Keeper III

The animal keeper is responsible for the day-to-day husbandry of the zoo’s animal collection and wildlife issues, ensuring the quality standards of accredited zoological practices are maintained. The role involves high standards of maintenance and care for a diverse animal collection. Duties include animal husbandry and welfare, exhibit upkeep, guest services, diet preparation, enrichment, record keeping, and related tasks as required. Collaboration with other departments may be necessary, and adherence to all health, safety regulations, legislation, and policies is expected.

Key Responsibilities
• Prepare and distribute food as directed while observing assigned animals closely, reporting objectively on their behavior, health, and welfare to managers.
• Maintain and utilize records while following established routines and procedures as trained.
• Monitor the condition of assigned areas, animal enclosures, and equipment; report any hazards to animals, keepers, or the public.
• Clean animal enclosures, pools, and service areas, and ensure animals have access to clean potable water.
• Communicate with and assist guests during public demonstrations, fostering appreciation for the animals and enhancing the visitor experience.
• Interact courteously and professionally with zoo visitors and fellow staff.
• Train and direct interns, WEX, and volunteers.
• Aid in administering medical treatment, collecting samples as requested, and maintaining quarantines as directed by the Animal Health & Welfare team.
• Assist with animal restraint under the direction of the Animal Health & Welfare team when required.
• Implement daily enrichment and maintain animal equipment and facilities.
• Promote and participate in conservation projects and initiatives while conducting research to stay informed on animal species, taxonomy, natural history, and conservation efforts.
• Follow all GVZoo policies and procedures, comply with WCB safety regulations, and maintain a safe work environment.
• Project a professional image in uniform and when using the radio, and perform other related duties as assigned.

Accountability
This non-supervisory role shares primary responsibilities for animal husbandry with other animal keepers assigned to route.

Knowledge and Experience
The position requires a minimum of three years of keeper experience or equivalent, with a strong understanding of animal health and welfare concepts. Familiarity with multiple taxonomic groups such as carnivores, birds, hoof stock, and reptiles is essential. The candidate should demonstrate good time management, flexibility, creativity, responsibility in time usage, and proficiency with basic computer programs such as Microsoft Office. The ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, volunteers, and visitors is critical.

Education
A bachelor’s degree in zoological science, wildlife management, or a related field is required, though a Zoo Technology Diploma, Animal Health Technology Diploma, or a comparable program may also be considered in combination with work experience.

Other Information
A valid British Columbia Driver’s License is required.

Physical Demands
The role involves lifting supplies and materials up to 70 lbs, along with extended periods of sitting, standing, and kneeling. Physical participation in training sessions, presentations, meetings, and animal care is necessary.

Sensory Demands
The work environment includes exposure to loud noises from construction, mechanical equipment, and animal vocalizations, as well as strong scents from animals and chemical cleaning products.

Mental Conditions
The position may involve tight deadlines and competing priorities, which can induce stress. Emotional stress may also occur due to the level of personal attachment to animals.

Environmental Conditions
Animal keepers work outdoors, facing extreme summer and winter conditions, and may come into contact with plant and animal materials that could cause allergic reactions. The tasks listed are representative of the responsibilities for all Animal Keepers at GVZoo; additional tasks may be assigned by management and supervisors.