Hoofstock/Carnivore Keeper

Full time @Southwick’s Zoo

Apply Before : August 29, 2026
Salary: $20.00 - $24.00 / Hourly
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Job Detail

Job ID 13172
Experience 4 Years
Industry Animal Care
Qualifications Degree Bachelor

Job Description

Animal Care Lead – Hoofstock and Carnivore

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

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
Must be at least 18 years old
Valid Driver’s license to drive company vehicles
Strong observational skills with the ability to identify signs of illness, injury or distress in animals.
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.
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.
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.
Will be exposed to allergens including, but not limited to, dust, shavings, and hay.
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.
Must be able to work in a variety of weather conditions including humid, wet and cold or icy conditions on a regular basis.
Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks and make decisions in a fast-paced, changing environment.
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.
Must be able to work independently and also as part of a team.
Must be able to interact professionally and positively with zoo guests.
Assist with zoo wide customer support and emergency procedures as needed.
Must be available to work weekends and holidays as required.