The Akron Zoo is seeking a Temporary Wild Animal Keeper for a six-month paid position, 40 hours per week. The goal of this position is to provide the opportunity to gain valuable husbandry experience within an AZA-accredited facility, as well as growth in depth of knowledge within specific taxa. We are seeking candidates with excellent communication and interpersonal skills and a mature attitude, as well as a strong conservation ethic, in order to provide high standards of care for assigned areas. Candidates must have the ability to perform physical work (which includes but is not limited to climbing and walking on uneven terrain; entering and wading into pools; climbing hills, stairs and ladders; wearing PPE; lifting up to 50 lbs.; and working outside in all weather conditions, etc.). 

The position may be assigned to one or two of the following units: 

• Carnivore/Small Mammal unit: will require working and progressive knowledge of animal care and welfare for small      mammal species. The unit includes AZA SSP and/or SAFE species such as Red Panda, North American River Otter, Patagonia Mara and Red Wolf. This position may also assist other keepers in large carnivore areas.
• Hoofstock/Primate unit: will require working and progressive knowledge of animal care and welfare for hoofstock and primates. The unit includes SSP species such as Speke’s Gazelle, Tufted Deer, three species of lemurs, pygmy slow loris, golden-lion tamarins and white-cheeked gibbons.
• Avian unit: will require working and progressive knowledge of animal care and welfare for avian species. The unit includes SSP species such as Chilean flamingos, Humboldt penguins, Andean condors, Snowy Owls, Hyacinth Macaws, a large waterfowl collection, and a large North American Songbird aviary that promotes the AZA’s SAFE program for North American Songbirds.
• Ectotherm unit: will require working and progressive knowledge of entomology and herpetology. Aquatic experience is preferred but not required. This position will also include working with large colonies of animals such as naked mole rats and frugivorous microbats.

A four-year degree is strongly preferred; a minimum of an Associate’s degree or equivalent is required. Must be available weekends, holidays, and for a flexible schedule and must be able to meet all other requirements of the job. 

Position open until filled. 

The Akron Zoo is an EOE and Drug Free Workplace.

COVID-19 proof of vaccination is required prior to start date. Additionally, we require a negative TB test within the last year and a DPT vaccination. This temporary keeper position pays $12.00/hour.