Zookeeper

Zookeeper
Riverside Discovery Center is currently seeking a full-time Zookeeper who will work with
a variety of animals including: hoofstock, reptiles, small and large carnivore and primate
species, small mammals, and birds. This position does include working with a troop of 5
chimpanzees. The zoo staff works in a positive, team-oriented environment to enhance
our mission to inspire a sense of awe and stewardship for the natural world by
supporting conservation, education, discovery, and recreation.
Job Duties include but are not limited to:
● Carrying out all aspects of daily care for animals in the zoo collection.
● Maintaining clean, safe, and organized exhibits, holding areas, service areas,
and equipment.
● Preparing and feeding appropriate diets as per established feeding practices and
diet sheets.
● Administering prescribed medications, supplements, or treatments under the
guidance of veterinary and supervisory staff.
● Monitoring and reporting animal health and behavior concerns to supervisor staff.
● Designing, executing, and distributing a variety of enrichment on a daily basis.
● Training collection animals utilizing operant conditioning.
● Identifying potential maintenance or safety issues and reporting them to
supervisor staff.
● Will aid the education department in the delivery of education programs when
needed, and will routinely interact with the public through keeper talks and
training demonstrations.
● May oversee the training of animal care interns, seasonal staff, or volunteers.
This position includes working in all areas of the zoo, areas are assigned on a rotating
basis. A successful candidate will have excellent time management skills, be able to
work independently but also efficiently in a team environment, have strong
communication skills with both team members and zoo guests, and overall have a
passion for providing excellent animal welfare. Guest interaction and education is vitally
important to our mission of inspiring people to act on the behalf of threatened wildlife, so
the individual chosen for this position should be skilled in guest engagement, feel
comfortable speaking in front of small and large audiences, and be able to find creative
ways to inspire those who visit and support the zoo.

Qualifications and Experience
● Associates or Bachelors degree with a major in Biology, Zoology, or a related
science is preferred. Relevant experience may be substituted.
● A minimum of a year of experience in a zoo or related facility.
● Physically able to stoop, bend, reach, climb, and carry or push at least 50 lbs.
● Ability to work in hot Nebraska summers and extreme cold winter conditions.
● Must have a valid Driver’s License.
● Must be willing to work weekends, holidays, and special events as needed.
● Preferred experience in utilizing power tools for minor carpentry and exhibit
modifications.
● Must demonstrate initiative and advanced problem solving skills.
● Must be familiar with USDA and AZA policies.
Perks
● Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance.
● PTO accrued based on hours worked.
● Increased pay rate on holidays
Salary
$13.50 - $15.00 an hour based on experience

How to Apply
Please email resume, cover letter, and 3 professional references to
[email protected]. Questions may also be directed to this email.