Carnivore Zookeeper

The Dakota Zoo is an AZA and ZAA accredited facility located in Bismarck, North Dakota. This 90-acre facility houses around 500 mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish representing 125 species. The Dakota Zoo participates in over 16 Species Survival Plan programs for endangered or threatened species and has served as a rehabilitation facility for injured and orphaned raptors for over 50 years. The Dakota Zoo is proud to be involved with numerous conservation initiatives both locally and globally.

This person is directly supervised by the Senior Keeper, Animal Staff Supervisor, and ultimately the Assistant Zoo Director and Zoo Director.

Performs daily zookeeping activities which includes feeding, cleaning, assessing welfare, documenting observations, behavioral training, animal enrichment, and all other aspects of animal care at the Dakota Zoo.  Performs other duties as assigned which includes but is not limited to general maintenance of exhibits and grounds, maintenance of equipment, maintaining animal food supplies, assisting in medical duties and other miscellaneous tasks.  Continues to develop knowledge of animals at our facility and shares this information with other staff, public, and volunteers. Participates in empathy focused keeper chats, zoo camps, animal encounters, and other miscellaneous education opportunities. Assists with local and regional conservation efforts. Willing to be a positive team player and continues to maintain and build strong communication with coworkers and managers.

This position works primarily with the zoo’s carnivores and raptor rehab program. Animals include tiger, snow leopard, grizzly bear, river otter, grey wolf, various bird of prey, various canid species, and other miscellaneous taxa. This is a benefited position.

Desirable Education, Experience and Qualifications

• Degree in Zoology, Biology, or related field preferred.
• Ability to serve as a positive, energetic, and supportive co-worker.
• Strong communication skills and willingness to work with a team.
• Experience with and knowledge of animal husbandry practices, including operant conditioning and enrichment, preferable from an AZA or ZAA accredited facility.
• Experience with and knowledge of animal records keeping systems, preferable from an AZA or ZAA accredited facility.
• Experience with and knowledge of dangerous animals including big cats, bears, and other various carnivores, preferable from an AZA or ZAA accredited facility.
• Displays a professional attitude and appearance to visitors, volunteers, and co-workers.
• Possession of a valid North Dakota driver’s license, or ability to gain within 3 months.