Keeper

Reports to : Director & Director of Programs at the Trevor Zoo

Status : Non-exempt; full-time (flexibility to work weekends, holidays, and evenings as needed).

JOB SUMMARY :

The Trevor Zoo at Millbrook School is the only USDA and AZA accredited zoological facility in the United States that is located and owned by an independent high school.

Education is deeply rooted in the Trevor Zoo history and mission. Millbrook School’s Trevor Zoo inspires all to live responsibly by educating it’s students and visitors about conservation, wildlife, and the natural world.

The Husbandry Keeper is responsible for the daily care, feeding, and enrichment of a diverse collection of animals. This role ensures the physical and mental well-being of the animals, maintains clean and safe enclosures, and engages with the public to educate them about wildlife conservation.

Additionally, the Husbandry Keeper serves as a mentor and educator to students and interns, fostering their development in the field of animal care and conservation.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES :

Animal Care :

Feed and provide fresh water to animals according to dietary requirements.

Administer medications and supplements as directed by veterinary team.

Monitor and document animal health and behavior, reporting any concerns to supervisors or veterinarians.

Participate in welfare evaluations on a regular basis.

Assist with veterinary procedures and health checks as needed.

Assist with positive training and management as instructed by the animal care team.

Enclosure Maintenance :

Clean and disinfect animal enclosures, ensuring they are safe and secure.

Maintain habitat enrichment items and create new enrichment activities to stimulate natural behaviors under the direction of supervisors.

Conduct regular inspections of enclosures to identify and repair any potential hazards.

Public Interaction and Education :

Provide informative and engaging talks and demonstrations to zoo visitors.

Answer questions from the public and promote awareness of conservation efforts.

Assist with educational presentations, programs, tours, and special events.

Record Keeping :

Maintain accurate records of animal diets, health, behavior, and breeding.

Prepare daily, weekly, and monthly reports on animal care activities.

Team Collaboration :

Work collaboratively with other zookeepers, veterinarians, and support staff.

Participate in team meetings and training sessions.

Assist in training new staff and volunteers.

Mentoring and Educating :

Mentor students, interns, and volunteers, providing guidance and support in animal care practices.

Develop and deliver training programs and workshops for students and interns.

Evaluate the performance of students and interns, offering constructive feedback and support.

Foster a learning environment that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and professional growth.

Collaborate with Millbrook School and other educational institutions to facilitate internship programs and provide meaningful learning experiences.

EDUCATION & QUALIFICATIONS :

Bachelor’s Degree in zoology, biology, animal science, or a related field preferred.

Previous experience working with animals in a zoo, sanctuary, or similar environment is highly desirable.

Experience in mentoring, teaching, or training is highly desirable.

Strong observational skills to monitor animal health and behavior.

Excellent communication skills for interacting with the public, team members, and students.

Basic understanding of animal husbandry, nutrition, and enrichment.

Patience and leadership abilities to effectively mentor and educate students and interns.

SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Must be able to read, write, speak, and understand the English language.

Must possess the ability to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action.

Must possess the ability to deal tactfully with personnel, students, and visitors.

Ability to work harmoniously with other personnel.

Ability to minimize waste of supplies, misuse of equipment, etc.

Must possess the ability to seek out new methods & be willing to incorporate them into existing practices.

Be able to follow written and oral instructions.

Is proficient in composition of written communication.

Must have patience, tact, cheerful disposition and enthusiasm.

Must be able to work in person, at the zoo.

Must have a clean and valid driver’s license.

Physical and sensory requirements

With or Without the Aid of Mechanical Devices)

Must be physically able to operate a motor vehicle and other equipment.

Must be able to speak and write the English language in an understandable manner.

Must be able to operate hand tools and power tools.

Must have physical strength for lifting or moving up to 50 pounds.

Must be able to walk, stand, reach, bend, stoop, kneel, and crouch.

Must be able to lift (up to 50 pounds), push, pull, and move equipment, supplies, etc., without restrictions.

Must be able to work in and around animal spaces (all species) and with hay and other allergens regularly.

Must be able to move intermittently throughout the workday.

Must be able to speak and write the English language in an understandable manner.

Must be able to cope with the mental and emotional stress of the position.

Must possess sight / hearing senses or use prosthetics that will enable these senses to function adequately so that the requirements of this position can be fully met.

WORKING CONDITIONS :

Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

Potential exposure to zoonotic diseases and handling of dangerous animals.

Perks

Great benefits, lunch included during the school year, great team atmosphere

Salary

Last updated : 2024-06-21