The Houston Zoo seeks a motivated individual to serve as our Night Zookeeper. The ideal candidate will have working experience with responding to animal welfare issues and will perform keeper duties as needed. In addition, this exciting position would require an individual that is comfortable participating with education and conservation programs.
Our Mission: Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife.
Our Vision: Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Observes and evaluates animal welfare, as well as containment, security, and environment of Zoo animals; communicates observations orally and on written reports
- Participates in environmental and behavioral enrichment; Improves the quality of life of the animal population by providing environmental and behavioral enrichment opportunities
- Participates in the training of selected animals through operant conditioning for purposes of gaining cooperation for veterinary treatment
- Provides direct animal care as needed for health and well-being of animals within assigned areas
- In collaboration with the Curator and Veterinary staff, administers medication as directed
- Respond to emergencies relating to matters of animal welfare and safety
- Handles and proficient in the use of firearms and capture equipment in the event of an animal emergency.
- Maintains qualified firearms status
- Bachelor's degree (B. A.) from four-year college or university; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- One year of experience in animal care at an AZA or equivalent facility, gained through employment, internships, or volunteer experience.
- Experience with species in captivity, in a conservation setting.
- Experience with basic carpentry and mechanical skills.
- Must have or be able to obtain a valid Texas driver’s license.
The Houston Zoo is made up of many moving parts with over 6,000 permanent residents (our animals) for whom we provide housing, meals, medical care and, yes, even education! There are over 2 million guests each year who come to experience our incredible variety of animals and ecosystems, as well as attend special private and public events and entertainment. Our dedicated staff works around the clock to ensure that the Zoo is always running smoothly for the safety and well-being of our residents and guests. We strive to ensure the protection of all the counterparts of the animals we have at the Zoo and in the wild.
Join the Houston Zoo and become a part of an organization that is focused on the preservation of wildlife and their habitats by combining conservation with education and promotion of sustainable livelihoods in the local communities. Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Disclaimer The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as a complete inventory of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor. Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an at-will basis. Benefits This is a full-time position and offers the following benefits: • Medical and Prescription Drug • Vision • Dental • Basic Life AD&D (100% Employer Paid) • Short Term Disability (100% Employer Paid) • Long Term Disability (100% Employer Paid) • Supplemental Life • Flexible Spending Account / Health Savings Account • 401k • Free Zoo Membership • Free Guest Passes • Discounts on Food, Merchandise, Attractions, Admission and Programs Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.