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Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center
Zoo Keeper - Rainforest
Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center
The Topeka Zoo Animal Care Staff is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Animal Care professional to join our team. Our Animal Care staff works with a variety of species while enriching the community through wildlife conservation and education.
While cross training may be required, this position will be the main keeper in the rainforest area. The rainforest area is a one-person area that consists of multiple mixed species birds, mammals, reptiles, plants, and invertebrates. This position may work directly with the zoo's Salt Creek Tiger Beetle recovery program depending on needs of the program. The best person for this role on our team will have excellent time management and animal observation skills. The current species list can be found here: https://topekazoo.org/rainforestlist/
You can expect to work with multiple species, participate and eventually run 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 daily 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 always maintained in a safe and functional manner. 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 that 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:
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.
Must be 18 years or older and drug free.
Ability to multitask, work in a fast-paced environment, engage appropriately with public, and work independently and as part of a team is expected.
Must have a valid driver’s license.
Ability to prioritize, organize and manage work effectively and efficiently to accomplish tasks while managing multiple projects at the same time and delivering friendly service.
Exceptionally detailed and organized.
Minimum qualifications:
One year of experience working with and caring for animals in a zoo setting.
Computer literacy MS products
How to Apply:
Submit resume and cover letter to Animal Curator, Wrylie Guffey wguffey@topekazoo.org
Benefits:
Medical/Dental and/Vision Insurance Options
Paid Life/Long Term Disability Insurance/EPA Benefits
Paid Vacation & Holidays
401K Options
Rate of Pay:
Starting rate is $16.80 / hour.
Salary
$16.80/hour
How to Apply
Submit resume and cover letter to Animal Curator, Wrylie Guffey wguffey@topekazoo.org
Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center
635 SW Gage Blvd
Topeka, KS 66615
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