The Akron Zoo has experienced remarkable success over the last two decades with tremendous attendance growth, strong financial sustainability, and an enviable record of repeated AZA accreditation certifications. This coupled with overwhelming community support demonstrated by the repeated passing of tax levy campaigns, which provide annual funding towards the Zoo’s operating and capital needs. 

The Zoo is poised for continued growth and development having just completed new strategic, master, and conservation plans that outline several important projects including a new $25M+ African exhibit expansion which will add giraffe to the collection, a new animal hospital and increased resources directed to new conservation programs. 

With that as a canvas, the Akron Zoo is seeking a full-time, 40-hour per week Salt Water Principal Keeper with excellent communication and interpersonal skills and a mature attitude for physical work (which includes 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.). Candidates must possess a strong conservation ethic and exceptional interpersonal skills in order to provide high quality care for assigned areas. Previous aquatic experience is preferred as well as basic working knowledge of entomology, reptiles, and amphibians will be needed. 

Essential Job Functions:

• The Salt Water Principal Keeper will be responsible for the overall care and welfare of the animals and spaces assigned to them (various salt water systems including coral, jellies, warm and cold water systems).
• They will be expected to use knowledge of species natural behaviors and natural habitats to guide and be involved with evaluating husbandry practices, water quality, exhibit structure and design, environmental parameters, and filtration systems. This keeper will be involved in routine preventative maintenance and LSS repairs. Basic skills in plumbing and LSS are preferred.
• Employees are expected to follow all area servicing guidelines, correct water quality issues, schedule routine water changes, and possess strong skills in record keeping.
• Employee must be able to act as a spotter in all Dangerous Animal areas and remain current on all 2-lock-2-key policies.
• This keeper will also periodically rotate through our other Ectotherm areas such as our herpetological, entomological and fresh water aquariums.

Qualifications:

A four-year degree is strongly preferred; a minimum of an associate’s degree or equivalent is required. A minimum of six months of animal care experience at an AZA accredited facility is preferred; also, a minimum of three years of progressive work experience is strongly preferred. Must be available weekends, holidays, and for a flexible schedule and must be able to meet all other requirements of the job.

This position is responsible for accomplishment of primary animal care, and all related duties in the Zoo.

Position: Full Time (40 hours per week), Salt Water Principal Keeper

Current Starting Time: ***(Start time will change with season/programing)

Current Hours worked: *** (Hours worked will change with season/programming)

Hourly rate: Based on experience as per union contract

• Keeper I: $18.95/hour
• Keeper II: $20.95/hour
• Keeper III: $21.45/hour

Days off: Wednesdays and Thursdays

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Therefore, this employee may be required to perform other reasonably related duties as assigned by his/her immediate supervisor. The Akron Zoo reserves the right to revise and change job duties as business requirements dictate.

The Akron Zoo is a Drug-Free Workplace and an EOE.

This is a Full-time, Non-Exempt, Collective Bargaining position with benefits. This position includes working weekends, holidays and evenings. Open until filled.