Zookeeper Job Description

What is a Zookeeper?

A zookeeper is commonly found working within a zoo. A zookeeper is responsible for ensuring the care of animals within the facilities and overseeing their well-being. Additionally, a zookeeper works to educate visitors about the animals as well as their diet and natural habitats. From monitoring and continuing to research various species to feeding and grooming animals, a zookeeper is an important member of the zoo staff and ensures the animals are properly cared for.

A zookeeper generally has a high school diploma or equivalent education. Many zookeepers who care for specialized or endangered species possess a bachelor's degree in the field of life science including biology or zoology. Individuals who enjoy caring for and working with animals and have patience tend to excel in the position of a zookeeper.

Zookeeper Job Description Template

Job Overview

Example Co. is one of the leading companies in our field in the area. We're proud of our 3.6 rating on Glassdoor from our employees. We are hiring a talented Zookeeper professional to join our team. If you're excited to be part of a winning team, Example Co. is a great place to grow your career. You'll be glad you applied to Example Co.

Responsibilities for Zookeeper

  • Oversee the health of animals within the zoo and monitor their eating and sleeping habits
  • Educate visitors about animals within the zoo including their preferred diets and natural habitat
  • Tend to the specialized care of various species including trimming nails, bathing coats and cleaning teeth
  • Observe animals behavior to ensure timely and prompt care should problems arise
  • Capture animals and transport them to locations throughout the zoo
  • Maintain and clean animal enclosures and ensuring a safe and secure habitat
  • Train and handle various species while considered the best practices in interacting with each animal
  • Bath and groom animals

Qualifications for Zookeeper

  • 1-3 years of experience overseeing the full-scope care of many species of animals
  • Enjoyment of manual work and time spent interacting with animals
  • Ability to work outdoors and spend many hours in a standing position
  • Detailed record keeping skills are essential in order to maintain accurate accounting for the care of animals within the zoo
  • Professional experience taking specialized care of newborn animals
  • Ability to administer topical and oral medication to animals and keep a detailed account of the time and amount administered
  • Understanding of nutrition as it pertains to animals within the zoo
  • Experience working with veterinarians or other animal health care workers to ensure the proper care and handling of animals
  • Professional experience building and maintaining zoo enclosures, including considerations for various species

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Employers: How to Write Great Job Descriptions

  • Be sure to mention requisite years of experience and educational requirements
  • Tell job seekers what's unique about your company and job
  • Ideal length is a few paragraphs or about 200 words
  • Make sure to use appropriate paragraph breaks and bullet points so it's easy on the eyes
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