Float Keeper
Full time @Safari West Shortlist Email JobJob Detail
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Job ID 10328
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Industry Animal Care
Job Description
The Safari West Zoological Society is a California nonprofit public benefit corporation formed to advance Research, Education, and Conservation (REC). Nonprofit stewardship guides the long-term care of Safari West’s animals, the stewardship of the land and facilities, and the growth of conservation-based research and education. Federal 501(c)(3) status is currently pending IRS determination.
Our work centers on exceptional animal care, applied conservation science, and educational experiences grounded in real-world wildlife management. At Safari West, our veterinarians, researchers, and conservation staff are building a thoughtful, mission-driven foundation—ensuring that every initiative and every contribution supports a resilient future for wildlife and the preserve entrusted to our care.
Job description
Safari West is seeking a couple of enthusiastic and motivated animal keepers to join our team as float keepers. We are looking for dedicated keepers who have a strong work ethic with a willingness to learn. The applicant is to be a proficient communicator, have keen observational skills, maintain a positive attitude, be team oriented and be capable of functioning in high stress situations when needed.
Safari West houses a wide variety of species including hoofstock, primates, birds and carnivores. Float keepers will be trained to work on several strings and will be assigned based on the needs of the department. You can view the specific species we currently house by visiting our website at https://www.safariwest.org/. The applicant will be expected to have knowledge of, or be able to efficiently learn, the natural history and behavior of the animals under their care.
This position has numerous physical daily requirements, including, but not limited to, lifting and maneuvering weights of over 50 lbs and traversing uneven terrain; the applicant must have the ability to accomplish these demands. The applicant must be able to adhere to all safety protocols including proper lifting procedures, handling of dangerous materials, and movement around animals.
This position will have interactions with guests, interns and other staff members from various departments. The applicant will be expected to interact with others in a professional, respectful and positive manner at all times.
Job Tasks:
Job tasks will include, but are not limited to:
- Care of collection animals including general husbandry tasks
- Upkeep and maintenance of animal habitats
- Behavioral enrichment
- Animal training
- Aiding in veterinary treatment and medical procedures
- Possibly including capture, restraint and transport
- Diligent documentation of daily activities
You will be expected to follow the assigned training, enrichment, cleaning and feeding protocols put in place by management staff. You may need to perform routine maintenance on exhibits as needed and report any severe issues to your supervisor to get fixed in a timely manner.
Qualifications:
The ideal candidate will have:
- A minimum of 1 year of experience in exotic animal keeping
- A 4-year biology-related degree is preferred, but not a necessity if the applicant has comparable experience
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Willingness to work in a variety of weather conditions, including heavy rain and extreme heat, and with a varied schedule, including weekends and holidays
The applicant should be versatile, flexible, and have a willingness to work within constantly changing priorities with enthusiasm.
We require a professional appearance and demeanor as well as a valid Driver’s license and clean DMV record.
Compensation and Benefits
$21/hour
Eligible for medical, dental and vision insurance. Safari West will contribute 60% of the premium for the medical plan for employees.
5 sick days annually, in addition to PTO accrual.
Discounts available for meals, services and gift shop items at Safari West.
Opportunities to attend conservation speaker series for free.
Free friends and family tour and overnight stay annually.
Application Instructions:
Please send a cover letter, resume or CV, and 2 references to Nikki Smith at nsmith@safariwest.com.
