Job Description

The Virginia Zoo in Norfolk is seeking to hire an enthusiastic and experienced Zookeeper – Africa. Zookeeper positions play an essential role in animal care, welfare and ensuring safe working environments at the zoo where we maintain many rare, endangered and potentially dangerous animals. This position works in a team environment that plays a critical part in maintaining good standards of animal care, presentation and customer service to the nearly 500,000 visitors to the zoo each year. This position will be assigned to primarily work on the Africa team with animals housed within the Africa areas but may be required to work in any of the Animal Services areas as needed. Essential Functions Observes animals, checking for medical problems, changes in behavior, feeding habits, and overall well-being. Feeds animals as specified by curatorial and veterinary staff in accordance with nutritional and behavioral requirements. Cleans, disinfects, and maintains animal exhibits, enclosures, food and water dishes, pools, and other areas. Keeps daily records on each animal (behavioral observations, and exhibit integrity and maintenance, etc.). Supervises interns when required. Conducts animal demonstrations for zoo visitors and writes educational presentations. Must be able to handle and assist in the restraint and capture of animals. Must be able to lift heavy feed and manure receptacles and walk long distances. Must have knowledge of behavioral characteristics and handling procedures for assigned animals. Must have knowledge of animal restraint apparatus such as ropes, squeeze cages, catch poles, shifts, nets, etc. Must be able to use tools and operate small equipment. Requires normal hearing and seeing capabilities and the ability to stand, bend, lift, stoop, push and pull. Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing and work in a team environment. Must work in a friendly and professional manner with staff, volunteers, colleagues, and zoo visitors. Other duties as assigned. Experience Required Education/ExperienceWork requires broad knowledge in a general profession or technical field. Knowledge is normally acquired through four years of college resulting in a bachelor's degree or equivalent from an accredited college with a dedicated zoo keeping or wildlife program. One year of experience as an Animal Caretaker in an AZA accredited institution. Further Comments Work Location: Virginia Zoological Park, 3500 Granby St., Norfolk, VA 23504. Work Hours: 40 hours a week worked over a 5-workday schedule; schedule may vary. Working weekends and holidays may be required. Department Hiring Salary Range: $41,231 - $68,887. How to Apply Please use the following link to apply or go to the City of Norfolk website and search for the job in the employment section. #J-18808-Ljbffr Association Of Zoos & Aquariums

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