Animal Keeper

Animal Keeper - Department of Parks & Recreation

Under direction, feeds and cares for mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians in accordance with established programs; carries out regular maintenance program of cages, pens, paddocks, and other areas; provides daily enrichment to animal collection in accordance with AZA and USDA guidelines. Does related work as required:

Specific Tasks & Responsibilities Include:

• Carries out a regular scheduled program designed to ensure prompt feeding, cleaning and care to the animal collection assigned.
• Effectively monitors health and behavior of the animal collection and communicate changes to supervisor and veterinary staff.
• Carries out regular daily maintenance program involved in keeping cages, pens, paddocks, and animal areas in good repair and in a manner that insures maximum cleanliness and neatness.
• Performs minor repairs to animal displays and exhibits.
• Carefully enforces established zoo regulations relating to protection of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians in a manner that protects them and the safety of the public.
• Maintain positive relationships within the work environment. Positively promotes and fosters work that improves department function and productivity.
• Works to meet and exceed the AZA guidelines for animal welfare. Supports the

Bergen County’s Zoo vision and mission statement.

• Actively participate to improve job knowledge and professional development through conferences, seminars, and workshops.

Schedule:

• 40 hours per week. Willing to work flexible hours, weekends, and holidays

Education & Experience:

• A.S or B.S. degree in biology, life sciences or related field
• Sufficient relevant experience will be considered
• Ability to keep necessary records and reports and to learn quickly from oral and written instructions
• Ability to use various electronic software used by facility
• Ability to interact or communicate in English sufficiently the duties of this position.

Skills and Special Requirements:

• Valid Driver’s License in NJ
• Must be able to work outdoors in all weather and have physical ability to perform strenuous work

The County of Bergen is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Evening shift
• Holidays
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Education:

• Associate (Required)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Shift availability:

• Night Shift (Required)
• Day Shift (Required)

Work Location: In person