Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center
Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center
Zoo Keeper - Primates
Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center
The Topeka Zoo Animal Care Staff is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Animal Care professional to join our Lianas Forest team. Our Animal Care staff works with a variety of species while enriching the community through wildlife conservation and education.
Animal Care staff member (Zoo Keeper)
You can expect to work with Sun Bear, Patas Monkeys, Guinea Fowl, Dik Dik and Orangutans. You will participate in training sessions, implement enrichment, be a vital team member in an AZA accredited zoo, do ZIMS record keeping system, daily feeding, husbandry and observations of the species. Follow the guidelines for Quality Standards for Animal Care which cover feeding, watering, cleaning of habitats, climate control, veterinary care, record keeping, as well as all applicable standards. Observe animals; notes change in health, social attitude, breeding techniques, behavior, diet etc. Reports changes to Veterinary and supervisor. Takes necessary action to encourage or discourage behavior. Implements training programs, using positive reinforcement, for animals on a daily basis to ensure cooperative and safe working conditions, and proper animal husbandry. Provides limited prescribed veterinary care including the administration of medications and treatments, observation and collection of samples. Assists in the capture and restraint of animals when necessary. Researches and gathers data on the natural habitat of various animals and prepares exhibits for public viewing that replicate their natural environment. This includes building, installation or changing of animal’s furnishings to encourage natural behaviors and to stimulate the animals physically and mentally.
Ensures the physical environment and habitat is maintained in a safe and functional manner at all times. This includes but is not limited to: performs minor repairs and maintenance to equipment and facilities; monitors the operation of life support systems such as sprinklers, fire alarms, temperature controls, electric fences, and water circulation; secures and rechecks all animal enclosures, service areas, and perimeter gates to ensure collection animals, the public are safe and secure.
Responsible for reporting and documenting any changes and/or failures of these systems; responding to emergencies. Must maintain a professional, courteous and tactful demeanor with the public and co-workers. Makes presentations to the public on animals, zoo life, nutrition and other important facets of the zoo. Works with various volunteer groups that support the zoo operations. This includes providing guidance to volunteers and interns who work with the Animal Care staff to ensure that the Quality Standards for Animal Care are maintained; and the safety of volunteers/interns and the animals are never in jeopardy. Our Animal Care staff does all of this while contributing positively to the workplace.
Requirements and Expectations:
· Associate degree in Zoo Keeping, Biology, Zoology, or closely related field (two years of zoo animal keeping experience can be substituted for one year of college in the life sciences)
· One year of experience caring for animals in a zoo setting, at least 6 months of primate experience.
· Must be able to stoop, climb, crawl, lift at least 50lbs, and work in all weather conditions
· Must pass a background check and provide proof of negative TB test within the past year.
· Ability to multitask, work in a fast paced environment, engage appropriately with public, work independently and as part of a team is expected.
· Must have a valid driver’s license
How to Apply:
· Submit resume and cover letter to Shanna Simpson and Wrylie Guffey at hiring@topekazoo.org. Please put “Animal Care position” in the subject line.
Salary
$15.30/hour
How to Apply
Submit resume and cover letter to Shanna Simpson and Wrylie Guffey at hiring@topekazoo.org. Please put “Animal Care position” in the subject line.
Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center
635 SW Gage Blvd
Topeka, KS 66606
Fax: Topeka Zoo and Conservati
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