Zoo Keeper I
The City of Alexandria is seeking professional individuals to begin a career in the City of Alexandria Zoo, located in the heart of Central Louisiana to perform manual and semi-skilled work in the care of exotic zoo animals, including large cats, and the maintenance of zoo grounds and facilities. This is a position that emphasizes manual work in behind-the-scenes care of animals and exhibits; individuals in this class will gradually assume a higher level of independence working with the animals and a higher degree of interaction with the public. Work is performed under general supervision. This position needs a basic understanding of enrichment and behavioral husbandry (animal training) principles. This position needs a basic knowledge of AZA and USDA regulations concerning animal welfare that govern operations.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Performs general cleaning and maintenance of animal exhibits: removes and disposes of unconsumed food, manure, refuse, etc.; sweeps, rakes, hoses, and disinfects exhibits; and cleans feed troughs, bowls, and containers.
- Maintains exhibit materials: waters plants and flowers in and around exhibits; installs limbs and nesting or bedding materials; and cleans and maintains perches, nest boxes, props and decorative materials.
- Assists with the maintenance of the health and welfare of zoo animals: provides fresh food daily, preparing special diets for animal groups; provides sufficient water; assists in administering prescribed medications; inspects animals daily to ensure security and proper enclosure; and remains alert to any illness, abnormal behavior, physical conditions, and aggressive or potentially dangerous tendencies and reports these to a supervisor.
Located in the heart of Central Louisiana, Alexandria Zoo is a 22-acre municipally run facility and the area’s #1 year-round family attraction. A small staff, dedicated to the highest standard of animal welfare, cares for more than 400 animals representing approximately 140 species. A community treasure since its founding in 1922, Alexandria Zoo boasts an ardent community base of citizens, volunteers, board members, businesses and organizations devoted to supporting and improving the Zoo. Website: Thealexandriazoo.com. The zoo is currently in the AZA Pathways Toward Membership program and working towards accreditation.
Minimum Applicant Qualifications:
A.S. degree in one of the life sciences with at least two years of full-time, paid experience working with animals in an accredited institution; OR B.S. degree in one of the life sciences with experience working with animals; OR Five years full-time, paid experience working with animals in an accredited institution.
Must possess a valid driver’s license. Will be required to obtain a valid State of Louisiana driver’s license at time of appointment and maintain throughout employment for this classification.
Kind of Examination
This examination may consist of a written test, a rating of training and experience, a performance test or any combination thereof deemed necessary to adequately screen and rank applicants. Examination notices will be sent out via email with a testing date, time, and location. Applicants must supply complete and accurate information concerning their previous training and experience including a detailed description of their work experience, the names and addresses of all previous employers and the dates of employment. The information is subject to verification.
Benefits Offered:
Employer retirement contribution; sick and vacation leave; health, dental, vision, and supplemental insurances offered.
Work hours: 7:30am – 4:00pm, 5 days a week, likely include weekends, holidays and overtime
Must include copies of driver’s license, diploma, GED, DD214, degree, etc. with application.
