Float Keeper B
Location
Oakland, California, United States
Work type
Onsite
Employment
Full Time
Experience
2+ years
Compensation
$28 - $28 per hour
Posted
7h ago
Summary and responsibilities
Role overview
Summary
The Float Animal Keeper at Oakland Zoo is responsible for the physical health and psychological well-being of a variety of animal species, covering different animal strings in the absence of primary keepers. This role involves animal observation, enrichment, training, and implementing care strategies, while also guiding junior staff and representing the Zoo to the public.
Application Deadline: August 27, 2026
Pay: $28.45/hour
Employment: Subject to a collective bargaining agreement
Application Process
Applicants must submit a resume. Candidates who do not meet minimum requirements may not receive a response. Selected candidates must participate in an on-site working interview.
Position Summary
The Float Animal Keeper is a member of the Animal Care, Conservation & Research (ACCR) team and supports the physical health and psychological well-being of animals across multiple animal strings. Species may include baboons, gibbons, squirrel monkeys, chimpanzees, Amazon parrots, pudu, cotton-top tamarins, siamangs, sun bears, flamingos, hadada ibis, spoonbills, wallaroo and emu.
The Float Keeper covers animal strings when primary keepers are absent and assists with daily duties, special projects and department priorities.
Essential Duties
Use observation, enrichment, training and other animal-management techniques to promote animal welfare.
Assess the physical and behavioral needs of animals and implement appropriate care strategies.
Support Zoo and department priorities while identifying opportunities for improvement.
Guide and support junior staff and volunteers as appropriate.
Represent Oakland Zoo in public settings, including press interviews, educational programs and guest interactions.
Perform other related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
At least 2 years full-time or 4,160 hours of experience caring for captive wildlife in a zoo setting; one year may be unpaid experience. AZA- or GFAS-accredited facility experience preferred.
Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
Willingness to work weekends, evenings, holidays and outside normal business hours.
Knowledge of the habits and hazards associated with wild and dangerous animals and willingness to work around physical risk while following safety procedures.
Negative TB test within the past year.
Tetanus vaccination within the past 10 years.
Preferred Qualifications
Code Red or dangerous-animal experience.
Knowledge and practical experience with behavioral training theory.
Ability to engage and inspire guests through informal and formal conservation programs.
Bachelor's degree in zoology, biology or related field, or specialized Associate's degree.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
Work occurs indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions and may involve dirt and dust. Must be able to:
Lift at least 50 lbs. and move items weighing at least 120 lbs.
Walk long distances over uneven, steep or muddy terrain.
Safely work around wild animals and follow required safety protocols.
Reasonable accommodations may be provided in accordance with applicable law.
Core Competencies
Collaboration: Builds trusting relationships and approaches differences with curiosity and humility.
Communication: Communicates respectfully and effectively with diverse stakeholders.
Inclusive Culture: Promotes mutual respect, transparency, belonging and teamwork.
Organization: Maintains strong attention to detail and efficient systems.
Time Management: Effectively prioritizes multiple responsibilities.
Sustainability: Supports Oakland Zoo's mission by developing creative, resourceful and sustainable practices.
Passion: Models the Zoo's mission and PRIDE values.
Wildlife Awareness: Demonstrates commitment to animal welfare and conservation and continually seeks opportunities to learn and take action for wildlife.
Benefits
Comprehensive benefits include health, dental and vision insurance, flexible spending account, retirement plan, paid time off, Employee Assistance Program and Zoo membership options.
Updated 7h ago
Candidate fit
Skills and qualifications
Additional skills
Experience
2+ 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
$28 - $28 per hour
Benefits and perks
Location, schedule, and role shape
Work setup
Work conditions
Bandwidth profile
Context on the employer
Company snapshot
Company
Oakland Zoo
Team size
Growing team
Location
Oakland, California, United States
The Oakland Zoo is dedicated to the physical health and psychological well-being of animals, supporting conservation and welfare locally and globally. It offers a comprehensive benefits package to its employees.
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Float Keeper B
Oakland, California, United States • Full Time