DUTIES: Under the supervision of the Animal Curator, the Animal Keeper is responsible for:

• Care for the wild and domestic animals in the Zoo’s collection.
• Clean and disinfect displays and off-site areas in a timely and efficient manner.
• Clean and disinfect dishes, pans, and utensils used in diet preparation and animal care. Participate in all aspects of kitchen clean-up.
• Keep work areas and public areas neat and orderly.
• Prepare and distribute diets, assist in the formulation of diets, and the procurement of animal needs.
• Assist in the handling of, administration of medication to, assist in surgery, and record keeping of medications to assigned string.
• Aide in the acquisition and distribution of consumable products necessary to maintain a wild animal population. Submit requests for animal supplies, expenditures, and bills to Animal Curator.
• Maintain accurate records and paperwork necessary to maintain a captive animal population.
• Participate in preventative medicine/procedures and report animal health concerns to the Animal Curator or Zoo Director; serve as liaison with veterinarian as needed.
• Recommend procedures for animal care, and research, and recommend animals for acquisition/disposition. Meet monthly in animal collection meetings as well as regularly with Animal Curator to maintain information flow on the animal collection. Set goals and objectives based on review.
• Participate in behavioral enhancement for the animal collection.
• Report all malfunctions of heating, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical equipment and submit maintenance needs to the Animal Curator and maintenance staff.
• Report emergencies and unusual situations to appropriate personnel.
• Perform routine maintenance tasks as needed. Assist in exhibit repair and construction. Ensure exhibits are properly maintained for the species displayed and the general public.
• Assist in programming and promotions of the zoo including working with volunteers. May be required to provide programming on an ongoing basis.
• Wear the proper designated uniform during regular zoo hours.
• Assume responsibility for knowing, being trained, and following all safety procedures that pertain to the duties performed.
• Follow all safety procedures that pertain to the duties performed. Support all aspects of the Park District’s safety program.
• Perform other duties assigned.

Education: Four year college degree in related field. Although a degree is preferred, extensive experience in a like position with similar duties and responsibilities may be substituted for all or part of the educational requirement.

Experience: One year of full-time experience in the care and maintenance of wild and/or domestic animals required. A combination of education and experience may substitute.

Knowledge and Ability:

• Basic knowledge of characteristics, diet, habits and well-being of wild and domestic animals.
• Aptitude for on-the-job training and ability to follow written and oral instructions.
• Ability to work harmoniously with the public and fellow employees in a positive and cooperative manner.
• Must be dependable, courteous and able to work with people of all ages.
• Ability to be professional, respectful, accountable, innovative, to follow safety procedures, and be equitable to both internal and external customers.
• Personal: Must demonstrate reliability, initiative, tact and resourcefulness.
• Requires Class “D” driver’s license.

Perks:

• Part-time employees enjoy discounted recreation classes and free admission to select Park District facilities.

The Peoria Park District hires without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, pregnancy, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service, protected veteran status or on the basis of any characteristic protected by law.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.