Animal Care Specialist- Marine Mammal Section (Zookeeper)

About the position

The Marine Mammal Animal Care Specialist contributes to the daily operations within their assigned area, which will primarily include our new sea lion section. It may also include at times Harmony Hill, The Edge, and/or Predator Ridge. This role is responsible for providing safe and exceptional habitats, nutrition, training, behavior, and welfare for animal species at the zoo. After the required certification process, this role may also be responsible for diving the exhibit for cleaning or husbandry purposes. The Carnivore areas include California sea lions, Amur and Sumatran tigers, grizzly bear, raccoons, Geoffroy's cat, spotted hyena, African lions, and African wild dogs.

Responsibilities

• Provide innovative animal husbandry that follows AZA and USDA standards.
• Maintain proper animal enclosures/props/exhibits and Life Support Systems where appropriate.
• Capture, handle, and move animals using accepted DZCA practices to facilitate internal movement, external shipping, medical procedures, or normal routines.
• Monitor physical and behavioral aspects of the animals under assigned care.
• Implement the behavioral program of the animals under assigned care.
• Record data and prepare assigned reports/records, (i.e. daily reports, enclosure logs, facility logs, water quality logs, etc.) and other pertinent data on the collection and facilities as required.
• Work closely with other team members to achieve area goals and expectations.
• Train fellow keepers, interns, and volunteers in standard section routines.
• Cooperate and coordinate with other departments, (e.g., education, maintenance, horticulture) and outside contractors.
• Maintain professional working relationships with zoo team members.
• Actively participate in conservation and research projects as assigned.
• Participate in and support zoo-wide initiatives, committees and work groups.
• Interact with guests in both formal and informal settings, providing insight about the animals and their care.
• Provide area behind the scenes tours, Up-Close Looks, keeper talks and work special events in area of responsibility as needed.
• Participate in educational programs as assigned.
• Maintain a professional appearance, following uniform guidelines.
• Respond to zoo-wide animal related emergencies.
• Coordinate the efforts of contractors and maintenance staff when they are working in animal areas.
• Follow all DZCA safety protocols.
• Demonstrate a commitment to DZCA Sustainability Policies by adhering to all environmental, safety, & health regulations, procedures, and goals.

Requirements

• A total of 6 years' combined experience between education AND zookeeper experience in the care, feeding, and handling of a variety of exotic animals in an AZA-accredited institution.
• Degree in Zoo Animal Technology, Biology or science-based field, or animal behavior/psychology required, or in a related field.
• Zookeeper experience in the care, feeding, and handling of a variety of exotic animals in an AZA-accredited institution.
• Ability, with proper training, to work in all aspects of animal care, husbandry and training within the department in which individual is assigned.
• Ability to operate a variety of light and medium equipment.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
• Generous paid time off: vacation, sick leave, personal days, and holidays
• A Family Plus Denver Zoo Membership
• Concession and retail discounts