Zookeeper I Rover (Africa, Asia, Commissary, Ambassador Animals)

Full Job Description

The Virginia Zoo in Norfolk is seeking to hire an enthusiastic and experienced Zookeeper I – Rover. Zookeeper positions play an essential role in animal care, welfare and ensuring safe working environments at the zoo where we maintain many rare, endangered and potentially dangerous animals. This position works in a team environment that plays a critical part of maintaining good standards of animal care, presentation and customer service to nearly 500,000 visitors to the zoo each year. This position will be assigned to the Rover team and will be cross trained in our Africa, Asia, Commissary, and Ambassador Animals teams but may be required to work in any of the Animal Care areas as needed.

For over 125 years The Virginia Zoological Park has been committed to saving and protecting the world's wildlife by inspiring a passion for nature and taking conservation action at home and around the world. Come live by the beautiful Chesapeake Bay; kayak launch sites are just outside our perimeter fence. We are situated 30 minutes from the ocean front and 3 hours from the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Requirements

Essential functions include but are not limited to:

• Observes animals, checking for medical problems, changes in behavior, feeding habits, and overall well-being.
• Feeds animals as specified by curatorial and veterinary staff in accordance with nutritional and behavioral requirements.
• Cleans, disinfects, and maintains animal exhibits, enclosures, food and water dishes, pools, and other areas.
• Keeps daily records on each animal (behavioral observations, and exhibit integrity and maintenance, etc.).
• Supervises interns when required.
• Conducts animal demonstrations for zoo visitors and writes educational presentations.
• Must be able to handle and assist in the restraint and capture of animals.
• Must be able to lift heavy feed and manure receptacles and walk long distances.
• Must have knowledge of behavioral characteristics and handling procedures for assigned animals.
• Must have knowledge of animal restraint apparatus such as ropes, squeeze cages, catch poles, shifts, nets etc.
• Must be able to use tools and operate small equipment.
• Requires normal hearing and seeing capabilities and the ability to stand, bend, lift, stoop, push and pull.
• Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing and work in a team environment.
• Must work in a friendly and professional manner with staff, volunteers, colleagues, and zoo visitors.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Work requires broad knowledge in a general profession or technical field. Knowledge is normally acquired through four years of college resulting in a Bachelor's degree or equivalent, or a 2-year associate's degree from an accredited college with a dedicated zoo keeping or wildlife program.

One year of experience as a Zookeeper in an AZA accredited institution.

Additional Information

Work hours: 40 hours a week worked over a 5-workday schedule; schedule may vary. Working weekends and holidays may be required.

Work location: Virginia Zoological Park, 3500 Granby Street, Norfolk 23504