Location: Watertown,NY, USA
Zoo New York at Thompson Park / SUNY Jefferson Zoo Technology
Zookeeper
Position Overview:
Are you passionate about care of wildlife and eager to inspire the next generation of animal care professionals? Zoo New York is searching for an enthusiastic Zookeeper to join our team. As a Zookeeper, you'll go beyond daily animal care, engaging with guests, mentoring students and volunteers, and contributing to conservation efforts. With a unique partnership with SUNY Jefferson Community College's Zoo Technology Program, you'll play a pivotal role in training future zookeepers while maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare at our AZA-accredited facility.
Key Responsibilities:
* Animal Care & Welfare:
* Provide exceptional daily care to zoo animals, including feeding, cleaning, enrichment, training, and habitat maintenance.
* Monitor animal health and behavior, ensuring prompt reporting and intervention when issues arise.
* Maintain detailed records of animal care, training, and welfare assessments.
* Implement and oversee enrichment and operant conditioning programs to enhance animal well-being.
* Habitat & Facility Maintenance:
* Maintain clean, safe, and visually engaging animal habitats, exhibit and holding areas.
* Assist with habitat improvements, repairs, and seasonal maintenance tasks like snow removal.
* Education & Engagement:
* Teach and mentor students enrolled in the Zoo Technology Program, providing hands-on training in animal husbandry and care.
* Conduct public presentations, tours, and animal demonstrations to engage and educate guests.
* Work collaboratively with the Education Department to support programming and outreach.
* Regulatory Compliance & Safety:
* Adhere to USDA guidelines and AZA standards to ensure the highest levels of animal welfare and safety.
* Identify and report safety or maintenance concerns promptly.
* Teamwork & Collaboration:
* Role model for junior staff, interns, and volunteers, fostering a culture of excellence and learning.
* Collaborate with other departments to support zoo-wide initiatives and events.
Physical Requirements:
* Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
* Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, and humidity.
* Full-time position requiring 40 hours per week, with weekend, evening, and holiday availability.
Why Join Us?
Zoo New York, located in the picturesque Thousand Islands region, is committed to showcasing native New York species while advancing conservation and education. As part of our team, you'll contribute to a mission-driven organization dedicated to inspiring connections between wildlife and the community.
Ready to embark on this wild journey? Apply today to make a difference in the lives of animals and people alike!
Experience Required
Qualifications: Associate's degree in animal science, zoology, or a related field (Bachelor's degree preferred). A minimum of 1 year of animal husbandry experience, preferably at an AZA-accredited institution. Strong knowledge of animal behavior, safety protocols, and welfare standards. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a guest-focused approach. Experience mentoring or teaching students is a plus. Valid driver's license.
Perks
Health coverage as well as retirement options
How to Apply
How to Apply: Submit a cover letter summarizing your interests & qualifications, a resume, and three professional references to ...@zoonewyork.org. Be sure to include Zookeeper Application in the subject line.
Attn: Mark Irwin, Executive Director
Zoo New York at Thompson Park
1 Thompson Park
Watertown, NY 13601
Zoo New York at Thompson Park / SUNY Jefferson Zoo Technology
1 Thompson Park
Watertown, NY 13601