Zookeeper

Class Concept

This is a professional animal position assigned to specific species of wildlife animals at the North Carolina Zoo. Responsibilities include maintaining the health and care of animals following Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) standards. Position feeds the animals, maintains animal/exhibit holding hygiene, assesses animals' health, behavior, safety, and containment. Position manages animal records, administers prescribed preventative medical procedures and medical treatments, provides environmental enrichment, and operant conditioning for the assigned animals. Position conducts educational programs to the public regarding the animal's ecology, key conservation issues, exhibit themes or natural history.

Recruitment Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Working knowledge of basic animal biology, anatomy, and physiology.
• Working knowledge of animal's natural history and behavior.
• Working knowledge of life support systems and operations.
• Ability to conduct oral informal public presentations.
• Ability to physically capture, handle and restrain live wild and potentially dangerous animals with use of associated capture equipment.
• Skills to identify and interpret subtle changes in animal health and behavior.

Minimum Education and Experience

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.