Compare your current skills to what this opportunity needs—we'll show you what you already have and what could strengthen your application.
Job Description
Mission:
The mission of the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is to create compelling experiences that connect people and community with wildlife; and inspire personal responsibility for conservation of the natural world. Education. Conservation. Adventure. Community.
Position:
The Education & Interpretation Keeper is responsible for creating engaging educational experiences that connect guests to wildlife, conservation, and the mission of the zoo. This position administers onsite and offsite education programming, assists with ambassador animal training and handling, and delivers exceptional guest experiences through interactive encounters, presentations, and educational programming. Keepers report to the Education Programs Manager. The ideal candidate is energetic, professional, guest-focused, and passionate about animal welfare, conservation education, and public engagement. The job entails animal care, health, welfare, and enrichment, maintaining the exhibits, interacting with guests, accurate and detailed record keeping, and working to provide a quality visitor experience.
Overall Expectations:
To meet the goals of our mission, successful team members work to achieve the following expectations. Education Candidates must be comfortable interacting with public Candidates must be able to convey information, both written and verbal, clearly and concisely Conservation Implementation of environmentally sustainable practices Be involved in the recycling efforts of the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo Adventure Must do their part to ensure that each guest has a great experience at the Zoo, learns something new, and has fun doing it! Community Make eye contact with guests and smile at every person. Wear an identification badge. Offer assistance to guests when needed. Assume ownership of potential safety hazards (wipe-up spill, pick up trash) Teamwork Maintain a positive attitude, pleasant tone of voice (remember it is not what you say, but how you say it). Work well in stressful, high pressure situations Be effective handling problems in the workplace, including anticipating, preventing, identifying, and solving problems as necessary Utilize the power of teamwork to provide excellent service and guest experience. Know when to involve upper management Key Responsibilities of the
Keeper:
Keepers perform regular zookeeping duties and other tasks, including: Onsite and Offsite Educational Programming Daily training and handling of ambassador animals Monitoring health and behavior of all ambassador animals Delivering specific diets for ambassador animals Basic landscaping in and around exhibits Inspecting exhibits daily for safety conditions and addressing problems promptly Under the supervision of veterinary staff, administering medications as needed Implementing enrichment activities and behavioral training of animals to improve animal management and welfare Promoting visitor education and interactive experiences Actively encouraging interest in wildlife conservation and inspiring action through positive interaction with Zoo guests via educational keeper chats focused on animals, biology, conservation, and environmental issues. Keeping detailed records of animal behavior, feeding, health, etc., through ZIMS Species360. Participating in emergency drills and assisting in the capture or restraint of animals (physical or chemical) in the case of emergency Maintaining exhibits to USDA, ZAA, and facility standards Adhering to all safety and welfare protocols set forth by Management and Veterinary staff Joining and regularly participating in at least one zoo committee Other duties as needed, including non-animal related tasks and cooperation with departments outside of animal care (maintenance, retail, amusements, etc.) The above listed duties are general statements of required major duties and responsibilities performed on a regular and continuous basis. They do not exclude other duties as assigned.
Experience:
Preference will be given to applicants that have 1+ year(s) paid working experience in animal care at an accredited zoological institution. Must be comfortable with working with learners of all ages, and professional writing.
Education:
High school diploma plus A degree from a recognized college or university is required, preferably in zoology, biology, animal science, or a related field. (In lieu of a degree, years of experience may apply.)
Licensure/Certification:
Negative TB test required Must maintain a valid
Driver's License Software Requirements:
Proven competency in the application of Microsoft Office, Word, PowerPoint, and Excel computer programs is required. Must be able to utilize the ZIMS software system.
Machinery/Tools/Equipment Requirements:
Must have the ability to use mobile devices, computer, fax, scanner, phone, and copy machine. Basic carpentry, plumbing, and horticultural skills are considered an asset. Ability to work with basic hand tools required. Ability and willingness to operate power tools, lawn equipment, etc. Must be able and willing to do routine facility maintenance work.
Physical Requirements:
Physically demanding work several hours a day. Sitting or standing, bending, stooping, and per OSHA regulations: Heavy work involving lifting no more than 75 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or varying of objects weighing up to 50 pounds. Constant adequate range of motion and mobility required. Visual acuity is required to read printed instructions and safety information, and to assess animal behavior. Ability to receive and convey detailed information through oral communication (in person and via telephone/radio), at normal speaking levels with or without correction is necessary to safely carry out this position.
Environmental/Working Conditions:
Long hours are sometimes required including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Ability to do physical labor, often in tropical heat or other inclement weather is required. Ability to work under and handle stress in an appropriate manner required. Ensure that off-exhibit areas are maintained in a clean, organized, and safe fashion. Candidates must be able to work effectively with minimal supervision and approach all encounters with employees and guests in a friendly, service-oriented manner. Willingness to work irregular hours and be available based on special needs/circumstances on a 24-hour basis. Ability to compose animal and exhibit information for publication in the following: Zoo's website, publications, signs for the Zoo, etc. Exposure to disinfectants and other chemicals, zoonotic diseases, animal bites, and other animal-related injuries may occur in the normal course of duty. Candidates must assist with pest control.
Personal Attributes:
Strong interpersonal skills; ability to communicate well with a wide variety of people. High attention to detail. Commitment to continually making the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo a better place for its animals, its staff, and its guests.
Hours:
This is a 40 hour per week position. Working hours for this position are currently 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM and are not flexible. Hours may vary seasonally. All animal care staff are required to work weekdays, weekends, and holidays, as well as occasional after-hours events or animal care.
Salary and Benefits:
This position pays $15.29 per hour. Following a 60-day probationary period, health insurance is available, and vacation/PTO accumulates at a regular rate.
Background Screening:
Applicants must consent to a background check within 48 hours of being offered a position. AGCZ is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.
Pay:
$15.29 per hour
Benefits:
Dental insurance Employee discount Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance
