Zookeeper

The Metro Richmond Zoo’s mission is to promote animal conservation and inspire guests by providing up-close, educational encounters with the wild. The zoo is situated on 150 acres of land and is home to over 2,000 animals representing 190 species from around the world. The zoo is accredited by the Zoological Association of America and is well-known for its conservation programs for cheetahs, African penguins, and Diana monkeys.

 

Under the guidance of the lead keepers, zookeepers are responsible for providing high-quality care to all animals at the Metro Richmond Zoo including all species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates. Zookeepers prepare and distribute diets, clean exhibits, provide enrichment, and more. The zoo can assist zookeepers with housing if needed.

 

• Oversee daily husbandry for a wide variety of animals in zookeeper’s area
• Prepare and distribute regular and special animal diets
• Properly clean, disinfect, and maintain animal exhibits
• Spray, scrub, sweep, rake, shovel animal feces
• Prepare and distribute animal enrichment items
• Understand and maintain safety standards for animals, guests, and team members
• Observe animals daily to monitor health and well-being
• Observe animals daily to monitor for illness or injury and report appropriately to vet team and lead keepers
• Assist vet team as needed with administering medications, providing treatment, and handling animals
• Identify maintenance issues and resolve or report as necessary
• Document animal records with accuracy
• Assist in animal emergencies
• Daily interaction with public through the use of ambassador animals, keeper talks, and up-close experiences
• Lead education programs (zoo to you, behind-the-scenes tours, school presentations, animal encounters)
• Assist the zoo in any other duties