Invertebrate Keeper

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

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

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 collaborative animal care professional to join our Invertebrate Team to care for a diverse group of terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates including butterflies, beetles, cockroaches, corals, jellies, walking sticks and more. This is a seasonal position that typically runs from May to September with the opportunity to continue through the fall.

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 the Bayer Insectarium which features a 3000 square foot free flight butterfly dome and over 60 animal exhibits.

Responsibilities include:

• Providing exemplary animal care to all species, including federally protected species raised for active reintroduction programs.

• Cleaning and maintaining habitats, service areas and public areas as assigned.
• Observing and monitoring animals for behavioral and medical needs.
• Maintaining browse gardens by weeding, pruning, and watering as needed.

• Demonstrating 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.

• Maintaining departmental records/documentation.
• Contributing to open team discussions and sharing ideas in positive and professional manner.
• Public speaking and engagement with guests, staff, and other stakeholders.
• Participating in and supporting collaborative efforts pertaining to the care of the collection including training, enrichment, conservation, research, and education.
• Aiding the Zoo’s efforts to meet and exceed AZA and USDA standards.
• Adhering to USDA/APHIS permit conditions for butterflies, moths and other regulated and non-regulated invertebrates.

• Recognizing the needs of others and treats others with respect and dignity.
• Maintaining good work habits and adheres to the employee handbook and all policies and procedures.
• Demonstrating a commitment to maintaining a work environment free from discrimination and sexual harassment and supports the Zoo’s commitment to equal employment opportunities.
• Must be dependable and reliable: be timely, responsive, and organized; meet deadlines, take responsibility, and help other zoo staff as needed.
• Employees must strive to decrease our environmental footprint to serve as models to our community to do the same through education and example.
• Responsible for special projects, procedures, and goals set forth by the area managers.
• 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.

Qualifications: 

• High school diploma or equivalent required with preference given to applicants with a four-year college degree completed or in progress in an animal-related field.
• Entomology experience desired; strong interest in invertebrates essential.
• Must have the ability to demonstrate meticulous, thorough work with small, sensitive species.
• Ability to work independently and contribute to a friendly, creative and collaborative work team.
• Communicates effectively with supervisory staff, co-workers and other departments, both written and orally.
• Must have good observation and record keeping skills regarding animal well-being.
• Must have the ability to: follow safety protocols, demonstrate focus, follow written and verbal instructions, manage time effectively, and apply critical thinking techniques.
• Demonstrate computer proficiency to complete the functions of this position.
• Must be able to use light power tools after suitable training.
• Comfortable with and experience in public speaking preferred.
• 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.

Additional Job Details:

• Must be able and willing to work flexible hours, weekends, and holidays to cover animal care and Zoo event needs.

We are seeking a team member who aligns with the values of the Saint Louis Zoo (creativity, community, openness, integrity and life-work balance). A competitive applicant for this position will support the Invertebrate department’s mission to instill an understanding and appreciation of invertebrates for the conservation of all life.

All successful candidates for this position will be required to undergo a criminal background check and a drug test. As this is a safety-sensitive role, a negative drug test result is mandatory. The drug test screens for five substances, including marijuana.

Position Closes:  May 7, 2025