Full-Time Keeper Assistant - Elephants

Submit the following materials if interested in applying to

- Daniel Meates, Zoo Director

- Rosamond Gifford Zoo

- 1 Conservation Place

- Syracuse, NY 13204

- danmeates@ongov.net 

• resume, including education and relevant experience
• cover letter with statement of personal goals
• two references 

The Rosamond Gifford Zoo is looking for a highly motivated individual interested in a Keeper Assistant position in the Elephant Department. Prior experience in a zoological institution is desired, preferably AZA-accredited.

Qualified individuals will be expected to assist in the care of the animal collection under the supervision of full-time animal keepers and department managers. Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Husbandry - including cleaning, scrubbing/disinfecting enclosures
• Implementing approved enrichment
• Notifying full-time animal keepers and department managers of any inconsistencies in the health or behavior of animals in the zoo’s collection
• Diet preparation
• Assisting in ZIMS data entry
• Horticulture and maintenance of exhibits and grounds

Individuals applying for a position must possess the following:

• Working knowledge of animal care and feeding practices
• Working knowledge of materials, methods, and equipment used in cleaning and caring for buildings and grounds
• Ability to understand and recognize normal and abnormal animal behavior, indicators of stress, social dominance, reproductive behavior, territoriality, etc.
• Ability to interface with coworkers and zoo visitors
• Public speaking skills
• Ability to cope with the physical demands of the profession (i.e. must be able to lift 50 pounds, work outside in all seasons/weather, stand for prolonged periods of time, etc.)

Applicants must possess a valid driver license. Housing is not provided.

Elephant Caregiver

Apply at: https://elephants.com/careers-and-internships

Our Mission The Elephant Sanctuary exists to... provide a natural habitat refuge developed around the needs of Asian and African elephants where elephants are provided with lifetime care support and promote elephant welfare and conservation educate the public regarding the complex needs of elephants and the challenges facing elephants in the wild

Elephant Caregiver

ELEPHANT CAREGIVER 

Department: Elephant Care	Job Status: Full Time
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt	Reports To: Branch Manager
Work Schedule: 8 Hour Shifts, 5 Days Per  Week, Overtime as needed	Positions Supervised: None
Effective Date: 01/01/25	Last Revision Date: 5/01/2025
Prepared By: COO/HR/CEO/SMEC	Revision Requested By: HR Review

 

Providing home, herd, and whole life care for elephants 

The intent of the Elephant Care Program is to provide exceptional whole life care for The Sanctuary’s resident elephants.  We strive to expand and improve opportunities for elephants to thrive and to support elephants as they age relevant to Sanctuary resources and infrastructure.  

The Elephant Caregiver is a member of the elephant husbandry team providing quality daily care, social and herd opportunity, nutrition, and treatments using Protected Contact and Positive Reinforcement for aging African and Asian elephants housed at The Sanctuary.  Caregivers play an important role in maintaining the elephant barns and habitats to provide safe and secure housing.    

Position Objectives 

• Actively participate with The Sanctuary team supporting all aspects of daily and year-round elephant and facility care. 

• Ensure best possible wellness practices to meet the changing health and social needs of elephants as they age. Prepare for and manage end of life palliative care and ensure quality of life.    

• Manage seasonal elephant care requirements to the best of our ability. 

• Employ “Protected Contact” best practice elephant management through Positive Reinforcement.   

 

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Elephant Care 

• Safely and efficiently work directly with elephants to effectively provide daily care in barns and habitats. 

• Prepare and provide daily diets and medications in accordance with animal care protocols and related safety guidelines. 

• Observe and interpret elephant behavior and diet consumption, report significant changes.  Adapt with seasonal changes and elephant health status. 

• Develop proficiency in implementation of treatment(s), foot care, and preventative care in collaboration with the Veterinary team. 

• Promote elephant autonomy, social opportunity, and herd building dynamics. 

• Assist in the procurement, preparation and delivery of browse, and other forms of enrichment. 

• Provide husbandry training support for elephants to maintain and teach behaviors required to meet elephant program objectives. 

• Prepare for and manage geriatric and end of life elephant care circumstances.    

 

Facilities & Supplies 

• Monitor, inspect and maintain elephant and safety infrastructure (e.g., barns, fence, gates) and report breakage/failures in a timely manner to supervisor. 

• Provide daily cleaning and upkeep of elephant facilities, including barns, service areas, habitats, and other related infrastructure.  

• Implement seasonal procedural changes for barn and habitat management, as directed. 

• Ensure work areas, access, parking, and offices are cleaned and maintained daily in a safe, neat, and orderly fashion. 

• Assist in unloading and storage of feed and hay deliveries. 

• Monitor and maintain feed and husbandry supplies. Order supplies as needed and requested. 

• Perform daily basic maintenance safety checks on vehicles and equipment; report as requested. 

 

Safety 

• Understand and participate with all assigned safety training protocols for The Sanctuary and department.  

• Safely operate ATVs, vehicles and equipment on roads, trails and in habitats, per established protocols. 

• Perform elephant care tasks in accordance with existing safety guidelines; maintain constant awareness of elephants and co-worker proximity.  

• Participate in elephant escape, elephant down, and other emergency training protocols as requested. 

 

Administrative / Other 

• Maintain daily animal care and observation logs and record keeping. 

• Adhere to weekly schedules for both daily animal care and night feedings, as weather requires. 

• Actively participate in barn meetings to ensure daily goals are understood and met. 

• Monitor Ele-cam location and provide appropriate reporting. 

• Represent The Elephant Sanctuary in internal and local community and public events as required. 

• Provide written updates for internal newsletter (Ele-buzz) and other communications as needed. 

• Perform other duties as required.  

 

SUCCESS FACTORS AND EXPECTATIONS: 

• Team Oriented – Develop cooperative working relationships with other Sanctuary employees, departments, senior management.  

• Good Communicator – Communicate respectfully and effectively with others. Good verbal and written communication skills. Report internal and/or external issues and concerns to supervisor. 

• Self-Motivated – Perform the job responsibilities with minimal supervision, takes initiative without direction. Strong work ethic and professional demeanor. Ability to recognize and understand issues and problems, then resolve them in a practical manner. 

• Dependable and Reliable – Come to work and be on time. Follow procedures and maintain accurate records related to all aspects of elephant care and all areas of responsibility. 

• Training – Identify and engage in ongoing professional development.  Develop self-training plan with supervisor and play a support role to help train co-workers.   

Experience Required

3

Perks

100% paid health, dental and vision insurance to individuals, 401K, tuition reimbursement, PTO, Sick Paid Time Off

Salary

$16/hour plus benefits, PTO, Holidays

ICC Animal Supervisor

Apply at: https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=e50aac5d-42b4-47ec-9c8b-c2bec46ca8a7&ccId=19000101_000001&jobId=568612&lang=en_US&source=CC2

Purpose:

The successful candidate will be expected to perform in a proactive leadership role and regularly assist the Curator regarding animal management and staff supervision. This position is responsible for assisting with the oversight of all sections of the ICC animal department. 

Essential Job Functions:

• The successful candidate is knowledgeable of every area of the department and assists in departmental hiring, scheduling, and work assignments.  

• Supports the Curator with day-to-day supervision of keeper staff, seasonals and interns.

• Assists with training and direct work of animal department staff. 
• Assists the Curator with routine monitoring and reviewing the work performance of keeper staff in assigned area and ensure completion of tasks in a timely and effective fashion. 

• Requires excellent animal training, time management, and staff/volunteer supervision skills. 
• Directs assigned personnel and evaluates work under the guidance of the Curator.
• Promotes and maintains open channels of communication throughout the entire department including mediating minor personnel differences and works with Curator on disciplinary actions.
• Demonstrates consistent good judgment in animal welfare/management and keeper safety, considering history, current situation, potential solutions, and probable outcomes when making decisions.
• Assists in the developing of monthly departmental schedules.
• Performs duties of keeper 70% of the time and performs such other tasks and duties that are assigned and required.
• Responsible for completing all relevant documentation and keeping records up to date in the required format.
• Follows up on the progress of work orders.

Other Functions:

• May assist in zoo approved research projects and in the collection of data and the preparation of reports.
• Conducts tours, provides class instruction or assists with instruction of a class, group or individual as directed.
• Performs other related duties as required.

Performance Factors:

1. Attendance and Dependability: Employee can be relied upon to report to work on time, complete work in a timely, accurate and thorough manner and is conscientious about assignments.

1. Communication and Contact: The employee communicates effectively both verbally and in writing with colleagues, and individuals inside and outside the ICC. Exhibits a professional manner in dealing with others and works to maintain constructive working relationships.  Maintains positive visitor interaction.

Education/Experience/Knowledge/Skills:

• A bachelor’s degree in animal science and five (5) years professional practice is strongly preferred; or commensurate experience.        Requires the appropriate level of knowledge to ensure the best possible physical and psychological well-being of the animals in his/her care.

Physical Requirements:

Works outdoors in all types of weather and must be available to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.  Some local and out of town travel may be required. This position is physically demanding and requires lifting up to 75 pounds with or without assistance.  

Salary Range: $24.00 To $25.00 Hourly

Animal Care Specialist - Elephants

Apply at: https://recruiting2.ultipro.com/DEN1007DZOO/JobBoard/d1f817ca-ca1f-4c97-8900-359777b7d099/OpportunityDetail?opportunityId=8334b831-bd65-48e5-b7c0-decf07d67c21

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) is a leader in animal care, wildlife conservation, and education. We are passionate about our commitment to excellence in support of our mission of Inspiring Communities to Save Wildlife for Future Generations. 

DZCA honors our animals, staff, and guests by conducting ourselves at the highest level of integrity through our Core Actions -- Inspire Awe: Safety, Care, Connect, and by embracing our Core Values of: Welcoming, Curious, United, Courageous, and Transformative in all that we do.

The Animal Care Specialist - Elephants role will support the DZCA mission by providing safe and exceptional habitats, nutrition, training, behavior and welfare for animal species at the Zoo.  

 

The Elephant Animal Care Specialists work in a program dedicated to bull management within a habitat that is based on a rotational design concept with a high level of coordination with Animal Care Specialists-Rhino.

Our team is made up of passionate and diverse professionals dedicated to providing excellent care for our animals while creating meaningful experiences for our guests. If you're excited to contribute your skills in a collaborative and innovative environment, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is the place for you!

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Animal Care

• Help drive a growing animal training program for guest engagement and interactions.
• Provide innovative animal husbandry that follows AZA and USDA standards.
• Maintain proper animal enclosures/props/exhibits and Life Support Systems where appropriate.
• Capture, handle, and move animals using accepted DZCA practices to facilitate internal movement, external shipping, medical procedures, or normal routines.
• Monitoring of physical and behavioral aspects of the animals under assigned care.
• Record data and prepare assigned reports/records (i.e., daily reports, enclosure logs, facility logs, water quality logs, etc.) and other pertinent data on the collection and facilities as required.

Collaboration

• Work closely with other team members to achieve area goals and expectations.
• Train fellow keepers, interns, and volunteers in standard section routines.
• Cooperate and coordinate with other departments (e.g., education, maintenance, horticulture) and outside contractors.
• Maintain professional working relationships with zoo team members.
• Actively participate in conservation and research projects as assigned.
• Participate in and support zoo-wide initiatives, committees, and workgroups.

Guest Experience

• Interact with DZCA guests in both formal and informal settings, providing insight into the animals and their care.
• Provide area behind-the-scenes tours, daily guest interactions, keeper talks, and special events in areas of responsibility as needed.
• Participate in educational programs as assigned.
• Maintain a professional appearance, following uniform guidelines.

Facilities and Operations

• Respond to zoo-wide animal-related emergencies.
• Coordinate the efforts of contractors and maintenance staff when they are working in animal areas.
• Follow DZCA safety protocols.
• Demonstrate a commitment to DZCA Occupational Health, Safety, Environmental & Sustainability Policies by adhering to all environmental, safety, & health regulations, procedures, and goals.

Technical/Professional Requirements & Qualifications

A total of 6 years combined experience between education AND zookeeper experience in the care, feeding, and handling of a variety of exotic animals in an AZA-accredited institution

• Degree in Zoo Animal Technology, Biology, or a science-based field, or animal behavior/psychology required, or in a related field
• Zookeeper experience in the care, feeding, and handling of a variety of exotic animals in an AZA-accredited institution.
• Ability, with proper training, to work in all aspects of animal care, husbandry, and training within the department in which the individual is assigned.
• Work on weekends and holidays is required.
• Operate a variety of light and medium equipment.

Position Conditions

• Ability to pass a physical examination, background check, and pre-employment drug and alcohol screen.
• Clear driving record.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Negative TB Test.
• Rabies titer.

Compensation

The range for this position is $24.20 - $28.90 (hourly).

A Truly Wild Workplace with Competitive Benefits

Join our team and enjoy a wide variety of great benefits, including:

• Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
• 403(b) Retirement Account with employer match
• Generous paid time off: vacation, sick leave, personal days, and holidays
• A Family DZCA Membership with discounted tickets to special events
• Concession and retail discounts, plus free parking
• And so much more!

We encourage all qualified candidates to apply. If you're passionate about contributing to a dynamic, mission-driven organization, we want to hear from you! 

Application Process & Timelines

Resumes / Completed applications must be submitted by March 20, 2026. Review of applications will begin immediately.  DZCA reserves the right to close the position before this date.

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Animal Care Professional - Elephants

Apply at: https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/0F311A9CB0E06646E60CCE5E069A1F85/jobs/387077

The Birmingham Zoo is currently seeking applications for an Animal Care Professional in the Elephant Department. Under the direction of the Elephant Manager, the elephant team provides a high level of care to a bachelor herd of African elephants.

Primary responsibilities of this position include monitoring animal health, performing animal husbandry, maintaining cleanliness of animal and keeper areas, providing environmental and behavioral enrichment, maintaining trained elephant behaviors, preparing diets, modifying habitats, maintaining accurate records, and presenting both formally and informally for the public. The successful candidate will be a motivated self-starter with excellent communication and critical thinking skills to contribute to the dynamic and collaborative environment of the Elephant Department.

This is a full-time position working at least 40 hours per week including weekends, holidays, and late events as needed.

Zoologist - Elephants

Apply at: https://jobs.jobvite.com/careers/dallaszoo/job/o5yJzfwF?__jvst=Job%20Board&__jvsd=AZA

This is an entry-level position in animal care, following established protocols to provide outstanding
animal care for African elephants: food preparation, feeding, exhibit maintenance, pest control, and reproductive management. As part of a large team, Zoologists participate in operant conditioning and husbandry programs, provide approved environmental enrichment, work collaboratively to improve animal exhibits, and prepare and conduct educational presentations and tours for zoo guests.

 
SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

 • Provide overall daily care of assigned animals and exhibits to ensure animal health, safety, and
welfare, staff and public safety as set forth by AZA, USDA, and DZM to include:
• Observe and monitor animals’ general health and behavior, reporting any abnormal behavior to
manager and/or veterinary staff;
• Prepare and provide food for assigned animals, following written instructions, provide water and
administer medication as instructed to ensure proper nutrition and health;
• Clean animal exhibits, holding pens, food prep areas, and equipment, maintaining a high level of
sanitation, conducting pest control activities and reporting any mechanical defects that would
endanger the animal, zoo staff, and/or guests;
• Achieve the highest standards of animal welfare and wellness by providing environmental
enrichment and training sessions, using operant conditioning, as applicable;
• Participate in or assist with the capture and restraint of a variety of taxa including dangerous
species
• Prepare and update animal records, reports and surveys, assisting in research projects as necessary
to ensure thorough documentation and enhanced knowledge of animal biology;
• Perform general maintenance and repair of exhibits: painting, repairing fences and shelters, abating
erosion, planting ground cover and removing weeds;
• Provide assistance with animal transfers and/or procedures as directed;
• Interact positively and professionally with animal care and veterinary staff and volunteers;
• Actively encourage interest in wildlife through positive interaction with zoo guests via educational
presentations focused on animals, biology, conservation, and environmental issues;
• Utilize the enrichment item/device proposal form to create new enrichment ideas and items to be
added to taxa repertoires and properly record the results of enrichment items after each use;
• Collaborate with other zoo personnel as needed to meet the zoo’s mission. This can include, but is
not limited to, assisting and participating in media events, special tours, and public relations projects;
• Participate in and support zoo-wide initiatives, committees, and work groups;
• Understand and support Dallas Zoo’s Strategic and Master Plans and departmental collection plans;
• Study specific reference materials pertinent to animal care, behavior and natural history as assigned;
• Follow all safety protocols and understand the animal keeper's role in emergency procedures,
responding to emergencies as required;
 
QUALIFICATIONS

• An Associate’s degree in an animal science, biology, or related science field plus one year of paid animal care experience is required; A Bachelor’s degree in an animal science, biology, or related science field is preferred;
• Must have knowledge of animal care and basic husbandry skills, and at least one year preferred of
exotic animal care experience at an AZA-accredited facility
• Must be a flexible, efficient, self-motivated team player, and solution-oriented: finding creative
solutions to complex challenges;
• Must have basic knowledge of research techniques and practices, with solid observation skills;
• Must be capable of practicing, or willing to learn, safe methods of capture and restraint for a variety
of taxa (which may include potentially dangerous species);
• Must be able to establish and maintain an effective rapport with all levels of management, employees, interns, volunteers, and zoo guests;
• Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, following instructions and
documenting animal care activities appropriately;
• Ability to represent the Zoo in a professional manner at all times;
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in emergency situations and to respond with appropriate action;
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationship with management, other employees & zoo guests;
• Must be able to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull bend, climb stairs
and ladders and carry up to 50 lbs;
• Must be able to work holidays and weekends, both regular and irregular hours as required;
• Regular, reliable and punctual attendance is an essential function of this position;
• Must be able to actively work outdoors in hot or inclement weather;
• Successful candidates must complete pre-employment drug screening, background check and TB
test;
• Must have a valid driver’s license to operate zoo vehicles and reliable transportation.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by personnel assigned to this job and is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all duties to be assigned.