Primate Unit Keeper - Great Apes

Position:Primate Unit Keeper – Jungle of the Apes core team

Organization: Saint Louis Zoo located in Saint Louis, Missouri

Directly Reports to: Primate Zoological Managers and Curator of Primates

About the Saint Louis Zoo:

The world-renowned Saint Louis Zoo is an AZA accredited institution dedicated to saving species and bringing people and wildlife together. It is 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 seeking a positive and team-oriented keeper to join the Primate Unit in the Animal Care Department. The Primate Unit is comprised of the Jungle of the Apes (gorillas, orangutans, chimpanzees) and Primate House/Primate Canopy Trails (lemurs and monkeys).  Primary placement will be in the Jungle of the Apes (JOTA), and the successful candidate will be cross-trained to work in the Primate House/Primate Canopy Trails and may work in either area for long or short periods depending on staffing needs.  JOTA has a lot of exciting animal activities planned in 2024 including integration of two young male gorillas into our bachelor group and the addition of a newborn orangutan to the group. This position operates as part of a collaborative team, and requires seasonal late night, weekend, holiday and event coverage duties. 

Responsibilities:

The Primate Unit Keeper position’s job duties and skills required include, but are not limited to:

• A positive, adaptable and flexible demeanor and able to manage a wide array of duties and responsibilities
• Collaborative work style with strong communication and teamwork skills, as well as the ability to work independently
• Exemplary animal care of animals in their charge, including providing assistance in veterinary management (medicating and exams)
• Participating in the use of behavioral conditioning to train species for husbandry and medical care

• Providing a dynamic enrichment program to create a stimulating physical and psychological environment that facilitates opportunities for diverse and natural behaviors
• Monitoring animal welfare regularly through use of welfare assessments and other methods

• Commitment to workplace safety, including adhering to all safety and husbandry protocols and SOPs
• Clean and maintain habitats, off habitat spaces, service areas and public areas including minor habitat maintenance and perching projects. Keep work areas neat and organized

• Conduct and record animal observations, maintain departmental and Zoo records as assigned including entering data into ZIMS
• Contribute to open team discussions and sharing ideas in positive and professional manner
• Public speaking and engagement with guests, staff, and other stakeholders
• Aiding the Zoo’s efforts to meet and exceed AZA and USDA standards
• Demonstrates a commitment to maintaining a work environment free from discrimination and sexual harassment and supports the Zoo’s commitment to equal employment opportunities
• All team members must be dedicated to growing and improving our Zoo’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, Accessibility and Inclusion (DEAI)
• Must be dependable and reliable: be timely, responsive and organized; meet deadlines, take responsibility, and help other Zoo staff as needed
• 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 GED required. Bachelor’s Degree in biology, environmental science, animal science, wildlife management, or similar area of study or 3+ years of experience preferred
• Paid experience at an AZA institution and previous work experience with apes is strongly preferred
• Demonstration of a high level of emotional intelligence and the ability to work as a positive team member
• Knowledge of animal behavior and good observation skills are important, a strong interest in behavior management and animal welfare is critical

• Communicates effectively with managers, co-workers and other departments, both written and orally
• Must have the ability to: follow safety protocols, demonstrate focus, follow written and verbal instructions, effectively promote organization, manage stress to perform the job effectively, remember details, manage time effectively, apply critical thinking techniques, analyze, and solve problems
• Demonstrate computer proficiency (experience with ZIMS a plus) to complete the functions of this position
• Must be able to use light power tools after suitable training

• Candidates must have the physical ability to perform required duties as assigned, including standing for long periods of time, lifting (up to 50 lbs), bending, climbing, and working in all types of weather
• A competitive candidate will actively support and embody the Saint Louis Zoo’s core values of community, creativity, openness, integrity and life-work balance; and will be passionate about providing the highest quality of life for the animals in their charge
• A working knowledge of AZA and USDA standards beneficial
• Current, valid Missouri or Illinois driver’s license or the ability to obtain one
• All successful candidates for this position will be required to submit to a criminal background check and drug test
• COVID vaccinations are required for this position

Additional Job Details:

• Days off for this position will be a consecutive two-day period between Monday-Friday.
• Must be able and willing to work flexible hours, weekends, and holidays to cover animal needs and Zoo event needs.

Position closes on January 31, 2024.