Elephant Keeper

Fort Worth Zoo

For more information, please visit: https://us63.dayforcehcm.com/CandidatePortal/en-US/fwzoo/Posting/View/1088 

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 Department; 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

• Bachelors 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

Smithsonian's National Zoological Park has posted a job opening for Biologist (Assistant Elephant Curator).

For more information, please visit: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/701153600?fbclid=IwAR0vDTrrinv897df1HzU00FL-wpzxEycsAZNsWRTmJkfokOO_kYINdAxwk4 

JOB SUMMARY  

Dallas Zoo, the oldest and largest in Texas, and a highly respected AZA-accredited zoo, seeks an outcome driven leader and compelling communicator to serve as its Senior Curator (“SC”), Large Mammals. This is a rare opportunity to provide leadership to a world-class animal care and welfare program at a transformational moment for the organization. Dallas Zoo is boldly planning for large-scale renovations while remaining anchored in an innovative strategic mission focused on engaging people and saving wildlife: building empathy for animals, inspiring curiosity, and leading twelve key conservation initiatives (“Protecting the Twelve”) to save wildlife.

A pillar in the DFW community for generations, Dallas Zoo is on track to welcome over one million guests annually in the coming fiscal year, and cares for approximately 2,000 animals of approximately 350 vertebrate species. The Senior Curator will be part of the Zoo’s curatorial team, consisting of 12 leaders committed to guiding the organization at the highest level, and ensuring that teams continue to provide outstanding care to the animals which call DZ home.

Established in 1888, Dallas Zoo is preparing to launch its next major capital campaign, focusing on infrastructure improvements and revitalization of some of its oldest animal habitats. This ambitious plan prepares the Zoo for its next 50+ years by accelerating access and connection to nature for all. The new Senior Curator will play a pivotal role in the execution of this transformation: collection plans and designs for mixed-species habitats that will bring some of the Zoo’s most impactful spaces back to life (including the Wilds of Africa, once visible via the Adventure Safari Monorail, but offline over the last two years). Reopening these habitats will bring new opportunities to impact conservation messaging, as well as DZ’s involvement supporting sustainable animal populations: early predictions indicate that renovations will support the addition of 15-20 animal species, new (or returning) to Dallas Zoo, including two African rhino species. An effective SC will create pathways for collaboration that lead to creative and engaging animal habitats, greater scientific discovery, and even higher levels of care for DZ’s incredible animal population.

With a combined team of close to 50 animal care staff and oversight of a diverse animal collection (of over 100 animals, including elephants, hippos, giraffes, okapi, equids, antelope, and birds), the Senior Curator, Large Mammals, reports to the Associate Vice President, Animal Care & Welfare, and occupies a strategic leadership role in the Zoo.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

•     Mentor and guide the activities of an animal management team (including Associate Curators, Zoological Managers, Assistant Zoological Managers);

•     Oversee development, implementation and supervision of safe, proper protocols for all aspects of care for the assigned animal collection including sanitation, health, nutrition, reproduction, behavior, and behavioral husbandry;

•     Cooperatively develop and implement comprehensive collection plans for each section of the department, soliciting input from various internal and external stakeholders;

•     Direct the safe coordination of animal acquisitions and deaccessions, in support of Dallas Zoo’s Institutional Collection Plan, liaising effectively with AZA animal programs;

•     Direct the implementation of staff training programs in areas of animal care, facilities maintenance and operation;

•     Actively recruit staff, interns and volunteers, working cooperatively with Associate Curators and Zoological Managers to strategically develop a dynamic team of animal care professionals;

•     Formulate, communicate and implement DZM management policies, and supervise staff training in safety and security policies;

•     Assist in ongoing development of a ZIMS-based records system documenting activities and events within the Savanna’s animal collection; prepare required reports summarizing department activities;

•     Collaborate with veterinary staff in the medical care of the designated animal collection;

•     Collaborate in production of interpretive graphics associated with animal exhibits;

•     Manage buildings, exhibits, holding areas and grounds of relevant areas; prioritize maintenance;

•     Develop short- and long-term strategies to activate and/or refresh existing exhibits, plan for renovations, and explore concepts for new interactive spaces (maximizing quality of life for animals, guests and staff);

•     Serve as project manager, as assigned, for design, construction and/or installation of new habitat features;

•     Coordinate and conduct research, and/or produce popular or scientific papers concerning biology and captive management of wild animals;

•     Identify and prioritize budgetary requests, including capital improvements, major maintenance, time and material projects, minor tools and equipment, professional services, animal purchase and animal transportation; administer budgets, monitor expense and prepare reports;

•     Collaborate with other departments/divisions to further develop programs and facilities that improve upon the organization’s operations, and/or facilities;

•     Represent the Department and/or DZM at professional meetings, conferences or in the media as required;

•     Follow all safety protocols, understanding the Senior Curator’s role in emergency procedures, and serving as a member of Dallas Zoo’s Emergency Response Team.

•     Perform other duties as assigned.

      

QUALIFICATIONS

•     A Bachelor’s degree in biology or related science field is PREFERRED; graduate degree considered beneficial;

•     Must have extensive knowledge of animal husbandry, at least fifteen years preferred of exotic animal care experience at an AZA-accredited facility, and at least ten years at a supervisory level PREFERRED;

•     Must be solution-oriented, finding creative solutions for complex challenges;

•     Demonstrated interest and expertise in management, reproduction of diverse mammal species;

•     Comprehensive knowledge of mammal reproduction, as well as neonate care;

•     Comprehensive knowledge of behavioral management, including operant conditioning philosophy, techniques, and terminology, as well as benefits and goals of environmental enrichment;

•     Excellent facilitation, as well as communication skills, both oral and written;

•     Comfort with computer software: MS Word, Excel, Outlook, Power Point;

•     Ability to represent the Zoo in a professional manner at all times;

•     Ability to exercise sound judgment in emergency situations and to respond with appropriate action;

•     Ability to work with minimal supervision, must be self-directed;

•     Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationship with management, other employees & zoo guests;

•     Must be able to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull bend, climb stairs and ladders and carry up to 50 lbs;

•     Must be able to work holidays and weekends, assuming and performing similar duties at regular and irregular hours as required;

•     Must be able to actively work outdoors in hot, cold, or inclement weather;

•     Successful candidate must pass pre-employment drug screening, background check and TB test;

•     Must have a valid driver’s license to operate zoo vehicles and reliable transportation.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by personnel assigned to this job and is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all duties to be assigned.

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Interested candidates can apply at this link:

https://app.jobvite.com/j?cj=opYxkfwY&s=EMA

ADVANCED ANIMAL CARE SPECIALIST – ELEPHANT TEAM (FULL TIME)

• Kansas City Zoo

  6800 Zoo Drive, Kansas City, MO 64132

  How to Apply:  https://jobapply.page.link/jXTCq

  Starting Pay:  $16.50/Hour

   

   

  Position Description:

  The Advanced 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 exhibit and holding areas, as well as interacts with the public to provide information related to the Zoo’s animal collection. This position requires prior experience and advanced knowledge of animal care. This position will also have latitude to initiate and carry out new training proposals and behaviors, as well as assist with the training of new animal care staff and volunteers.  

  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. ·      Giving medications and assisting with various animal health procedures. ·      Observing, logging, and reporting issues concerning animal behavior, health and welfare. ·      Training animals for all types of behaviors, including husbandry, enrichment and medical. ·      Initiating and carrying out new training proposals and behaviors. ·      Creating and implementing various enrichment items/strategies. ·      Assists with the training of new animal care staff, interns, and volunteers as needed.	40%
  Completes daily maintenance of exhibits and holding areas, including: ·      Cleaning exhibits, holding stalls and staff areas. ·      Performing minor repairs and improvements. ·      Reporting maintenance issues and potential safety hazards to appropriate manager. ·      Assists with the training of new animal care staff, interns, and volunteers as needed.	35%
  Maintains daily reports and other required records.	10%
  Interacts with Zoo guests and the public, including: ·      Performing various animal chats and animal shows, as well as assisting with special events related to assigned area. ·      Leading tours within area, as assigned. ·      Engaging with daily visitors to answer questions about the Zoo and animals.	10%
  Assisting with and traveling for animal shipments, as needed.	5%

  *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.  Additionally, specific duties and percentages may vary slightly between each Animal Care Team.

  Minimum Qualifications:

• A.    Education & Formal Training:
• a.     Bachelor’s Degree in biology, animal science, zoology or related field preferred.
• b.    High school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate accepted with prior experience in similar position.
• B.    Experience:
• a.     At least 4 years’ related Zoo or animal husbandry experience required.
• b.    Knowledge of animal husbandry, behavior and procedures for proper care and training of exotic animals.
• c.     Strong observation skills to recognize and evaluate conditions of animal health, diets and behavior.

• d.    Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office, preferred.
• e.     Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions, including procedures for care and maintenance of animals, exhibit, service and holding areas.

• f.      Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• C.    Other Minimum Requirements:
• a.     Must have valid driver’s license.
• b.    Must have or be able to obtain negative TB test.
• c.     Must be able to lift 50 pounds and have sufficient mobility to ensure a safe work environment.
• d.    Must be able to stand for extended periods of time.
• e.     Must be able to tolerate stress, endure high risk situations when feeding, transferring, or restraining animals, and make immediate decisions concerning the safety of animals, staff or the public.
• f.      Must be willing to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays and evening hours, in all weather extremes.
• g.     Must pass a background and drug screening.

 

The Louisville Zoo is excited to announce an additional Assistant Curator of Mammals position!  Our diverse mammal community runs the gamut with pachyderms, pinnipeds, ungulates, primates, carnivores and marsupials represented. Everything from naked mole-rats to African elephants!  Our AZA award winning facilities “Gorilla Forest”, “Glacier Run” and “Islands” are indicative of a dedication to innovative habitat design with special focus on animal training, space rotation, choice/ control and overall welfare. The new AC will join a team including two highly experienced ACs, a large dedicated keeper team and will report directly to the General Curator.  As a huge bonus, Louisville is a progressive and fun city surrounded by the natural beauty of forests rolling hills, caverns and waterways.   

Successful candidates will possess:

• exemplary understanding of animal behavior motivation, behavior management and operant conditioning application.
• significant experience with some combination of mammalian megafauna with strong emphasis on elephants.
• a positive and progressive approach to animal program management, team development and guest engagement.

Interested? Please check out additional details about the position and apply at  https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/louisvilleky/jobs/3761206/zoo-assistant-curator?department[0]=Zoo&sort=PositionTitle%7CAscending&pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs       

Please note that the job description you will read on the Louisville Metro site is a standard form the city uses for Assistant Curator position postings. The position we are hiring for does not include the Commissary as it mentions. Glacier Run (pinnipeds and bears) may also be part of the position based on the winning candidates experience but not necessarily mandatory.   

Please contact General Curator, Ron Evans, if you have any questions. ron.evans@louisvilleky.gov

Associate Director of Animal Care -Utah’s Hogle Zoo

POSITION SUMMARY 

The Associate Director(s) of Animal Care (ADAC) are responsible for the management of the Zoo’s animals and keeper staff. This position collaborates with the Director of Animal Care to develop short-term and long-term animal plans to ensure the sustainability and well-being of the Zoo's animal populations and manages staff in various related activities. The ADAC reinforces and advances the Zoo's mission through participation in conservation, well-being programs and AZA programs on behalf of Utah’s Hogle Zoo.  

This position currently oversees the programs and Animal Care Supervisors in the Elephant and Africa areas. Current collection includes: African elephants, white rhinos, bald eagles, ostrich, warthogs, Hartmann’s mountain zebra, lions, giraffe, meerkats, crested porcupine and guinea fowl.  This position will also oversee a portion of the new Wild Utah exhibit that includes big horn sheep, mountain lions and burros.  Preference will be given to those candidates with a strong background in elephant management. 

 

At Utah's Hogle Zoo we seek employees who are passionate about conservation, who approach their daily work with a can do attitude, exhibit resourcefulness, approach their daily work with a can-do attitude, and communicate respectfully with everyone. The ideal candidate will come to work ready to apply their skill and enthusiasm towards the Zoo's mission of "Creating Champions for Wildlife."  

 

Pay Range: $65,000 yearly minimum

REPORTING RELATIONSHIP 

Reports directly to the Director of Animal Care and serves on the Zoo’s leadership team.  

WHY HOGLE ZOO? Are you an animal care professional looking to lead a crew of extremely talented and passionate animal devotees?  Are you looking for a medium size zoo with a family like atmosphere? Are you a leader who seeks opportunities to continually learn and grow? Then Utah’s Hogle Zoo may be the place for you. We are looking for people who want to grow with us as we create a rich culture of creative, collaborative, passionate animal care professionals.

Be a part of the Zoo as we build our newest exhibit, Wild Utah! Slated to open in 2023, the exhibit will focus on native Utah species. Join us as we update our master plan with a focus on the renovation of our Small Animal Building, our Elephant Experience, and our Great Ape facilities. Make your contribution to a rich tradition of elevated behavior husbandry, guest engagement, professional development, and top animal welfare. 

If all of this sounds exciting to you, then come and excel with us at Utah’s Hogle Zoo!

 

ABOUT UTAH’S HOGLE ZOO

For over 90 years, Utah’s Hogle Zoo has been a loved and trusted part of the community. Located within Salt Lake City proper, the Zoo is nestled in the foothills of the Wasatch Mountain range at the mouth of Emigration Canyon. The Zoo spans over 42 acres and is home to a diverse collection of animals. Being only minutes from both a vibrant downtown and national wilderness area, Salt Lake City is a dream for cultural aficionados and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This city has it all from professional sports teams, theater, cultural attractions, universities, nightlife, and many green spaces. From mountain ranges to deserts, Utah is home to five National and 45 State parks. Few places have so much, so close to where you live and work, but we pull it off with style and ease at Utah’s Hogle Zoo.

PERKS 

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and other supplemental insurance.  
• The Zoo is a part of the Utah Retirement System and makes a 10% contribution to an employee’s retirement. This includes an additional opportunity to make contributions to a 401K plan within URS.  
• $3000 relocation allowance for qualifying new employees.  
• Vacation days: New employees accrue up to 13 days annually of vacation time.  
• Sick days: New employees accrue up to 10 days annually of sick time.
• Nine paid holidays in the year. 
• Employee Assistance Program for employees and their families paid for by the Zoo.  
• Employee long-term disability insurance paid for by the Zoo.  
• Various employee reimbursements and contributions including wellness activities and professional development.
• Every employee receives a free Zoo Card that allows admission to the employee and up to 5 guests. It also provides free carousel and train rides, as well as free admittance to ZooLights and BooLights.  
• 50% discount on concessions and 33.3% discount on gift shops items.  
• Tickets at Work membership, which provides discounts and offers on theme parks, shows, sporting events, and travel. 

• Awesome coworkers who care about animals and each other!        

Please click on the link below for more information and to apply for the position:

https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=8466ea70-0d62-4447-aa78-ae0276dc27bc&ccId=19000101_000001&jobId=448679&lang=en_US&source=EN

JOB TITLE:  ASSISTANT ZOOLOGICAL MANAGER - ELEPHANTS

REPORTS TO: ZOOLOGICAL MANAGER - ELEPHANTS

DEPARTMENT: LARGE MAMMALS

DATE: OCTOBER 2022

JOB SUMMARY
This is a “working” supervisory position in animal care, working closely with the Associate Curators and the Curator to lead a team of Zoologists, covering daily routines as assigned, and providing exceptional care to the species housed in a given section. The Assistant Zoological Manager assists in the daily operation of the department, management of animal husbandry programs, and maintenance of associated facilities. The Assistant Zoological Manager will serve as the primary contact and liaison for their assigned section in the absence of the Zoological Manager, and provide leadership to animal care staff.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Organize and coordinate assigned section’s daily activities, overseeing animal care staff in all areas, and delegating tasks per Curatorial team’s direction;
• Lead by example: maintain familiarity with all aspects of husbandry routines, assisting if needed;
• Assist in the hiring of, then train, animal care staff in all aspects of husbandry: diet preparation, feeding, cleaning and maintenance of exhibits;
• Assist in the implementation of protocols and operating procedures to maintain high level of sanitation, animal care, and safety;
• Observe and monitor animals regularly for health and behavioral issues;
• Assist with veterinary treatments and procedures, reporting relevant animal health situations to veterinarians and curator;
• Oversee animal propagation, sharing expertise with staff, ensuring that facilities and staff are well prepared prior to relevant breeding events;
• Coordinate safe animal capture and restraint, as well as transfer within the zoo, in compliance with professional industry standards;
• Coordinate, perform, and train staff for safe handling, restraint, translocation of animals within assigned work section potentially including dangerous and/or venomous species;
• Communicate thoroughly and efficiently and ensure accuracy of records in all areas of responsibility;
• Actively manage, and participate in, operant conditioning and environmental enrichment programs for animals within the section;
• Ensure exhibits meet high standards of animal welfare and aesthetics: prioritize exhibit enhancement projects, participate in renovations, and demonstrate effective exhibit maintenance strategies;
• Follow all safety protocols, understanding the Assistant Zoological Manager’s role in emergency procedures, and serving as a member of Dallas Zoo’s Emergency Response Team;
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS
• A Bachelor’s degree in biology, animal science, or a related field is preferred, but not required;
• Must have knowledge of animal husbandry, with at least seven years preferred of exotic animal care experience at an AZA-accredited facility (ideally with Elephants)
• Must be solution-oriented, finding creative solutions for complex challenges;
• Demonstrated interest and expertise in management, reproduction of diverse species;
• Comprehensive knowledge of reproduction, as well as neonate care;
• Comprehensive knowledge of behavioral management, including operant conditioning philosophy, techniques and terminology, as well as benefits and goals of environmental enrichment;
• Ability to remain aware and alert while working around potentially dangerous animals at all times;
• Incumbent should have broad interests in research, behavior and conservation;
• Excellent facilitation, as well as communication skills, both oral and written;
• Comfort with computer software: MS Word, Excel, Outlook, Power Point;
• Ability to represent the Zoo in a professional manner at all times;
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in emergency situations and to respond with appropriate action;
• Ability to work with minimal supervision, must be self-directed;
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationship with management, other employees & zoo guests;
• Must be able to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull bend, climb stairs and ladders and carry up to 50 lbs;
• Must be able to work holidays and weekends;
• Must be able to actively work outdoors in hot or inclement weather;
• Successful candidates must pass pre-employment drug screening, background check and TB test;
• Must have a valid driver’s license to operate zoo vehicles and reliable transportation.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by personnel assigned to this job and is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all duties to be assigned. 

For more information and to apply, please visit https://app.jobvite.com/j?cj=o83llfwB&s=EMA 

Job Title: Seasonal Animal Care Assistant- Elephants

• FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

  Hours: This is a seasonal position that can work up to 40hrs per week. Position runs through the end of 2022.

  About the role: 

  We are looking for an enthusiastic and driven animal care professional to join our team as our herd has grown by two! Our program tends to be unique to other programs in the US currently. We have 5 wild born females, one zoo born breeding male, and 2 calves with 2 more on the way. We have tasked ourselves to maintain them as a socially cohesive herd and minimize the impact we have in taking away their time to be elephants. Translation, we do not train every elephant every day! We manage their living spaces to provide the opportunities needed for skin care and exercise to maintain optimum welfare and a healthy herd. We continually evaluate behavior to maintain and improve female herd dynamics, facilitate natural breeding, and provide for appropriate social opportunities for all our herd members. We strive to provide the maximum amount of choice and control to our elephants with everything that we do. Qualified candidates must function as a part of the elephant team to ensure a safe and productive work environment. Duties will include but are not limited to all aspects of the daily management of African elephants including daily cleaning and exhibit maintenance, feeding, enrichment, detailed record keeping, behavioral observations, browse identification, general maintenance, public demonstrations, and all other duties as assigned.

  Duties and Responsibilities (include but not limited to):

• ·       General exhibit and holding area cleaning and maintenance
• o   Cleaning all elephant holding and exhibit spaces
• o   Cleaning all tools, equipment, and service areas
• o   Weed eating in and around habitats
• ·       Planning, implementing, and evaluating daily resource management to improve elephant wellness 
• ·       Diet prep and daily supply runs to the commissary
• ·       Behavioral observations, video review, and detailed record keeping
• ·       Collection and identification of approved browse species
• ·       Regular team meetings

• Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• ·       At least 3 months of internship experience in animal husbandry, preferably with elephants or other large mammals, at an AZA accredited institution.
• ·       An ability to work in a fast paced and dynamic environment. 
• ·       The ability to work well as part of a team, by listening and contributing.
• ·       An understanding of behavioral welfare and its importance.
• ·       An understanding of behavior-based enrichment, how to implement and evaluate its effectiveness.
• ·       The ability to follow all protocols and standard operating procedures to assure the highest level of animal welfare.
• ·       Be able to give/receive constructive criticism regardless of prior experience.
• ·       Excellent communication skills, written and verbal, both with their peers and all other zoo personnel.
• ·       Great attention to detail in all aspects of their work and record keeping.
• ·       An excellent safety records.
• ·       A strong work ethic.
• ·       Strong public speaking skills. 
• ·       Basic computer skills for data entry utilizing Microsoft programs.

• Candidates might be (depending on position) required to pass a pre-employment background check, drug test, negative skin tuberculosis test, and possess a valid driver’s license with a good history.

  Working Conditions and Physical Effort:

• ·       Will sometimes work extended/odd hours including weekends, holidays, and some night programs.
• ·       Must be able to walk long distances across the zoo.
• ·       Must be able to work outdoors for prolonged periods in the weather and temperature extremes common to Omaha, Nebraska.
• ·       Must be able to stand, sit, kneel, bend, twist, reach above head and climb.
• ·       Will lift, push, pull, and/or move up to 50 pounds routinely and occasionally up to 70 pounds using safe and proper lifting methods.
• ·       The position involves working within 3+ acres of outdoor exhibit space and a 25,000 square foot elephant barn. 
• ·       Exposure to biting flies and mosquitos is likely.
• ·       Standard workday often has minimal keeper/elephant interaction

DISCLAIMER

The information presented indicates the general nature and level of work expected of employees in this classification. It is not designed to contain, nor is it to be interpreted as, a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and objectives required of employees assigned to this job. 

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer as defined by the EEOC.

Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium

International Conservation Center

Position Description

Position Title:        Elephant Keeper                                                       Job Code:                

Department:          ICC                                                                                    Job Grade:              

Reports To:            Area Supervisor/Curator of Large Mammals  FLSA Status:           Hourly, Non-Exempt

Summary:

The International Conservation Center is located on approximately 1,000 acres surrounded by the rolling hills of Somerset, PA.  We are looking for a dedicated, safety conscious and team oriented individual to help us advance our elephant program.  This is an exciting opportunity to join in promoting conservation and providing exemplary care for our breeding herd of African elephants at our unique facility.

Purpose:

To provide care to the elephant collection at the ICC and other species as assigned.

 

Essential Job Functions:

Duties include but are not limited to:

• Diet preparation, husbandry, training, observation and record keeping.
• Maintain and clean in and around animal habitats and inspect perimeters for security.
• Assist veterinarian in animal examination and treatment and provide medical care as prescribed.
• Assist in the collection of data for research studies.
• Assist in animal restraint and transportation as required. 
• Speak to guests and conduct tours for educational programs.
• Participate in training programs at the ICC or other locations.
• Assist in providing training to staff or volunteers as requested.

Performance Factors:

·       Safety:  The employee exercises caution and follows safety protocols in all aspects of the job.

·       Attendance and Dependability:  The employee can be depended on to report to work at the scheduled time, complete work in a timely, accurate and thorough manner and is conscientious about assignments.

·       Communication and Contact: The employee communicates effectively both verbally and in writing with supervisors, colleagues, guests, and vendors inside and outside the ICC.

• Working Relationships:  The employee exhibits a professional manner and relates well with others. The employee works to maintain constructive working relationships with coworkers and to develop an effective training partnership with the animals based on respect and positive reinforcement.

• Education/Experience/Knowledge/Skills:

• ·       Bachelor’s degree in animal science or related field and 3 years professional paid experience working with elephants or 5 years professional paid experience working with elephants in lieu of a degree.  
• ·       Experience with bulls and calves is desirable. 
• ·       Knowledge of operant conditioning.
• ·       Knowledge of personal computer and general office equipment required. 
• ·       Knowledge of or ability to learn to operate heavy machinery.

Physical Requirements:

This position is required to work in all weather conditions in a farm setting.  May be required to lift, carry, push and/or pull up to 50 pounds unassisted.  

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume with salary requirements to:

HR@pittsburghzoo.org

or

Zoological Society of Pittsburgh

Human Resources Department

One Wild Place, Pittsburgh, PA  15206

EOE

The Elephant Managers Association is dedicated to the welfare and survival of the world's elephants through improving communication, husbandry, research, education, and conservation. To help further EMA's mission, we are hosting a virtual workshop focusing on blood draw training. Participants will review training sessions, ask questions, and exchange ideas.

The workshop will be hosted virtually on August 18, 2022, at 4:00pm EST, and it is free for all current EMA members to participate. Non-members are invited to participate for a $25 fee.

If you are interested in attending, please email the Board of Directors at EMAboard@elephantmanagers.com.