POSITION SUMMARY:
The Animal Keeper performs all job assignments with a professional and positive attitude that reflects Jungle Island’s mission and vision of connecting people, wildlife, and conservation. The Animal Keeper, under general supervision, performs a wide variety of functions in the training, handling, and care of exhibit animals. An Animal Keeper must have the ability to understand and execute plans as directed by the supervisor. This position will perform general husbandry and animal care tasks, such as cleaning, feeding, handling animals for procedures, record keeping, exhibit maintenance, and training as well as a wide variety of moderately difficult tasks in relation to operating an accredited zoological facility. The Animal Keeper should be prepared to work in a fast-paced, sometimes challenging environment. Animal Keepers should also be prepared to work in all types of weather, on weekends and holidays. This position will also be expected to participate and perform in Jungle Island’s “Guardians of the Jungle” stage presentation and other shows as necessary. The Animal Keeper will interact regularly with animals as well as park guests to provide world-class experiences that are signature to Jungle Island. This position reports to the Supervisor of Animal Care.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES:
- Daily cleaning of exhibits and facilities
- Animal food prep and storage
- Feed and provide any necessary husbandry for collection animals
- Participate in “Guardians of the Jungle” and other stage presentations
- Work with supervisors to develop and maintain an enrichment plan for collection animals
- Comfortably work with reptiles, large birds, and mammals
- Train and maintain animal behaviors as directed by the Supervisor and Animal Care Curator
- Safely transport animals as necessary
- Handle animals in the park near guests, on stage, on camera as well as at off-site, public appearances
- Provide a high degree of customer service while displaying an outgoing personality
- Ensure safety of the public, staff, and animals
- Administer prescribed medication and nutritional supplements as directed by the Supervisor of Animal Care or Curator in accordance with the Veterinarians’ instructions
- Assist medical staff as necessary in treatment of animals
- Maintain feeding, medical, and other records regarding animal care daily
- Conduct special tours, VIP meet and greets, and perform/handle animals in Jungle Island shows
- Perform public relations visits at media and other outlets as necessary
- Maintain area equipment to assure all is in working order
- Use power tools for exhibit maintenance
- Must be willing to work nights, weekends and holidays as required
Qualifications
LICENSE/QUALIFICATIONS:
- A college degree in any of the biological sciences or psychology is preferred.
- Two years’ experience as Keeper 1 or equivalent
- Candidates may substitute the equivalent in experience working with exotic animals and utilizing operant conditioning techniques to train a variety of exotic animals.
- Knowledge of training animals, animal handling and husbandry is required.
- Experience in behavior modification using operant conditioning via positive reinforcement is a bonus.
A college degree in any of the biological sciences or psychology is preferred. Applicants may substitute the equivalent in experience working with exotic animals where applicable. Knowledge of animal handling and husbandry practices is required. It is necessary that an applicant’s combined education and experience clearly demonstrate the knowledge and skills outlined. The ability to produce a valid Florida driver license may be required.
SKILLS/APTITUDES:
- Familiar with natural histories of a wide range of species
- Great interpersonal/customer service skills
- Ability to maintain a professional appearance and conduct themselves positively and professionally in all aspects of the job
- Experience in the care, feeding, and safe handling of a variety of exotic animals
- Able to perform in Jungle Island animal shows and events
- Follows directions
- Keep electronic health and behavioral records as required
- Able to communicate and work effectively with others
- Ability to work promptly and efficiently
- Provide world-class guest experiences
- Monitor animal behavior and appearance and communicate any abnormalities effectively
- Operate motorized equipment and vehicles
- Be an ambassador for Jungle Island inside and outside of the park
- Capable of lifting 50lbs standing, bending, squatting, twisting, and reaching; can work on uneven terrain and move around on slippery surfaces
- Can handle frequent exposure to predictable and controllable hazards associated with close contact with a wide variety of animals (including large animals, birds, and reptiles); dust, and allergens; handle hazardous materials; work in cramped or confined spaces
- Must be able to work outside, in water, and in all weather condition
- Must be available to work nights, weekends, and holidays
