African Safari Wildlife Park, one of the top family destinations in the Shores & Islands Ohio region, is entering a period of significant growth and investment. Guided by our mission, we are dedicated to inspiring connections between people and wildlife while fostering an appreciation for the natural world.

We’re looking for talented individuals who are passionate about animals, wildlife conservation, and providing amazing guest experiences to embark on this exciting journey with us! Whether you’re an expert in animal care, a leader in guest services, or an advocate for conservation, there’s a place for you on our team.

As the Director of Wildlife, you will oversee the strategic and operational management of the Park’s animal collection, including animal care, welfare, husbandry, regulatory compliance, and collection planning. This position is responsible for ensuring that the Park maintains the highest standards of animal care while supporting our mission of connecting people with wildlife. The Director of Wildlife will lead and develop the animal care team, oversee regulatory and accreditation requirements, coordinate animal acquisitions and transfers, and work closely with veterinary professionals and other park departments.

In addition to providing leadership to the Wildlife Department, the ideal candidate will demonstrate a willingness to assist across various departments, maintain a positive attitude, and exhibit a passion for animal welfare, conservation, and continued professional growth. Leadership, organization, adaptability, communication, and teamwork are key qualities for success in this role.

Key Responsibilities:

Animal Care and Welfare

• Manage and supervise all aspects of the Park’s animal care and husbandry programs.
• Develop, implement, and maintain animal welfare programs, including nutrition, preventative health, veterinary care, enrichment, husbandry, and habitat management.
• Ensure animals receive appropriate daily care in accordance with established husbandry practices, regulatory requirements, and industry standards.
• Collaborate with veterinary professionals and animal care staff to develop and implement preventative health and treatment plans.
• Assist with veterinary procedures, animal restraint, treatments, and other animal health needs as appropriate.
• Monitor animal behavior, condition, and welfare and ensure concerns are identified, documented, and addressed promptly.

Animal Programs and Guest Experiences

• Work closely with other park departments to develop safe, engaging, and educational animal encounters and guest experiences.
• Ensure animal programs prioritize animal welfare, employee safety, and guest safety.
• Assist in developing educational opportunities that spark an appreciation for wildlife and support the Park’s mission.
• Evaluate existing animal experiences and recommend improvements based on animal welfare, safety, operational needs, and guest experience.
• Develop and maintain long-term plans for the Park’s animal collection that align with the Park’s mission, facilities, operational capabilities, and strategic goals.

Leadership and Staff Management

• Manage, supervise, schedule, and provide directions to zookeepers and other Wildlife Department employees.
• Works closely with park managers to recruit, interview, and hire animal care staff (full time and seasonal) as needed.
• Works closely with corporate office staff to complete all company hiring documents.
• Train and mentor Wildlife Department employees on animal husbandry, safety, department procedures, regulatory requirements, and company expectations.
• Develop and coordinate staff training plans and encourage continued professional development.
• Establish daily and weekly priorities and ensure assigned animal care responsibilities and department projects are completed in a timely manner.
• Promote a positive, professional, and team-oriented work environment.

Regulatory Compliance and Accreditation

• Ensure compliance with applicable USDA regulations, ZAA accreditation standards, and other local, state, and federal requirements.
• Maintain required animal-related permits, licenses, certifications, records, and documentation.
• Coordinate and prepare for regulatory inspections and accreditation reviews.
• Conduct regular self-audits and inspections to ensure continued compliance with regulatory requirements and Park standards.
• Stay current on changes to animal welfare regulations, accreditation standards, and industry best practices.
• Develop and maintain policies and procedures related to animal care, welfare, safety, and regulatory compliance.

Animal Transfers and Acquisitions

• Oversee animal acquisitions, transfers, dispositions, and other changes to the Park’s animal collection.
• Coordinate animal transportation logistics, including transport planning, scheduling, documentation, permits, and communication with participating institutions.
• Ensure animal transfers and acquisitions are conducted in accordance with applicable regulations, Park policies, and animal welfare standards.
• Evaluate potential acquisitions and dispositions based on animal welfare, available facilities, social needs, collection planning, and the Park’s long-term goals.

Registrar and Animal Records

• Utilize Animal Care Software and other appropriate record-keeping systems to maintain accurate and complete animal records.
• Ensure animal records include appropriate information related to identification, husbandry, veterinary care, transfers, breeding, behavior, and other relevant activities.
• Maintain required regulatory and institutional documentation related to animal collection.
• Ensure animal records are completed accurately and in a timely manner by Wildlife Department employees.

Administration

• Oversee purchasing and inventory of animal feed, husbandry supplies, equipment, enrichment materials, and other department needs.
• Maintain organized department records, schedules, policies, procedures, and other administrative documentation.

General Tasks

• Respond to animal-related emergencies and urgent department needs during park operating hours and after hours when necessary.
• Work closely with all park departments to support daily operations, special events, and guest experiences.
• Assist with emergency preparedness and response activities involving animals, employees, and guests.
• Oversee and assist with animal emergency procedures, including animal escapes and other wildlife-related incidents.
• Assist with the development and enforcement of park policies and procedures related to animal care, welfare, safety, and operations.
• Assist in other departments and perform other duties and projects as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in an animal-related field such as Zoology, Wildlife Biology, Animal Science, or a related discipline, or equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
• Minimum of 6–10 years of professional experience in zoo, wildlife, exotic animal, or related animal management, including leadership or supervisory experience.
• Strong knowledge of animal husbandry, welfare, enrichment, nutrition, and preventative health practices.
• Strong knowledge of USDA requirements, ZAA accreditation standards, and other regulations applicable to zoological facilities.
• Experience managing diverse animal collections.
• Experience supervising, training, and developing animal care employees.
• Experience with animal transfers, acquisitions, transportation, and associated documentation preferred.
• Must be 18 years of age or older and pass pre-employment screening.
• Regular and dependable attendance.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record and reliable transportation.
• Use private vehicle for work-related tasks on occasion.
• Must provide a negative TB test and have a recent tetanus vaccination.
• Flexible schedule requiring availability for weekends, holidays, early mornings, evenings, and animal-related emergencies as needed.
• Physical ability to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions and perform labor-intensive tasks, including lifting and moving up to 70 pounds.
• Must be able to be on your feet for several hours.
• Ability to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull, bend, and climb stairs and ladders.
• Ability and willingness to work safely around a diverse collection of exotic and domestic animals.

Necessary Skills

• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively manage, mentor, and develop team members.
• A team player who collaborates effectively with colleagues across multiple departments.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively with employees, managers, veterinary professionals, regulatory officials, other zoological institutions, and guests.
• Strong knowledge of animal behavior, husbandry, welfare, and professional animal care practices.
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills, particularly in situations involving animal welfare and safety.
• Highly organized and capable of functioning independently.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, projects, and animal care needs simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong attention to detail with an emphasis on animal welfare, safety, regulatory compliance, and accurate record keeping.
• Proficiency with AnimalCare Software or similar animal record-keeping systems.
• Microsoft Office Literate.
• Basic Office and Organization Skills.
• Willingness to learn new skills and adapt to the Park’s unique needs.

What We Offer:

• Opportunities for further education and development.
• Team member appreciation days and parties.
• Free admission for yourself and family & friends on your days off.
• In-Park Discounts on retail and select animal encounters.
• Paid Time Off with increasing accrual rates over tenure.
• Subsidized health insurance.

Husbandry, food prep and feedings, cleanliness very important.

Are you a self‑starter who brings ideas to the table? Do you thrive in a workplace where teamwork, humor, and resilience help you navigate even the toughest days? If so, you may be an excellent fit for the Lion Habitat Ranch.

We are a non‑profit zoological facility accredited by the Zoological Association of America in Las Vegas, NV, dedicated to expanding educational programming, strengthening enrichment opportunities, and deepening our connection with the community. Over the past year, we’ve grown our training and enrichment initiatives, increased keeper led themed events and received Haas Foundation grants to support student engagement within the Clark County School District. With new events and potential expansion on the horizon, it’s an exciting time to join our team.

We currently looking to fill two positions as we are working to open up from 6 days to 7 days a week. 

Summary

This full-time position is responsible for performing basic animal husbandry tasks for a diverse range of animal species. The successful candidate will also serve as a substitute for the department manager(s) in their absence. This role will report to the Managers of the Large Animal Department as well as the Zoological Director of Southwick’s Zoo.

Duties

• Responsible for the daily care and feeding of animals within the department. This includes preparing and providing appropriate diets tailored to the specific nutritional needs of each species, ensuring that all animals receive their feed at designated times.
• Change staff schedules as needed to ensure adequate daily department staffing in the absence of the department Manager.
• Mentor’s interns and assists manager to ensure evaluations are completed at the end of each intern session.
• Mentors new staff as requested by department manager.
• Proposes training plans, habitat changes and diet plans to manager and follows through with implementation after approval.
• Supervises daily training, husbandry and enrichment changes that have been approved by the manager
• In the absence of the Large Animal Department manager, communicates and schedules vet care with the Zoo Vet regarding animal welfare, and collects observations from staff, to assist with procedures as well as administering medicine as needed
• Is actively involved with training animals in the department.
• Ensures that enrichment is appropriate and provided for all animals in the department.
• Must attend zoo wide meetings and complete all training required by Southwick’s Zoo
• Other Duties as assigned

Requirements

1. Bachelor’s degree in Zoology, Biology, Animal Science or a related field is highly preferred or at least 4 years paid experience in a related field
2. Must be at least 18 years old
3. Valid Driver’s license to drive company vehicles
4. Strong observational skills with the ability to identify signs of illness, injury or distress in animals.
5. Must be physically fit and capable of remaining on your feet for extended periods. This role involves engaging in various tasks that require stamina, including walking, standing, and performing physically demanding activities throughout the day. This includes tasks such as cleaning enclosures, conducting health checks, and providing enrichment activities.
6. Must be able to regularly lift 50 pounds. This requirement is essential for performing various tasks associated with animal care and husbandry, including moving heavy equipment, transporting feed and supplies, and managing materials necessary for maintaining animal habitats.
7. Must be able to consistently follow established safety protocols. Adhering to these protocols is essential to maintain a safe working environment for both staff and animals. Must be committed to ongoing training and education regarding safety practices, ensuring that both personal and animal welfare is always prioritized.
8. Will be exposed to allergens including, but not limited to, dust, shavings, and hay.
9. May occasionally be exposed to unpredictable animal behavior. The candidate should be prepared to employ safe handling techniques and follow established protocols to manage and mitigate any unpredictable behavior effectively.
10. Must be able to work in a variety of weather conditions including humid, wet and cold or icy conditions on a regular basis.
11. Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks and make decisions in a fast-paced, changing environment.
12. Must be competent in using a computer and able to learn various computer software programs necessary for documenting animal care, behavior, and maintaining accurate animal records. This includes inputting data regarding health assessments, feeding schedules, and enrichment activities.
13. Must be able to work independently and also as part of a team.
14. Must be able to interact professionally and positively with zoo guests.
15. Assist with zoo wide customer support and emergency procedures as needed.
16. Must be available to work weekends and holidays as required.

Pay is dependent upon experience and generally ranges between $20-$24 per hour

Please send a resume and cover letter to our curator, Dani Larson, at dani@southwickszoo.com

• General husbandry and daily care of assigned animals/birds, including preparing and distributing approved animal/birds diets.
• Inspect, clean, and maintain both exhibit and off-exhibit areas, including substrate work, perching, trimming, and vital plant care.
• Demonstrate critical thinking skills and the ability to maintain, train, and troubleshoot complex animal/birds behavior daily.
• Maintain detailed daily records on assigned animals/birds.
• Knowledge of safety SOP, safety concerns, and reporting protocols.
• Demonstrate the ability to assist other team members with their animal-related goals and challenges and support team growth.
• All work must perform the following industry best practices, safety protocols, standards, and guidelines established by San Antonio Zoo, governing agencies, and regulatory/accrediting bodies including AZA.
• Upholds all company policies as outlined in the Standard Operating Procedures, Team Member Handbook, and Code of Business Conduct.
• Consistently exhibit an attitude of service inside and outside of the Zoo, showing hospitality to all.
• Be fully committed to the mission of San Antonio Zoo to create awareness that inspires action to care for the wild world we steward and animals we protect.

• Increase the behavioral repertoire of all assigned animals.
• Continually observe and evaluate animal behavior and conditions for animals in the department and report any problems to the appropriate manager.
• Maintain detailed daily records on assigned animals, area routines, and medical treatments.

• Ability to exercise sound judgment in analyzing animal/birds behavior concerns or emergencies, and to respond with the appropriate action.
• Ability to work safely around delicate, wild, unpredictable, and potentially dangerous animals/birds.
• For the safety of our internal and external guests, you must secure animals/birds, their enclosures, and other associated structures.

• Propose and perform species-specific enrichment.
• Understanding of principles and application of operant conditioning training for advanced husbandry behaviors and public demonstrations.

• Assist veterinary staff in the treatment of the collection of animals/birds.
• Act as a liaison between vet staff, leadership, and the aviculture team.
• Assist in animal/birds procedures including, but not limited to, translocations, veterinary practices, administering daily treatment and medications, and crating.
• Participate in or assist with the capture and restraint of a variety of taxa, including dangerous species—guide fellow team members in safety practices, improved techniques, and procedures for handling or restraining animals.

• Engage with the Zoo guests, staff, VIP’s, team members, and docents.
• Promote active guest engagement through interaction, formal and informal discussions, during special events and as otherwise assigned.

• Study-specific reference materials pertinent to animal care, behavior, and natural history as assigned.
• Ability to learn and properly identify the bird species of our collection.
• Must be able to establish and maintain effective working relations with fellow employees.

• Performs other work-related duties as required and assigned.
• Assist with Aviculture Departmental Pest Control efforts to maintain health, safety, and wellbeing for animal/bird habitats and keeper areas.
• Perform light maintenance work and repairs for exhibit features and fixtures. Report major maintenance concerns to leadership.
• Safely operate equipment such as mowers, pressure washers, weed eaters, and power tools as needed.

• Associate degree or higher in wildlife management, animal science, zoology, biology, or related field preferred—May substitute schooling for additional training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Knowledge of avian behavior and biology is preferred.
• Ability to identify, handle, examine, and transfer eggs safely.
• Knowledge of incubation is preferred.
• Knowledge of chick hand rearing is preferred.
• Background of successful nesting and breeding of various bird species is preferred.
• Experience with husbandry and care of large aviaries and smaller species focused bird habitats in a zoo setting.
• Knowledge of proper plant care and maintenance preferred.
• Knowledge or ability to learn various programs such as ZIMS, TRACKS, and more.
• Ability to assist in overseeing, training, and evaluating volunteers and interns.
• Ability to speak in front of guests and groups for animal chats as well as keeper behind the scenes tours.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills preferred.
• Responsible for completing all online training courses by assigned deadlines.
• Must be 18 years of age or older with a clean driving record for vehicle operation.
• This position requires a valid Class ‘C’ Texas Driver’s License or a valid driver’s license from another state with the ability to obtain a Class “C” Texas Driver’s License within 45 days of employment. Considerations can be made as long as there is a dependable means of transportation to commute to scheduled shifts.
• Must be able to report to scheduled shifts on time and be dependable and reliable to promptly uphold their assigned schedule.
• Successful candidates must complete a pre-employment drug screening and background check.
• Must be able to work in varying climate and weather conditions (rain, snow, humidity, hot, or cold).
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule to accommodate the needs of the department.
• We enjoy year-round operation for all staff, must be available day, nights, weekends, and occasional special after-hour assignments.

Collaborate with a passionate Zoo Crew in San Antonio
Choosing where to grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it’s equally important you know that the place you choose to work at will support and guide you. With a diversity of passionate people, San Antonio Zoo is a place where you can collaborate with others securing a future for wildlife.

The Impact You’ll Make in this Role
As a Lory Landing Exhibit Interpreter in the Aviculture Department, you will perform a variety of tasks related to the handling and care of animals/birds and their environments.  As Exhibit Interpreters, you will also provide educational information along to the public through informal interpretations. Interpreters use exhibit graphics, biofacts, and live animals to deliver informative conservation messages in an interactive aviary.

As a Lory Landing Interpreter, you will have the opportunity to tap into your curiosity and collaborate with some of the most innovative and diverse people in San Antonio. Here, you will make an impact by:

Daily Care

• Inspect, clean, and maintain both exhibit and off-exhibit areas.
• Demonstrate critical thinking skills and the ability to maintain, train, and troubleshoot bird behaviors daily.
• Maintain detailed daily records on assigned birds.
• Demonstrate the ability to assist other team members with their animal-related goals and challenges.
• All work must perform the following industry best practices, safety protocols, standards, and guidelines established by San Antonio Zoo, governing agencies, and regulatory/accrediting bodies.
• Upholds all company policies as outlined in the Standard Operating Procedures, Team Member Handbook, and Code of Business Conduct.
• Consistently exhibit an attitude of service inside and outside of the Zoo, showing hospitality to all.
• Be fully committed to the mission of San Antonio Zoo to create awareness that inspires action to care for the wild world we steward and animals we protect.

Safety

• Ability to exercise sound judgment in analyzing bird behavior concerns or emergencies, and to respond with the appropriate action
• Ability to work safely around delicate, wild, unpredictable, and potentially dangerous birds.
• For the safety of our internal and external guests, you must secure birds, their enclosures, and other associated structures.

Collaboration

• Assist veterinary staff in the treatment of the collection of birds.
• Assist in bird procedures including, but not limited to, translocations, veterinary practices, and crating.

Creating Community

• Engage with staff, volunteers, and VIP programs along with Zoo guests in/around exhibits, and training demonstrations.
• Promote active guest engagement through interaction with guests during both formal and informal discussions, during events, and as otherwise assigned.

Staff Management and Development

• Must be able to establish and maintain effective working relations with fellow employees.

Other Responsibilities

• Performs other work-related duties as required and assigned.

Your Skills and Expertise
To set you up for success in this role from day one, the San Antonio Zoo recommends the following skills/qualifications:

• Basic understanding of aviculture, general husbandry, and bird anatomy.
• Knowledge of avian behavior and biology is preferred
• 1-year customer service experience
• Must be able to establish and maintain effective working relations with fellow employees.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills is preferred.
• Ability to handle, examine, and move sick, injured, or struggling birds safely and appropriately.
• Ability to handle, examine, and transfer eggs safely.
• One-year zoo keeping experience preferred.
• Successful candidates must complete a pre-employment drug screening and background check.
• Responsible for completing all online training courses by assigned deadlines.
• We enjoy year-round operation for all staff, must be available days, nights, weekends, and occasional after-hour assignments.

The San Antonio Zoo is an equal opportunity employer.  San Antonio Zoo will not discriminate against any applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.

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 Educators, located in Pauma Valley, CA, is seeking a highly motivated, experienced Exotic Animal Keeper or Lead Keeper to join our professional animal care team.  Please see the attached document for more information!

Attalla, Alabama

Compensation & Total Rewards

Compensation: $$16 an hour, non exempt, commensurate with experience and qualifications

Minimum Experience Required: Three (3) years of paid professional experience working directly with dangerous carnivores.

This is a full-time,. Overtime may be required based on operational needs and will be compensated in accordance with applicable labor laws.

Benefits

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Relocation reimbursement of up to $1,500 after one year of continuous full-time employment

Continuing education and professional development opportunities

Opportunities for advancement within the organization

Potential access to on-site or nearby housing support (subject to availability)

Employee discounts and access to facility programs

Position Summary

Tigers For Tomorrow is seeking an experienced, dependable, and safety-conscious Carnivore Keeper to join our Animal Care Team. This position is responsible for providing exceptional daily care for our collection of large carnivores, including tigers, lions, wolves, bears, hyenas, and other dangerous wildlife.

The successful candidate will possess excellent husbandry skills, strong observational abilities, and a genuine commitment to animal welfare. This individual will work closely with the Animal Management Team to maintain the highest standards of animal care, enrichment, nutrition, and safety.

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum of three (3) years of paid professional experience working directly with dangerous carnivores or other large exotic wildlife in a licensed zoo, wildlife preserve,  or similar facility.

Experience working safely under protected-contact protocols.

Strong understanding of carnivore husbandry, nutrition, enrichment, and behavior.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Ability to work weekends, holidays, and in all weather conditions.

Ability to lift at least 50 pounds.

Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

Must successfully pass a background check.

Preferred Qualifications

USDA-regulated facility experience.

ZAA or AZA experience.

Experience with operant conditioning and behavioral observation.

Experience administering medications and assisting veterinary staff.

CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Provide daily husbandry and care for all assigned carnivores.

Prepare and distribute diets according to established nutritional protocols.

Clean, disinfect, and maintain animal habitats while following strict biosecurity procedures.

Observe animals daily for changes in behavior, appetite, or health and immediately report concerns.

Assist with veterinary examinations, treatments, and medical procedures.

Implement daily enrichment activities designed to encourage natural behaviors and enhance animal welfare.

Maintain accurate records of diets, enrichment, medications, behavior, and daily observations.

Assist with habitat improvements and routine maintenance projects.

Operate safely and consistently within all protected-contact and safety protocols.

Assist with animal transfers and emergency response procedures when needed.

Represent Tigers For Tomorrow professionally during educational programs, tours, and special events.

Maintain compliance with USDA regulations, state wildlife regulations, and Tigers For Tomorrow policies.

Physical Requirements

Ability to stand, walk, bend, climb, and work outdoors for extended periods.

Ability to safely lift and carry at least 50 pounds.

Ability to work in varying weather conditions and uneven terrain.

Ability to safely operate utility vehicles, equipment, and tools used in animal care.

Relocation Assistance:Qualified candidates relocating for this position may be eligible for reimbursement of reasonable relocation expenses.

Tigers For Tomorrow will reimburse up to $1,500 in eligible relocation expenses after the successful completion of one (1) year of continuous full-time employment. Employees who voluntarily resign or are terminated before completing one year of employment will not be eligible for relocation reimbursement.

Our Mission

At Tigers For Tomorrow, we are committed to creating a bridge between humans and nature through exceptional animal wellness and environmental education. Every member of our Animal Care Team plays a vital role in providing outstanding care while inspiring guests to appreciate and protect wildlife.

Application Instructions

Please submit your résumé and cover letter to untamedmountain@gmail.com, attention Susan Steffens, Executive Director.

Only applicants with a minimum of three years of professional experience working directly with dangerous carnivores or other large exotic animals will be considered.

Equal Opportunity Employer:Tigers For Tomorrow is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Location: Tigers For Tomorrow – Untamed Mountain, Attalla, Alabama

Compensation & Total Rewards

Salary Range: $36,000 – $40,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications, 3 years experience needed

This is a full-time, exempt position

Total Rewards Package Includes:

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Potential overtime earnings during peak operational periods

Relocation reimbursement of up to $1,500 after one year of continuous full-time employment

Continuing education and professional development opportunities

Opportunities for advancement within a growing organization

Potential access to on-site or nearby housing support (subject to availability)

Employee discounts and access to facility programs

A meaningful leadership role in advancing animal welfare initiatives at one of Alabama’s leading wildlife preserves.

Position

Tigers For Tomorrow is seeking a passionate and experienced Assistant Animal Manager – Predators to join our leadership team. This role is designed for an animal care professional with at least three years of experience working with dangerous carnivores who is ready to step into a position of greater influence, responsibility, and impact.

As Assistant Animal Manager, you will partner closely with the Director of Animal Care and the Executive Director  to guide the daily operations of our predator department while helping shape the future of animal care at Untamed Mountain. This is more than a husbandry role—it is an opportunity to contribute to the development of progressive animal wellness programs, elevate enrichment standards, mentor emerging professionals, and ensure exceptional care for a diverse collection of large carnivores.

Your work will directly influence the quality of life for the animals in our care and help strengthen our mission of connecting people to wildlife through meaningful, ethical, and inspiring experiences.

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum of three (3) years of paid professional experience working directly with dangerous carnivores or other large exotic wildlife in a licensed zoo, wildlife preserve, sanctuary, or similar facility.

Demonstrated experience working safely under protected-contact protocols.

Strong knowledge of animal husbandry, nutrition, enrichment, operant conditioning, and behavioral observation.

Proven leadership potential with strong communication and organizational skills.

Ability to work weekends, holidays, and in all weather conditions.

Ability to lift 50 pounds or more and perform physically demanding work.

Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

Must successfully pass a background check.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in USDA-regulated facilities.

ZAA or AZA experience.

Previous experience supervising or mentoring animal care staff.

Veterinary treatment and medication administration experience.

Experience contributing to or implementing formal animal welfare assessment programs.

Primary Responsibilities

Support the Animal Manager in overseeing daily operations of the predator department.

Deliver exceptional husbandry for tigers, lions, wolves, bears, hyenas, and other carnivores.

Prepare and distribute diets in accordance with established nutritional plans.

Maintain clean, safe, and secure habitats while adhering to strict biosecurity protocols.

Observe and assess animal health and behavior, communicating concerns promptly.

Assist with veterinary procedures and ongoing medical care.

Play a key role in developing, implementing, and evaluating Tigers For Tomorrow’s enrichment program, ensuring enrichment promotes natural behaviors and enhances overall welfare.

Contribute to the implementation and ongoing success of the organization’s Animal Wellness Program, including behavioral monitoring, welfare assessments, enrichment tracking, and quality-of-life evaluations.

Maintain accurate and detailed records of diets, enrichment, behavior, medications, and welfare observations.

Assist with habitat improvements and exhibit maintenance projects.

Mentor and support animal care staff, fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented team environment.

Participate in emergency animal response procedures.

Represent Tigers For Tomorrow professionally during educational programs, tours, and special events.

Ensure compliance with USDA regulations, state wildlife regulations, and organizational safety standards.

Physical Requirements

Ability to stand, walk, bend, climb, and work outdoors for extended periods.

Ability to lift and carry at least 50 pounds.

Comfortable working in extreme weather conditions.

Ability to safely operate utility vehicles and animal care equipment.

Relocation Assistance

Qualified candidates relocating for this position may be eligible for reimbursement of reasonable relocation expenses.

Tigers For Tomorrow will reimburse up to $1,500 in eligible relocation expenses after the successful completion of one (1) year of continuous full-time employment. Employees who voluntarily resign or are terminated before completing one year of employment will not be eligible for relocation reimbursement.

Our Mission

Tigers For Tomorrow is dedicated to creating a bridge between humans and nature through exceptional animal wellness and environmental education. Every member of our team contributes to a larger purpose—providing outstanding care while inspiring future generations to become conservation advocates.

Application Instructions

Please submit your résumé and cover letter to untamedmountain@gmail.com, attention Susan Steffens, Executive Director.

Only applicants with a minimum of three years of professional experience working directly with dangerous exotic animals or large carnivores will be considered.

Send a resume to Untamedmountain@gmail.com

Equal Opportunity Employer

Tigers For Tomorrow is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.