Africa Keeper

Audubon Zoo in New Orleans, LA is seeking a dynamic, outgoing, and dedicated keeper to join our Africa team. Africa keepers care for a diverse group of hoofstock and carnivore species. This position will be focused on the care of our growing hoofstock collection including white rhino, giraffe, red river hog, and various antelope. With the variety of large mammal species cared for by this team, a proven safety record with dangerous animals is required. The ideal candidate will have a strong and diverse background with operant conditioning, behavioral enrichment, and husbandry methods. In addition to zoo experience, the candidate will bring a genuine and fun attitude, adaptability, excellent public speaking skills, critical thinking skills and a willingness to be collaborative with team members to achieve interdepartmental goals. We are looking for someone who can communicate effectively and who takes pride in their work. Though not required, previous experience with firearms and willingness to serve on the zoo weapons team or hurricane team is desired. Keeper responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

· Providing highest standards of daily animal care and welfare including: animal observations, animal training and enrichment, monitoring animal health, maintaining animal areas, and minor exhibit modifications

· Maintaining accurate animal records

· Conducting animal chats/presentations

· Providing outstanding customer service

· General maintenance of grounds and public areas

· Promotes a positive team environment

· Carry out other duties as assigned by Curator and Assistant Curator

Requirements:

· Bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology, or equivalent

· At least 2 years of paid animal experience at an AZA institution is preferred

· Experience working safely with dangerous animals

· Willingness to work outdoors and in all types of weather

· A current negative TB test

· Willingness to work weekends, holidays, overtime as needed.

· A valid driver’s license

· Risk periodic exposure to fairly predictable hazards associated with wild animals and zoonotic diseases

· Ability to lift 50 pounds

· Knowledge and experience with operant conditioning

· Previous Hoofstock experience is desired.

Successful applicants must pass a pre-employment background check and drug screen before final offer of employment.

Previous experience will determine starting keeper level and salary.

Apply at: www.audubonnatureinstitute.org/careers. Applicants not meeting the minimum qualifications will not be contacted.