Animal Care Professional - Elephants

Apply at: https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/0F311A9CB0E06646E60CCE5E069A1F85/jobs/457103

Birmingham Zoo Inc. (BZI) is a nonprofit, Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited Zoo and regional tourist attraction serving the greater Birmingham community and beyond. We advance wildlife conservation through responsible animal care, education, and local and global conservation efforts in support of our mission, Inspiring Passion to Conserve the Natural World.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Animal Care Professional is responsible for performing daily animal husbandry and supporting animal health and wellbeing, including monitoring behavior, maintaining habitats, preparing diets, providing enrichment, maintaining accurate records, and engaging with guests through informal and formal interactions. This role contributes to safe, consistent, and high-quality animal care operations across the assigned department.

This position works with the Birmingham Zoo’s bachelor herd of African elephants, offering the opportunity to be part of a specialized team caring for one of the Zoo’s most iconic and complex species. The role requires strong teamwork, keen observational skills, consistency, and a commitment to maintaining high standards of elephant care and safety.

All employees serve as ambassadors of the Zoo and are expected to act in a professional manner consistent with the Zoo’s mission and its core values of Passion, Excellence, Teamwork, Stewardship, and Inclusion. This expectation applies when interacting with the public or when reasonably perceived as representing the organization.

Elephant Keeper

Apply at: https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=467f6b1e-2b6d-4e48-8560-e11a85e74702&ccId=19000101_000001&lang=en_US&jobId=573032

Job Title: Elephant Keeper I, II or III (depending on experience)

Department: Mammals

Reports to: Animal Care Manager and Curatorial Staff

FLSA Status: Non-exempt

Job Status: Full-time

Job Summary: Zoo Atlanta’s Elephant Team, part of the Mammal Department, currently cares for 2.2 African elephants and meerkats.  In 2019, Zoo Atlanta opened the new African Savanna, which includes a state-of-the-art elephant facility and an expanding elephant program.  Animal keepers are responsible for animal welfare and husbandry, including training and enrichment. Additionally, animal keepers are responsible for maintenance of habitats, holdings, and public areas as assigned. The Keeper I, II, and III will report to the area managers and should be willing to serve as a possible point person in the absence of managers. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES, SKILLS, AND RESPONSIBILITES:

• Must be willing to support Zoo Atlanta’s strategic plan, mission and values, and work with all zoo staff to support these plans. 
• Maintain a high-performance level of excellent animal care.
• Participate in and support collaborative efforts pertaining to the care of the collection including training, enrichment, research, and education.
• Complete behavioral management training provided by Zoo Atlanta and utilize operant conditioning and enrichment techniques.
• Complete animal welfare training provided by Zoo Atlanta, participate in animal welfare assessments, and contribute to follow-through on animal welfare action items when necessary.
• Effectively monitor health and behavior of the animal collection and communicate changes to supervisor and veterinary staff.        Oversee administration of medications as applicable. 
• Actively support and implement area policies, procedures, and protocols to ensure the highest standards of care for the collection and the safety of staff and guests.
• Maintain the highest level of safety in the work area through implementation of safety protocols and procedures.  
• Use positive interpersonal skills to form and maintain professional relationships within the work environment.
• Maintain a high-performance level of guest interactions including scheduled on-ground talks. 
• Takes action to advance and promote department function and productively motivates others to do the same. 
• Highly proficient at communicating with supervisory staff and co-workers both written and orally.
• Write daily reports, logs, animal records, and other records as assigned and serves as a resource for effective record keeping.
• Demonstrates the ability to coordinate and supervise activities of interns and volunteers.
• Actively assists others in expanding and developing their job knowledge.
• Must be able to work independently.
• Responsible for special projects, procedures, and goals set forth by the area managers. 
• Demonstrates the ability to meet challenges with a solution-oriented approach.
• Must be dependable and reliable: be timely, be responsive, be organized, meet deadlines, take responsibility, and help other zoo staff as needed.
• Promote communication and information sharing between the zoological community.
• Employees must strive to decrease our environmental footprint to serve as models to our patrons to do the same through education and example.
• Must be able and willing to work flexible hours, weekends, and holidays.
• 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:

• Prior elephant experience and/or related exotic animal care experience is required.   

• Experience with operant conditioning and enrichment techniques is strongly preferred.

• Must have the ability to: demonstrate focus, follow written 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 to complete the functions of this position. 

• Must be able to use light power tools after suitable training.

• Keeper I

  • Prior elephant experience and/or related exotic animal care experience is required.  Paid experience at an AZA accredited facility is preferred.

•  Keeper II

  • Prior elephant experience and/or related exotic animal care experience is required.  
  • A minimum of 3 years prior related, paid animal care experience is required.  Paid experience at an AZA accredited facility is preferred.

•  Keeper III

  • Prior elephant experience and/or related exotic animal care experience is required.   
  • A minimum of 5 years prior, related, paid animal care experience is required.  Paid experience at an AZA accredited facility is greatly preferred.

EDUCATION:

• Four-year degree in biology, psychology, or related field is preferred; sufficient relevant experience will be considered.

DRIVING REQUIREMENTS:

• Must obtain and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license with a safe driving record.

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions and have the physical ability to routinely perform strenuous work.  
• After being properly trained, all keepers working with, or around dangerous animals must be able to carry and utilize OC spray.

MISC: 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 the immediate supervisor or other management. The company reserves the right to revise or change job duties as business requirements dictate. It is mutually agreed that this job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

Zoo Atlanta is an EOE and provides a Smoke-free and Drug-free Work Environment

Perks

Medical Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), 403(b) Retirement Plan, 403(b) Employer Match, Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, Tuition Assistance, Professional Development, Employee Discounts, Free Zoo Admission, Wellness Program

Salary

$18.70 To $26.06 Hourly

Elephant Keeper

Apply at: https://jobs.dayforcehcm.com/en-US/fwzoo/CANDIDATEPORTAL/jobs/3337

Summary:  
The responsibility of this position is to maintain and care for elephants and other assigned species; to assist veterinary staff as needed; and to perform a variety of activities relative to the assigned area of responsibility.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Feed and water animals in and around existing quarters; clean, sanitize, maintain and repair animal quarters as required; shovel, rake, hose, sweep, dust and mop floors
• Prepare diets for animals; clean and maintain work area and food storage containers 
• Maintain adequate records on daily activities; observe animal behavior for signs of illness, weight loss/gain or injury; report any signs of illness or injury
• Assist veterinarians in minor operations or related activity, administer prescribed medications, submit fecal samples and other duties as needed
• Assist in the training of assigned animals; guide animals through daily routines according to established training schedules and guidelines
• Carry out animal diet directives from Nutritional Services Dept; clean and maintain food storage containers
• Participate in the zoo-wide behavioral management program by implementing approved animal training and enrichment projects
• Participate in and implement approved research projects
• Respond to public inquiries in a courteous manner; resolve complaints in an efficient and timely manner; Present keeper talks to park visitors and media as required
• Assist in directing the proper restraint, crating, moving and uncrating of animals
• Properly maintain exhibits, animal facilities, equipment and life support systems (as apply) as trained for specific positions
• Understand and implement operant conditioning as it relates to the daily management of species under his/her care

Qualifications:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Must have one year of zoo keeping experience, elephant zoo keeping experience preferred
• Valid driver license with acceptable motor vehicle record to maintain zoo standards of insurability
• Proof of negative tuberculosis (TB) screening within previous six months prior to placement and annually thereafter 
 Must possess ability to:
• Work independently in the absence of immediate supervision
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships 
• Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities 

Education and/or Experience:
• High School diploma or equivalent
• Bachelor's degree in wildlife management, zoology, animal behavior, biology, ecology, psychology or related field preferred 
• Specialized training in zoology or a related field desirable but not required

Physical Demands: 
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 75 pounds.

Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
• Team oriented environment
• Ability to work irregular hours (holidays and weekends)
• Exposure to a variety of domestic and wild or potentially dangerous animals; animal odors and animal body fluids
• Exposure to all types of inclement weather conditions
• Exposure to chemicals (cleaning, water chemicals, additives, etc.)
• Ability to work special events and functions as required
• This position may be safety sensitive
• This position may work around animals susceptible to specific diseases, thus may be subject to regular tuberculosis and rabies titer testing, and the routine use of personal protective equipment such as gloves, face masks

Disclaimer
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as a complete inventory of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. 
 
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor.
 
Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an at-will basis.
 
Benefits 
This is a full-time position and offers the following benefits: 
• Medical and Prescription Drug (Employee Coverage 90% Employer Paid, Dependent Coverage 55% Employer Paid)
• Vision
• Dental
• Basic Life AD&D (100% Employer Paid)
• Short Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Long Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Supplemental Life
• Flexible Spending Account
• 401k
• Paid Time Off (Accrual Equivalent to 5 Weeks Per Year)
• PTO Rollover
• PTO Sell Back
• Free Zoo Membership
• Free Guest Passes
• Discounts on Food, Merchandise, Attractions, Admission and Programs

Animal Keeper - Elephant Department

Apply at: https://cincinnatizoo.org/about-us/job-opportunities/

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is seeking an experienced Elephant Keeper to join our Asian Elephant Program. This position plays a key role in the daily care, behavioral management, and long-term success of a multi-generational, breeding elephant herd. The successful candidate will have significant experience with protected contact management, operant conditioning, behavioral observations and problem-solving. 

Additional consideration will be given to candidates with hands-on experience managing multiple herds, bulls, introductions, and calf management. We are looking for a highly motivated keeper who excels at teamwork and open communication, and who demonstrates strong situational awareness and professionalism when working with large animals. 

Position Benefits:

• Union negotiated pay rates, with a starting hourly rate between $23.83 - $28.24 determined by years of field experience.
• 200 PTO hours accrued throughout the first year of service, 80 of which is loaded into the PTO bank upon hire
• Competitive benefit packages and retirement matching programs
• Employee Assistance Programs
• Facility culture that highlights the following core values:
  • Collaborative Relationships
  • Pride, Passion, and a Sense of Ownership
  • Positivity and Energy
  • Accountability, Mutual Trust, and Respect
  • Progressive Thinking
• Intentional professional development opportunities, for both animal care and "people” skills

Minimum Desired Qualifications:   

Preferred candidates will have: 

• Minimum 2 years professional elephant care experience in the last 10 years 
• Experience working with elephants in a protected contact management system
• Demonstrated experience with operant conditioning and positive reinforcement training 

Experience with the following is strongly preferred: 

• Elephant introductions and herd management 
• Breeding and reproductive management 
• Calf care and development 
• Elephant foot care and preventative medical training 
• Behavioral observation and welfare monitoring 
• EEHV monitoring or treatment protocols 

Additional qualifications: 

• Degree in Zoology, Biology, Animal Science, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience) 
• Strong understanding of elephant behavior, husbandry, and safety practices 
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills 
• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet CZBG employment requirements 

Essential Responsibilities 

Husbandry & Welfare 

• Provide daily husbandry care including feeding, habitat maintenance, enrichment, and behavioral observation. 
• Participate in a protected contact elephant management program following established safety protocols. 
• Monitor elephant behavior and welfare and report abnormalities to supervisors and veterinary staff. 
• Maintain clean and safe indoor and outdoor elephant facilities. 
• Support exercise, enrichment, and environmental management programs that promote natural behaviors and activity. 

Behavioral Training 

• Participate in an operant conditioning program using positive reinforcement training. 
• Train elephants to voluntarily participate in husbandry and veterinary procedures. 
• Assist with development and implementation of individual training plans. 
• Maintain consistent communication with team members regarding training progress and behavioral changes. 

Management 

• Assist in management of a multi-generational elephant herd, including monitoring social dynamics and compatibility. 
• Participate in elephant introductions and social management under the direction of supervisors. 
• Assist with breeding management and reproductive monitoring in coordination with veterinary staff. 
• Support calf rearing and maternal care management. 
• Participate in husbandry and training programs that support calf development and socialization. 
• Participate in preventative care practices including: 
  • Foot care
  • Skin care 
  • Blood collection and trunk washes 
  • Behavioral medical training 
  • Maintain accurate daily records related to husbandry, enrichment, behavior, and training. 

Team Collaboration 

• Work collaboratively with elephant team members, veterinary staff, and other animal care departments. 
• Assist in training and mentoring interns, volunteers, and seasonal staff. 
• Maintain strong team communication regarding daily operations and animal management. 

Guest Engagement 

• Participate in keeper chats, tours, and other educational programs. 
• Represent the elephant program professionally when interacting with zoo guests. 

Working Conditions:  While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; bend; climb or balance; lift, grasp; and negotiate stairs and ladders.  In addition, the employee may be exposed to Zoonosis, chemicals, and outside weather conditions; Must be able to lift and move 50 pounds without mechanical assistance; must possess a valid driver’s license (and insurable to drive a Zoo vehicle).  

Position Details:  This is a full-time (40 hours per week with benefits) Union keeper position, which is subject to the successful completion of a probationary and the deduction of union dues. This position requires weekend work with regular off-days TBD. This is a 4, 10 hr/day schedule. 

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden offers a comprehensive benefits package including affordable medical, dental & vision coverage; 401(k) plan with company match; flexible spending accounts; generous paid time off (vacation, holiday and sick leave); company-paid disability & life insurance; park discounts and free passes. 

To Apply: Please apply at Job Opportunities | Cincinnati Zoo.  Cover letter & resume should be attached to your online application

Not familiar with Cincinnati?  Check out the following:

• Cincinnati Named One of the Best Cities in the Midwest for 2026
• Cincinnati Region's Official Travel and Tourism Guide | Visit Cincy
• Is Cincinnati a good place to live? Yes, and here’s why - University of Cincinnati: Founder of Co-op, Leader in Co-op | University of Cincinnati

Perks

Full Benefits