Filled / Expired
Austin Zoo
Email
Email Address Hidden
Location
Austin, TX
Job Type
Full Time, Year round
Salary
$15.00/hr
Posted
July 13, 2026
Housing Offered
No
Experience
0-2 yrs
SUMMARY:
The position requires a dedicated individual who will take direction from the Curator and/or Director in carrying out daily animal husbandry, exhibit and holding area management and keeper chats/encounters as scheduled. Apprentice Keepers will be trained through Hoofstock, Bird, Reptile/Amphibian, and Diet/Night round areas of the zoo. Candidate would be eligible to train through Small Carnivores, Primates and Large Cats once they reach a set experience level. Starting pay $15.00/hr. Eligible for periodic performance-based wage increases.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- All aspects of Animal Husbandry including but not limited to cleaning, feeding, medicating, enrichment, training, handling/restraint, etc.
- Keeper chats/encounters as scheduled. Public media as requested by Curator/Director.
- Maintains records pertaining to feeding, behavioral observations, training activities, medical procedures, etc.
- Cooperates with Veterinary staff for animal health issues, treatments, veterinary procedures, transfers and crating.
- Reports facility needs to Curator/Director in a timely way.
- Adherence to area specific standard operating procedures (SOPs) including safety.
- Must be able to maintain discretion with confidential information.
- Other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s Degree in biology, wildlife science, or a related field required with specific knowledge of animal husbandry and behavioral conditioning.
- A valid driver’s license with a good driving record.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule which will include weekends and/or evenings and holidays.
- Ability to respond to emergencies on an on-call basis.
- Knowledge of Word Processing and Spreadsheet software.
- Must have good written and oral communication skills and be a cooperative team player.
- Ability to perform all husbandry tasks for all species within the facility as trained.
- Previous internships/seasonal positions working with exotic animals preferred.
PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- In good health and capable of performing strenuous and/or heavy physical labor.
- No history of allergies related to animals or plants, which might interfere with ability to work.
- Ability to remain on feet for long periods of time, climb stairs, pull carts, bend and stoop.
- Ability to work in all weather conditions.
- No impairment of sight, smell, hearing, touch, balance and agility of movement which might interfere with ability to work.
- Physical strength, including the ability to lift up to 50 pounds and be able to move up to 100 pounds.
- Immuno-competence (possible exposure to zoonotic infections/disease).
- Proof of negative TB screening prior to placement and annually thereafter required.
- Proof of COVID 19 vaccine.
- Proof of rabies vaccination preferred.
Austin Zoo Employee Benefits:
- Starting hourly wage based on experience. Potential for performance-based increases.
- Authorized Overtime Pay as needed
- Health Care Stipend
- Uniform Stipend
- Paid Vacation and Sick Leave after 90-day introductory employment period
- Paid ZAA Membership Yearly Dues
- 40% Employee discount at Austin Zoo Gift Shop
- Free daily general admission to Austin Zoo for immediate family
- Free Animal (Capybara or Tortoise) Encounter Annually (subject to availability)
How to Apply:
Submit a cover letter and resume to our email address. Please no phone calls or drop-ins. Selected candidates will be contacted for an initial interview.
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Texas Zoo + Aquarium Jobs, USA Zoo Jobs
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All Jobs, Entry Level Jobs at Zoo + Aquariums, Internships / Apprentice Jobs at Zoo + Aquariums, Zookeeper / Animal Care Jobs