Primate Conservation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens is seeking applications for the position of Animal Care Professional- Swing Keeper reporting to the Animal Operations Manager. This is an exciting opportunity to join a respected and growing AZA accredited institution.

The Swing Keeper position will be trained to work in all areas of the animal department to include the Animal Ambassador, Carnivore, Commissary, Ectotherm, Mixed Mammals and Primate departments. This position may rotate through the various animal areas on an irregular schedule. The swing keeper will provide daily husbandry, enrichment, and training to the animal collection. They will participate in veterinary procedures as requested and will participate in guest engagement through Keeper Talks, Zoo Camp or other scheduled events. This position requires a high degree of organization, flexibility within the workday, and excellent communication skills.

Essential Duties

• Perform daily animal care professional duties including but not limited to the following:

• Perform animal husbandry and care of assigned animals to maximize animal wellbeing.
• Observe animal behavior to monitor health and welfare.
• Participate in animal training for specific behaviors needed for husbandry, management, and veterinary procedures.
• Participate in providing animal enrichment, including generating and implementing new ideas through the appropriate approval process.
• Perform animal handling and restraint as needed.

• The ability to work outdoors in weather conditions typical of South Florida climate.

• Assist in the mentorship and training of Zoo staff, interns, and volunteers.

• Respond to and assist in the resolution of Zoo emergencies.

• Observe safety policies throughout the Zoo as they pertain to the use of equipment, materials, chemicals, and vehicles.

• Engage with guests in a welcoming, courteous manner and address the public during keeper talks, shows, or other animal encounters.

• Assist with special events and requests from marketing and development as needed.

• Adhere to regulatory standards (USDA, FWC, AZA) and recognize and report concerns to the appropriate supervisor.

• Provide support for education and conservation programming as needed.

• Other duties as assigned.

Additional Skillset

• Knowledge of animal husbandry, animal welfare, and operant conditioning

• Ability to safely use standard food prep equipment including knives, blenders, digital and non-digital scales, etc.

• Ability to or willingness to learn how to ride a bicycle.

• Ability to drive a vehicle and operate small machinery.

• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively via speaking and writing.

• Ability to work independently or with a team.

• Ability to work flexible hours including weekdays, holidays, and special events.

• Ability to learn Species 360/ZIMS data entry skills.

• Possession of strong organizational skills

• Possession of strong interpersonal skills

Qualifications

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in an animal-related field is preferred; equivalent life experience may be substituted.

• Experience in an AZA zoological facility is preferred.

Physical Requirements

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the following have been identified as physical requirements of the job:

• The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 70 pounds, stand for long periods of time, and ride Zoo bicycles. The employee is frequently required to use hands and fingers to handle, reach, feel and manipulate objects, tools, or controls. The employee is frequently required to sit, walk distances, climb, balance, stoop, bend, kneel, and crouch.

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear.

SPECIAL INFORMATION

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance

Naples Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The ADA requires Naples Zoo to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with the Human Resources Office.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Naples Zoo is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive company culture, and our team does not discriminate against candidates and employees because of their disability, sex, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, veteran status, or any other protected status under the law.

EMPLOYEE ELIGIBLE BENEFITS & EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS

Medical, Dental & Vision Health Coverage

Company paid Life Insurance policy of $25,000

Supplemental insurance plans available (disability, GAP, accident, critical care)

403B Retirement and Investment Opportunities

Accrued Paid Time Off

Tuition Reimbursement Program available

Holiday Premium Pay

Employee Referral Bonuses

Complimentary Zoo admission for employees and/or their families after 90 days of employment

Complementary and discounted admissions to 75+ Florida theme parks for employee and/or their families

30% Employee Discount at Naples Zoo Gift Shop & Zoo cafes