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.
- 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.
