***Recruitment will begin July 31, 2014***

The City of El Paso is seeking a highly motivated and innovative individual to serve in the position of Zoo Keeper. This position will feed and care for exotic animals in the different areas.  Depending on the vacancy, candidates may be assigned to an area that contains: elephants, large carnivores, hoofstock, primates, and birds.  As part of the El Paso Zoo Team, you will be required to work a schedule across a 7-day week, including weekends and holidays, and perform highly physical work on a daily basis.

TYPICAL DUTIES:
Feed and care for exotic zoo animals and clean and maintain animal enclosures. Involves: Prepare regular and special diets to feed animals. Feed and water animals. Clean, disinfect and maintain cages, enclosures and exhibit areas as needed. Maintain safety of animals. Monitor animal health and well-being. Report animal illness or injury to appropriate staff. Assist veterinary staff as needed with administering medications, providing treatment and restraining. Provide care for animals such as by trimming beaks, nails and wing feathers, providing moisture for turtles, reptiles and birds, shearing sheep, weighing animals and other services as needed. Record animal information such as temperature and consumption to charts. 
 
Assist with behavior modification and enrichment programs for animals. Involves: Utilize system of rewards to condition animal to do things on command. Provide animal with interactive items and activities to relieve stress and boredom. Provide exercise for animals as needed. 
 
Provide assistance to other zoo staff and to the public. Involves: Identify maintenance problems and resolve or report as necessary. Assist with grounds and landscaping maintenance and construction. Test water quality in aquatic exhibits. Answer questions from other staff and the public regarding zoo animals, exhibits and related. 
