take responsibility, and help other zoo staff as needed.
Promote communication and information sharing between the zoological community.
Employees must strive to decrease our environmental footprint to serve as models to our patrons to do the same through education and example.
Must be able and willing to work flexible hours, weekends, and holidays.
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; therefore, the employee may be required to perform other reasonably related duties as assigned by management.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Prior elephant experience and/or related exotic animal care experience is required.
Experience with operant conditioning and enrichment techniques is strongly preferred.
Must have the ability to: demonstrate focus, follow written verbal instructions, effectively promote organization, manage stress to perform the job effectively, remember details, manage time effectively, apply critical thinking techniques, analyze, and solve problems.
Demonstrate computer proficiency to complete the functions of this position.
Must be able to use light power tools after suitable training.
Keeper I
- Prior elephant experience and/or related exotic animal care experience is required. Paid experience at an AZA accredited facility is preferred.
Keeper II
- Prior elephant experience and/or related exotic animal care experience is required.
- A minimum of 3 years prior related, paid animal care experience is required. Paid experience at an AZA accredited facility is preferred.
Keeper III
- Prior elephant experience and/or related exotic animal care experience is required.
- A minimum of 5 years prior, related, paid animal care experience is required. Paid experience at an AZA accredited facility is greatly preferred.

EDUCATION:

Four-year degree in biology, psychology, or related field is preferred; sufficient relevant experience will be considered.

DRIVING REQUIREMENTS:

Must obtain and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license with a safe driving record.

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions and have the physical ability to routinely perform strenuous work.
After being properly trained, all keepers working with, or around dangerous animals must be able to carry and utilize OC spray.

MISC: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Therefore, the employee may be required to perform other reasonably related duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor or other management. The company reserves the right to revise or change job duties as business requirements dictate. It is mutually agreed that this job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

Zoo Atlanta is an EOE and provides a Smoke-free and Drug-free Work Environment

Perks

Medical Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), 403(b) Retirement Plan, 403(b) Employer Match, Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, Tuition Assistance, Professional Development, Employee Discounts, Free Zoo Admission, Wellness Program

Salary

$18.70 To $26.06 Hourly

North Carolina Zoo

Colton Meier — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Zookeeper - Elephant

Apply at: https://nc.wd108.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/NC_Careers/job/Zookeeper_JR-122198

Join the North Carolina Zoo during an exciting period of growth as we prepare for the opening of Asia! The North Carolina Zoo is seeking to hire multiple, talented and enthusiastic team members to join our Animal Section.

We are looking to fill Zookeeper positions in 7 different areas -
• Asia herps - New Asia development encompassing variety of reptiles/amphibians species including Chinese giant salamander, Komodo dragon and King Cobra.
• Asia mammals - New Asia development encompassing Malayan tiger, Asian small-clawed otter, white-cheeked gibbon, and warty pigs
• Avian - Consists of a variety of avian species housed between three areas: Asia Avian Habitats (3), Avian Propagation building (off habitat) and Avian Barn building (off habitat).
• Desert - Desert dome building encompassing a wide diversity of reptiles/amphibians, birds, and mammal species
• Elephant – African elephants
• Rocky Coast - Horned Puffins, Arctic Fox, North American Porcupine, Brown Pelican, and Polar Bear
• Swamp - Reptiles, Amphibians, Owl, and Cougars

In addition to a rewarding work environment, Zookeepers have the opportunity to participate in a variety of conservation initiatives, involvement in Zoo committees, and other professional development opportunities. The Zoo is centrally located on a beautiful 500+ acre site in the heart of the North Carolina Piedmont plateau region and the Uwharrie Mountains. Multiple hiking trails are located on property with quick access to the Piedmont Triad cities, Appalachian Mountains, and coastal towns providing the opportunity for a positive, work-life balance.

Key Responsibilities:
• Provide daily care of animal collection, maintenance of animal habitats and holding areas.
• Conduct systematic observation and monitoring of animal health, behavior and welfare.
• Interact with zoo guests in formal and informal setting.
• Work as a team to develop and implement holistic behavioral management program which utilizes positive reinforcement training, behavior-based enrichment variability, and utilizing research to provide a dynamic environment for optimal animal welfare.
• Ensure thorough and accurate animal records are maintained
• Be an active, productive member of the team to ensure highest quality of animal care and welfare, problem solve issues and engage in decision making processes.
• May be assigned to work with other animal species in other work units as needed.

WE ARE RECRUITING FOR MULTIPLE VACANCIES.

Experience Required

Knowledge Skills and Abilities/Management Preferences Please note: Job postings close at 11:59:59 p.m. the night before the listed Posting End Date. To receive credit for your work history and credentials, you must provide the information on the application form. Any information omitted from the application form, listed as general statements, listed under the text resume section, or on an attachment will not be considered for qualifying credit. Candidates meet the minimum qualifications of this position if they meet the minimum education and experience listed on the vacancy announcement. Vacancy specific knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) and/or management preferences are not required. Applicants who possess the following are preferred: Demonstrated hands-on animal care experience at an AZA accredited zoo or related facility Demonstrated experience with record keeping and comfort utilizing computers. Keen observation skills to discern and interpret subtle changes in health, condition and behavior of animals, and to monitor breeding activity. Proven communication skills to include guest interactions, public speaking, reporting, and or team interactions. Experience with positive reinforcement-based operant conditioning and environmental enrichment. Position/Physical Requirements Job offer is contingent upon passing a pre-employment screen conducted by assigned provider. Work schedule - between the hours of 7:30am - 5:30pm, 8 - 9 hour shifts (seasonally dependent) Must be able to work a rotating schedule that involves working weekends, holidays and after regular work shifts. Position is considered "Essential/Mandatory Staff" requiring work on adverse weather days and during zoo emergencies. Required to participate in the zoo's occupational health program. Must be able to capture, handle and restrain live exotic and potentially dangerous animals and use associated capture equipment. Must have the ability to perform strenuous physical work with alertness to surroundings in extremes of weather and challenging physical environments with or without a reasonable accommodation. Must be able to frequently lift up to 50 lbs. with or without a reasonable accommodation. Must meet DNCR Fleet Safety Guidelines and have ability to obtain and maintain a valid driver's license issued from within the United States or be able to obtain one within 90 days of employment. This position is located at: 4401 Zoo Parkway Asheboro, NC 27205 Minimum Education and Experience Some state job postings say you can qualify by an “equivalent combination of education and experience.” If that language appears below, then you may qualify through EITHER years of education OR years of directly related experience, OR a combination of both. See the Education and Experience Equivalency Guide for details. Bachelor's degree in biology, zoology, natural sciences or related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution AND one year of experience working in a zoo-based or related animal care facility; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience

Perks

https://oshr.nc.gov/state-employee-resources/benefits

Salary

Recruitment Range: $33,902 - $44,800

Zoo Miami

Colton Meier — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Keeper I - Elephants

Apply at: https://jobs.miamidade.gov/psc/JOBS/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_SCHJOB_FL&Action=U

Zoo Miami currently has one (1) full-time Animal Care Specialist 1 (Zoo Miami Keeper 1) position available for our Elephant Team. We are searching for team-oriented candidates that will be engaging and deliver exceptional customer service by creating friendly and positive interactions with all guests and co-workers. 

This position reports directly to an Animal Care Supervisor. This teams works with both African and Asian Elephants.

Responsibilities/duties include, but are not limited to:

Provides overall care and maintenance of assigned work areas ensuring animal health and safety, staff safety and public safety through established standard operating procedures for animal care and exhibition as set forth by AZA, USDA and Zoo Miami.

Observes animals, inspects habitats and off exhibit enclosures; prepares daily zookeeper reports, and notes on any changes in behavior, diet, sickness, reproductive status and body condition.

Provides diets in accordance with nutritional and behavioral requirements as specified by curatorial staff; administers medications; participates in capture and restraint, crating and transporting animals; participates in approved scientific research and educational projects.

Assists in conducting animal behavior training and operant conditioning of various species animals; attends training classes as required by the Curator of Wellness.

Cleans, disinfects, and maintains animal exhibits, enclosures, food and water dishes, pools and other areas. Performs routine maintenance and upkeep of assigned work areas ensuring that all fence lines are free of weeds and service areas are mowed.

Must deliver exceptional customer service by engaging with guests on a regular basis to create a friendly, memorable and positive experience; give educational and conservation oriented keeper talks to the public.

Must have knowledge of behavioral characteristics and handling procedures for assigned animals.

Must have very good oral and written communication skills.

Must be able to work independently and in a team environment.

Requires normal hearing and seeing capabilities, ability to stand, bend, lift, stoop, push and pull.

Must be able to use tools and operate small equipment.

May have to lift up to 50 lbs.

Experience Required

Minimum Qualifications: High school diploma or GED. One year of experience working with non-domestic mammals, reptiles, or exotic birds is required. Completion of related coursework may substitute for the required experience on a month-for-month basis. Must possess a Driver license. Must be able to work days, nights, holidays, and weekends on a varied work schedule. Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in zoology or a related field and three (3) years of experience in an accredited facility is highly preferred.

Further Comments

Now is a great time to join our family and be a part of Zoo Miami’s dynamic future as we strive to “To Inspire people through engaging experiences to preserve nature in South Florida and across the globe”. Zoo Miami is focused on five key commitments: Conservation, Our Team, Our Animals, Our Guests, and Our Community through our core values of Welcoming, Caring, Fun, Collaborative and Dedicated.

ABQ BioPark

Colton Meier — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Zookeeper I, II, III Elephants, Carnivores, Birds, Hoofstock

Apply at: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/cabq/jobs/5437390-0/zookeeper-i-ii-iii

The Albuquerque (ABQ) BioPark, the most visited attraction in New Mexico (1.2M annual visitors) is a dynamic cultural facility including an AZA accredited zoo and aquarium, a botanic garden and public park with fishing ponds. The BioPark is a beloved community jewel. The voters of the Albuquerque community voted in favor of a fifteen-year 1/8 cent gross receipts tax (GRT) in 2015 to support the implementation of the BioPark’s master plan. This support has allowed the BioPark Zoo to make important additions to the zoo including a new elephant barn, Asia, Birds of Prey exhibit, nearly $10M in maintenance infrastructure improvements and the opening of new Asia and Australia exhibits in 2023. In addition to broad community support for capital improvements, the BioPark is currently in the midst of strategic planning process that has identified a new mission, core values and strategic program pillars to guide our work over the next five years. We are excited to have this process evolve alongside a master plan review and update process that aligns capital improvements with program development that is focused on community engagement and conservation impacts.

The ABQ BioPark has been continuously accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) for more than 30 years, demonstrating the BioPark’s ongoing leadership in animal welfare and veterinary care, conservation, education, guest experience and safety. At the core of the BioPark’s AZA accreditation is the professional staff dedicated to the care of our living collections. This position, once hired, will automatically be enrolled in the BioPark’s Animal Care Excellence (ACE) program a new certification program that allows animal care staff to advance in their careers through ongoing training and development opportunities while also improving the lives of the animals entrusted to our care. Employees follow a curriculum of online and in-person trainings about a range of topics including animal wellness, nutrition, animal training and enrichment. The program allows for four distinct animal care staff levels, with each level receiving increased responsibilities and higher pay. This position will be hired at a Level I, II or III depending on experience and education. For more information about the ACE Program: New Certification Program at the ABQ BioPark Will Offer Career Advancement, Ensure Continued Excellence in Animal Care — City of Albuquerque (cabq.gov)

Position Summary

This posting is for the recruitment of multiple Zookeeper I-III positions in the following departments: Carnivores, Hoofstock, Elephants, and Birds

Maintain and care for a variety of animals within the BioPark; assist curatorial and veterinary staff as needed and perform a variety of activities relative to the assigned area of responsibility.

These positions are part of the BioPark Training and Certification program.

This is a safety sensitive position subject to random drug/alcohol testing.

Job descriptions are intended to present a general list of tasks/duties performed by employees within this job classification. Job Descriptions are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

Experience Required

ZOOKEEPER II ($20.19-$21.20/hr) High school diploma or GED; and Three (3) years of experience in any combination of the following areas: exotic animal husbandry zookeeping arthropod rearing Experience working in an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited facility preferred. Additional Requirements: Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver's License or the ability to obtain within ninety (90) days from date of hire. Possession of a City Operator’s Permit (COP) within 6 months from hire date. Must have completed Level 1 of the BioPark Training and Certification Program, or have 15 college level credit hours of college level work in biology, zoology, or animal science. ZOOKEEPER III ($21.83-$22.86/hr) High school diploma or GED, supplemented by thirty (30) credit hours of college level course work in zoology, biology, or animal science; and Four (4) years of experience in any combination of the following areas: exotic animal husbandry zookeeping arthropod rearing Experience working in an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited facility preferred. Additional Requirements: Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver's License or the ability to obtain within ninety (90) days from date of hire. Possession of a City Operator’s Permit (COP) within 6 months from hire date. Must have completed Level 2 of the BioPark Training and Certification Program, or 15 credit hours of college level course work in zoology, biology, or animal science. Scuba certified or the ability to obtain a scuba certification within 1 year of hire for pertinent departments.

Further Comments

Additional Requirements: Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver's License or the ability to obtain within ninety (90) days from date of hire. Possession of a City Operator’s Permit (COP) within 6 months from hire date. Must have completed Level 1 of the BioPark Training and Certification Program, or have 15 college level credit hours of college level work in biology, zoology, or animal science. Working Conditions Environmental: Zoo environment; exposure, a variety of domestic and exotic animals, noise, animal body fluids, and inclement weather conditions; may work in or around water. Physical: Essential and supplemental functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for standing, walking, reaching, bending, squatting, kneeling, and climbing for prolonged periods of time; heavy, moderate or light lifting, pulling or pushing.

Fort Worth Zoo

Colton Meier — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Elephant Keeper

Apply at: https://jobs.dayforcehcm.com/en-US/fwzoo/CANDIDATEPORTAL/jobs/3259

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

Kansas City Zoo and Aquarium

Colton Meier — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Animal Care Specialist - Elephant Team (Full Time)

Apply at: https://recruitingbypaycor.com/career/SubmitResume.action?clientId=8a788267543c64a801544fc9f417049e&id=8a7885ac9f8b9423019fc86b623d5346&source=Association%20of%20Zoos%20&%20Aquariums&code=&fromAggregate=false&qToken=&applicant_guid=

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

The Animal Care Specialist is responsible for performing routine work assignments involving the daily care and welfare of animals within their area. This position also performs daily maintenance of animal habitats and holding areas, as well as interacts with the public to provide information related to the Zoo & Aquarium’s animal collection.

This position will work with the Elephant Team, which is responsible for the daily husbandry of African elephants.

POSITION DUTIES & ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Duties	Percentage
Performs daily animal husbandry activities, including: Preparing diets and delivering animal feedings. Administering medications and assisting with various animal health procedures. Observing, logging, and reporting issues concerning animal behavior, health, and welfare. Training animals for basic husbandry behaviors. Creating and implementing various enrichment items/strategies.	40%
Completes daily maintenance of exhibits and holding areas, including: Cleaning habitats, holding areas, and staff areas. Performing minor repairs and improvements. Reporting maintenance issues and potential safety hazards to appropriate manager. Lawn and other horticultural maintenance within habitats.	40%
Maintains daily reports and other required records.	10%
Interacts with Zoo & Aquarium guests and the public, including: Performing various animal chats and animal presentations, as well as assisting with special events related to assigned area. Engaging with visitors to answer questions about the Zoo & Aquarium and animals.	10%

*This position may at times be requested to perform other duties or special projects as assigned, which are in the best interest of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Additionally, specific duties and percentages may vary slightly between each Animal Care Team.

*All employees must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily and, upon request, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

Experience Required

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION & FORMAL TRAINING: Bachelor’s degree in biology, animal science, zoology, or related field desired. Applicable experience can be substituted in place of formal education on a year-for-year basis for candidates not currently holding a degree. EXPERIENCE: Previous hands-on experience with the care and management of similar species is desired. Knowledge of animal husbandry, behavior, procedures for proper care, and training of exotic animals. Strong observational skills to recognize and evaluate conditions of animal health, diets, and behavior. Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office, required. Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions, including procedures for care and maintenance of animals, habitats, service and holding areas. Strong verbal and written communication skills. OTHER MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Must have valid driver’s license. Must have or be able to obtain negative TB test. Must be able to lift 50 pounds and have sufficient mobility to ensure a safe work environment. Must be able to stand for extended periods of time. Must be able to manage stress, endure high risk situations when feeding, transferring, or restraining animals, and make immediate decisions concerning the safety of animals, staff, or the public. Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and evening hours, in all weather extremes. Must pass a background and drug screening.