Elephant Keeper

This is a full-time staff position responsible for the daily animal husbandry of the Elephant Department. The scheduled shift is four days a week, 10-hour shifts, including weekends, evenings, and holidays, unless otherwise decided by the department supervisor or Curator. Works independently and in a team environment to apply the highest standards of animal care, enrichment and training. Interacts with the public to educate them about the collection and conservation concerns, providing keeper talks and encounters. Works closely with the veterinarian staff to maintain animals’ good health and well-being.

Position Goal

To provide exceptional animal care to the park’s collection while creating a memorable and fun guest experience. The keeper is the first line of defense in assuring animal and guest safety. The keeper is the expert on the well-being and needs of each of the animals in the department’s collection.

Key Responsibilities

• Performs the general daily care of the animals in assigned exhibit and holding areas. Maintains exhibits and holding areas in a clean and presentable condition at all times.

• Carefully observes the animal collection for signs of illness or injury and reports problems to the department Supervisor.  

• Works closely with the vet staff to diagnose and treat medical needs of the collection. Assists with examinations, knock downs, and procedures. Administers prescribed treatments.

• Prepares food in accordance with dietary requirements and restrictions.

• Provides enrichment as agreed to by department management.

• Trains animals for husbandry behaviors and guest demonstrations

• Abides by department or species’ protocols to assure the highest level of keeper and public safety.

• Conducts keeper talks and animal encounters as scheduled by the Guest Services Department.

• Maintains accurate and complete records as required by the department.

• Performs restraint, crating/uncrating and general transport of animals as needed.

• Participates in all safari activities and events, for example, shows and after hour fundraisers, as required by management.

• Assists in data collection for approved research projects.

• Assists department supervisor as needed.

• Responds to department emergencies to maintain guest and animal safety.

• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Previous experience working in a drive thru, or other zoo environment preferred. College education in a zoological or related field is preferred.

• Valid driver license for a minimum of three-years with a clean driving record.

• Able to endure extreme weather conditions.  

• Able to bend, stoop, crawl and walk on uneven surfaces, and lift up to 50 lbs.  

• Able to pass pre-employment substance, and annual TB tests.

• Able to work in a team and independently as needed.