Float Temporary Keeper, African Savanna and Rainforest

Part-time, Temporary DescriptionNote: This is a part-time temporary position that is expected to last 12 - 16 weeks, with potential to extend to a temporary or relief position depending on the needs of the organization.Pay rate: To maintain internal equity, we have identified the pay rate for this position at the Oakland Zoo as $27.05 per hour, in alignment with Oakland Zoo’s compensation philosophy. An offer at this pay rate will be our best and final compensation offer.This position is subject to a collective bargaining agreement. The application deadline is 5 June 2026.Application ProcessApplicants must submit a resume.Candidates not meeting minimum requirements may not receive a response.Applicants selected for candidacy are required to attend an on-site working interview.Position SummaryAnimal Keepers play a vital role on the ACCR team, taking care of the physical health and psychological well-being of the animals directly under their care. The Float Animal Keeper works across animal strings and has the opportunity to care for a variety of species: lion, dromedary camel, plains zebra, klipspringer, rock hyrax, agouti, and a large number of bird species (pied crow, hamerkop, white faced whistling duck, blue bellied roller, yellow billed stork, sacred ibis, hooded vulture, superb starling, speckled mousebird, taveta, golden weaver, guira, cuckoo, blue and gold macaw, military macaw). The area the keeper is trained on will depend on their level of experience in the field.This role will cover strings in the absence of the primary Animal Keeper(s) and will assist the primary keeper with duties and special projects as needed.Essential Job DutiesUse the tools of animal observation, enrichment, training and other management methods to ensure the best possible psychological well-being of the animals in their careConduct ongoing assessment of their physical and psycho-social needsDesign and implement steps to address these needsImplement Department/Zoo priorities as well as demonstrate the initiative and expertise to regularly find ways to make improvementsGuide and support junior staff and volunteers as appropriateRepresent the Zoo in a variety of public settings including press interviews, instructional classes and casual communication with Zoo guestsPerform other related duties as required and assigned Who You AreMinimum of 6 months full time or 1040 hours experience in the care of captive wildlife in the zoo field (preferably at an AZA or GFAS facility). This can include unpaid experience.Valid driver’s license and clean driving recordWillingness to work outside normal business hours including weekends, evenings, and holidays Knowledge of the habits and hazards of working with wild, dangerous animals; willingness to work with some physical risk while observing proper safety precautionsMedical requirements: negative TB test within the last year, tetanus vaccine within the last 10 yearsBonus if you have...Code red or dangerous animal experienceKnowledge and experience in behavioral training theory and practical applicationAbility to inspire guests in casual (e.g., one on one) and formal (i.e., programs) venues to take action for conservationBachelor’s degree in zoology, biology or a related field or a specialized Associate's degree (ex: Moorpark)Work Environment – Environmental or atmospheric conditions commonly associated with the performance of the functions of this job.Work in indoor and outdoor environments in various weather conditions, sometimes in or around significant dirt and dust Physical Considerations- The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.Able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs. (i.e., feed sack) and move a minimum of 120 lbs. (i.e., hay bale)Able to walk long distances on uneven terrain in variable environmental conditions (e.g., steep, muddy, etc.)Knowledge, Skills, and Qualities– May be representative, but not all-inclusive, of those knowledge, skills and abilities commonly associated with this position.Collaboration – builds trusting relationships with both internal and external stakeholders across our organization and community-wide and approaches differences of opinion with curiosity and humility.Communication – communicates respectfully and effectively with stakeholders across identities, both verbally and in writingInclusive Culture - fosters a culture of mutual respect, transparency, collaboration and belonging which allows all employees to feel appreciated, included, and valued.Organization – strong attention to details and able to build and/or maintain efficient systemsTime management – strong capabilities with a demonstrated ability to effectively prioritize multiple commitmentsSustainability – oriented toward the mission and values of the Oakland Zoo and able to put those into practice by finding creative and resourceful ways to develop sustainable practices within your role and departmentPassion – wholeheartedly believes in, represents, and models Oakland Zoo’s mission and PRIDE values at all timesWildlife Aware - understands mission to support the conservation and welfare of animals at The Zoo, locally and globally. This is demonstrated by a willingness/passion to reflect this mission in all actions and to continue to learn how to take action for wildlifeBenefitsOakland Zoo offers part-time and seasonal employees a valuable benefits package, including an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Paid Sick Time, optional 403b Retirement Plan, and discounted Zoo Membership options. They also have access to various perks, discounts, and programs to enhance their overall experience.Salary Description $27.05/hour