ANIMAL KEEPER 1

Position: Animal Keeper 1

Department: Zoological Operations

Reports To: Supervisor of Animal Care

FLSA: Non-exempt

Review Schedule: 90 days and annually

Compensation Adjustments: if necessary

POSITION SUMMARY/Primary Objective:

Jungle Island is a beautiful, unique zoological facility placed on Watson Island off the coast of downtown Miami and Miami Beach. Jungle Island has a rich history that is soon to be built upon as the park will be reconstructed and re-launched hosting a wide variety of animal experiences in early 2023. Until then, Animal Keepers will care for animals during the development of the new park over the next year, ensuring a successful re-opening. The Animal Keeper performs all job assignments with a professional and positive attitude that reflects Jungle Islands mission and vision of connecting people, wildlife, and conservation. The Animal Keeper, under general supervision, performs a wide variety of functions in the training, handling, and care of exhibit animals. An Animal Keeper must have the ability to understand and execute plans as directed by the supervisor. This position will perform general husbandry and animal care tasks, such as cleaning, feeding, handling animals for procedures, record keeping, exhibit maintenance, and training as well as a wide variety of moderately difficult tasks in relation to operating an accredited zoological facility. The Animal Keeper should be prepared to work in a fast-paced, sometimes challenging environment. Animal Keepers should also be prepared to work in all types of weather, on weekends and holidays. The Animal Keeper will interact regularly with animals as well as park guests to provide world-class experiences that are signature to Jungle Island. This position reports to the Supervisor of Animal Care.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Perform daily cleaning of exhibits and facilities
• Animal food prep and storage
• Feed and provide any necessary husbandry for collection animals
• Work with supervisor to develop and maintain an enrichment plan for collection animals
• Must be comfortable working with reptiles, birds, and mammals without issue
• The ability to use power tools for exhibit maintenance
• Maintain trained behaviors as directed by the Supervisor
• Transport animals as necessary for exhibits or special events
• Must be comfortable handling animals in the park near guests, on stage, on camera as well as in off-site, public appearances
• Maintain area equipment to assure all is in working order
• Outgoing personality with the ability to educate and entertain guests
• Ensure public safety regarding animal interactions inside and outside of the park
• Administer prescribed medication and nutritional supplements as directed by supervisor
• Comfortable assisting medical staff as necessary in treatment of animals
• Maintain feeding, medical, and other records regarding animal care daily
• Conduct special tours or VIP meet and greets as requested by Supervisor
• Maintain an educational environment with all guests. Answer questions and provide information to them in a polite, professional manner
• May perform public relations visits at media and other outlets as necessary
• Must be willing to work nights, weekends and holidays as required

LICENSE/QUALIFICATIONS:

A college degree in any of the biological sciences or psychology is preferred. Applicants may substitute the equivalent in experience working with exotic animals where applicable. Knowledge of animal handling and husbandry practices is required. Experience in behavior modification using operant conditioning via positive reinforcement is a bonus. It is necessary that an applicants combined education and experience clearly demonstrate the knowledge and skills outlined. The ability to produce a valid Florida driver license may be required.

SKILLS/APTITUDES:

• Familiar with natural histories of a wide range of species
• Great interpersonal/customer service skills
• Ability to maintain a professional appearance and conduct themselves positively and professionally in all aspects of the job
• Experience in the care, feeding, training and safe handling of a variety of exotic animals

• Follows directions
• Keep electronic health and behavioral records as required
• Able to communicate and work effectively with others
• Be prompt
• Provide world-class guest experiences
• Monitor animal behavior and appearance and communicate any abnormalities effectively
• Operate motorized equipment and vehicles

• Be an ambassador for Jungle Island inside and outside of the park
• Capable of lifting 50lbs standing, bending, squatting, twisting, and reaching; can work on uneven terrain and move around on slippery surfaces
• Can handle frequent exposure to predictable and controllable hazards associated with close contact with a wide variety of animals (including large animals, birds, and reptiles); dust, and allergens; handle hazardous materials; work in cramped or confined spaces
• Must be able to work outside, in water, and in all weather conditions

Note:

A review of this of this description has excluded the marginal functions of the position that are incidental to the performance of fundamental job duties, all duties and requirements are essential job functions. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. associates will be required to perform any other jump related duties assigned by their supervisor. This document does not create an employment contract implied or otherwise other than an at will employment relationship.