Zoo Keeper Apprentice - Chattanooga Zoo

The Chattanooga Zoo is looking for an exceptional zookeeper with a passion for working with exotic animals. The ideal candidate will perform routine animal husbandry duties to maintain the care and well-being of the animals. This position is responsible for the daily care of animals in a given area, including the administration of regular food, water, and medication for individual animals. Will also be responsible for training and enrichment with all animals in the area. This position is responsible for maintaining area compliance with USDA and AZA regulations and standards. This is a seasonal part time position, lasting for 6 months working 16-24 hours a week.

Animal Care Duties will include day to day husbandry, daily log reports regarding the animals, routine maintenance of physical area and enclosures, assisting in veterinary procedures and medication distribution to animals, maintain training and enrichment programs, assist with special projects, etc. Keeper must be able to maintain area compliance with USDA and AZA regulations and standards, including record keeping, husbandry care, training, enrichment, etc. For a complete list of roles and responsibilities, please see Full Job Description below.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• Applicants seeking a degree in animal science, zoology, life science, or similar is preferred
• Prior job or internship experience in an AZA accredited institution is preferred
• Any combination of equivalent education and experience to successfully perform the essential functions of the position will be considered

• Open availability is required. Incumbent will be expected to work weekends and holidays as the animal care schedule necessitates.

The Chattanooga Zoo has adopted a smoke-free campus to serve as a leader in promoting a healthy workplace and environment.

The Chattanooga Zoo is a member of the Tennessee Drug-Free Workplace program. This position requires pre-employment screenings which will include: a background check, credit check, drug screen & tuberculin skin test.

The Friends of the Zoo, Inc (Chattanooga Zoo) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Zoo will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

The Chattanooga Zoo is a member of the Tennessee Drug Free Workplace program. A pre-employment drug test, tuberculin skin test, and a back ground check will be performed.