Animal Care Professional
Location
Birmingham, Alabama, United States
Work type
Onsite
Employment
Full Time
Experience
1-3 years
Compensation
$18 - $18 per hour
Posted
7h ago
Summary and responsibilities
Role overview
Summary
The Animal Care Professional is responsible for the primary daily husbandry activities of a variety of native Alabama animals, including dangerous species, at the Birmingham Zoo. This role involves cleaning, monitoring animal health, implementing enrichment programs, and educating the public about the animals and the zoo's mission.
The Alabama Wilds Department at the Birmingham Zoo features native species ranging from non-dangerous to dangerous animals, including black bears, river otters, cougars, bobcats, birds, and domestic animals. The Animal Care Professional (ACP) is a full-time role responsible for daily animal husbandry while supporting the Zoo’s mission through education, conservation, and guest engagement.
Essential Functions
Demonstrate knowledge of animal biology, behavior, and care in daily routines.
Clean and maintain habitats using proper tools and chemical agents.
Safely shift, handle, and monitor animals, reporting abnormal behavior.
Ensure animals’ needs are met in varying weather conditions.
Identify and communicate medical concerns to management and veterinary staff.
Apply training techniques, including classical and operant conditioning.
Implement and document environmental enrichment programs.
Maintain accurate animal records.
Assist with animal transport using low-stress handling techniques.
Deliver public animal presentations.
Support emergency response efforts across the Zoo.
Help train new and seasonal staff.
Perform additional duties as assigned.
Safety
ACPs must follow strict safety protocols due to potential hazards, including unpredictable wildlife, zoonotic diseases, chemical exposure, and extreme weather. Proper use of personal protective equipment is required. Staff must adhere to Zoo safety policies and report injuries immediately.
Physical Demands
Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and lifting (50+ lbs).
Use of hands, tools, and equipment.
Exposure to wet, slippery, and outdoor conditions.
Extended use of protective equipment such as masks and gloves.
Qualifications
High school diploma required; degree in animal-related field preferred.
Experience or internship in a zoological setting preferred.
Strong communication, teamwork, and organizational skills.
Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Basic computer proficiency.
Valid driver’s license preferred.
First Aid/CPR certification (or willingness to obtain).
Negative TB test and compliance with health and safety protocols.
The Birmingham Zoo values diverse experiences and encourages candidates who meet most qualifications to apply.
Updated 7h ago
Candidate fit
Skills and qualifications
Additional skills
Experience
1-3 years
Certifications
How this role is positioned
Role classification
Job domains
Industries
Employment
Full Time
Contract duration
Permanent
Hiring type
Direct
Global hiring
Location specific
Offer details
Compensation and benefits
Compensation
$18 - $18 per hour
Location, schedule, and role shape
Work setup
Work conditions
Bandwidth profile
Context on the employer
Company snapshot
Company
Birmingham Zoo
Team size
Growing team
Location
Birmingham, Alabama, United States
The Birmingham Zoo is dedicated to creating a global community where all people value wildlife and wild places. As a workplace, the Zoo is guided by its core values: Passion, Excellence, Teamwork, Sustainability, and Diversity & Inclusion. Birmingham Zoo Inc. is a not-for-profit entity.
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Animal Care Professional
Birmingham, Alabama, United States • Full Time