Keeper, Carnivores Jobs

Position: Full-time Carnivore Keeper, with benefits

Posted: May 19, 2023

Organization: Saint Louis Zoo located in St. Louis, Missouri

Directly Reports to: Zoological Manager of Carnivores and the Curator of Carnivores

About the Saint Louis Zoo:

The world renowned Saint Louis Zoo is dedicated to saving species and bringing people and wildlife together. Home to over 16,000 animals, many of which are endangered. Entry is free every day for everyone, an important part of our commitment to people and animals – always.

Learn more at: https://stlzoo.org/

About St. Louis, Mo:

From Explore St. Louis: “Urban explorer, outdoor adventurer, aficionado of family fun – no matter your travel persona, you’ll find plenty to do in St. Louis. The city is brimming with free, world-class attractions and boasts an arts-and-culture scene that’s second to none. Plus, fans of fresh air will be surprised and delighted by our flourishing public parks, miles of trails and exhilarating waterways. Sprinkle in a bit of our secret sauce – the warmth and hospitality of the residents – and you’ll discover that St. Louis dishes up undeniably epic travel experiences. Don’t take our word for it, though. Come and see for yourself.” Learn more at https://explorestlouis.com/

Position Summary:

The Saint Louis Zoo is looking for a positive and experienced keeper to join the carnivore team to care for a diverse collection of carnivores which currently includes: big cats (snow leopard, Amur leopard, Amur tiger, puma, African lion), pinnipeds (California sea lions, harbor seals), bears (sun bear, grizzly, and polar bear), African painted dogs, red panda (and capybara, giant anteaters, and prairie dogs).

Responsibilities:

The well-being and care of our animals and our team is our highest priority at the Saint Louis Zoo. The keeper candidate chosen will work in all carnivore areas, which includes working with potentially dangerous animals.

Responsibilities include:

• Maintaining departmental records/documentation, including entering data into ZIMS.
• Exemplary animal care of animals in their charge with duties such as providing assistance in veterinary management (medicating and exams).
• Aiding the Zoo’s efforts to meet and exceed AZA and USDA standards.
• Participate in and support collaborative efforts pertaining to the care of the collection including training, enrichment, conservation, research, and education.
• Demonstrates a commitment to workplace safety, adhering to all area and Zoo safety and husbandry protocols and SOPs and works with supervisor and Safety Officer as needed.
• Responsible for special projects, procedures, and goals set forth by the area managers.
• Continual monitoring of habitats and public area condition with attention to detail.
• Must be dependable and reliable: be timely, responsive, and organized; meet deadlines, take responsibility, and help other zoo staff as needed.
• Public speaking and engagement with guests, staff, and other stakeholders.
• Employees must strive to decrease our environmental footprint to serve as models to our community to do the same through education and example.
• Animal observations and monitoring for behavioral and medical needs.
• Participating in the use of behavioral conditioning to train species for husbandry.
• Contribute to open team discussions and sharing ideas in positive and professional manner.
• Cleaning and maintaining habitats, bedrooms, and service areas and public areas as assigned.
• Performs duties in a service-oriented manner.
• Demonstrates a commitment to maintaining a work environment free from discrimination and sexual harassment and supports the Zoo’s commitment to equal employment opportunities.
• All team members must be dedicated to growing and improving our Zoo’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, Accessibility and Inclusion (DEAI).
• Maintains good work habits and adheres to the employee handbook and all policies and procedures.
• Recognizes the needs of others and treats others with respect and dignity.
• This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; therefore, the employee may be required to perform other reasonably related duties as assigned by management.
• Providing the animals enrichment to create a diverse and stimulating environment.

Qualifications:

• Candidates must have the physical ability to perform required duties as assigned, some strenuous, including: standing, sitting and walking for long periods of time, kneeling, bending, squatting, lifting (which may include up to 50 lbs.). Working outdoors in all types of weather conditions, including extreme heat and extreme cold, around insects, etc.
• Bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology, animal science or a related field.
• Demonstrate computer proficiency (experience with ZIMS a plus) to complete the functions of this position.
• Must be able to use light power tools after suitable training.
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Comfortable with and experience in public speaking preferred.
• Experience with operant conditioning and enrichment techniques is preferred.
• Acquiring and maintaining a Missouri driver’s license required.
• Must have the ability to: follow safety protocols, demonstrate focus, follow written verbal instructions, effectively promote organization, manage stress to perform the job effectively, remember details, manage time effectively, apply critical thinking techniques, analyze, and solve problems.
• Previous animal care experience with large carnivores such as bears, big cats, canids, etc. required. Paid experience working at an AZA institution a plus.
• Communicates effectively with supervisory staff, co-workers and other departments, both written and orally.
• SCUBA Diving certification is preferred.

Addition Job Details:

• Must be able and willing to work flexible hours, weekends, and holidays to cover animal needs and Zoo event needs.
• Days off would be a consecutive two day period between Monday-Friday.
• May need to travel to help with transfers, for professional development opportunities, etc.

We are seeking a team member who aligns with the values of the Saint Louis Zoo (creativity, community, openness, integrity and life-work balance), and actively embodies the carnivore unit vision and values (welfare, impact, safety, collaboration, and integrity), with ability to thrive in both a team and an independent work environment.

All successful candidates for this position will be required to submit to a criminal background check and drug test.

COVID vaccinations are required for this position.

Saint Louis Zoo Employee Benefits:

Employee Benefits

Position Closes: June 2, 2023