Animal Care Professional

The Animal Care Professional is responsible for daily animal husbandry and supporting the health and wellbeing of animals through habitat maintenance, diet preparation, behavioral observation, enrichment, training, recordkeeping, and guest engagement. This position works with Birmingham Zoo’s bachelor herd of African elephants and is part of a specialized team responsible for the care and safety of one of the Zoo’s most complex species.

The role requires strong teamwork, careful observation, consistency, and a commitment to high standards of elephant care and safety. The employee performs daily husbandry, maintains habitats, prepares diets, monitors animal behavior and health, provides enrichment and training, and adapts care practices based on environmental and operational needs.

The Animal Care Professional observes, documents, and communicates animal health, behavior, and wellbeing concerns, maintains accurate records, and supports safe animal handling, restraint, and transport using approved techniques. The position collaborates with team members and may assist with training new staff and volunteers. Employees are expected to contribute to a respectful, safe, welcoming, and professional environment while engaging with guests and supporting consistent animal care practices.

The position has no direct supervisory responsibilities but is expected to demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and adherence to organizational policies, safety procedures, and training requirements. All employees serve as ambassadors of Birmingham Zoo and are expected to represent its mission and core values of Passion, Excellence, Teamwork, Stewardship, and Inclusion.

The position involves exposure to hazards associated with outdoor and operational Zoo environments, including weather, equipment, and other environmental conditions. Employees receive safety training and must prioritize human safety followed by animal safety. Appropriate personal protective equipment must be used based on assigned duties and working conditions. All Zoo safety policies and emergency procedures must be followed, and injuries, incidents, and safety concerns must be reported through established channels.

The physical requirements include standing, walking, bending, kneeling, crouching, and moving for extended periods. Employees must be able to use their hands and operate tools or equipment, communicate effectively, and routinely move, lift, or carry items weighing up to 50 pounds or more depending on assigned duties. The position may involve working outdoors in varying temperatures, humidity, weather conditions, and on wet or uneven surfaces.

A bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology, or a related field is preferred, although an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered. Experience working with animals is preferred and may include volunteer, internship, or paid experience in a zoo, aquarium, or similar setting.

Candidates should demonstrate strong organizational, time management, and critical thinking skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and manage multiple responsibilities. Strong written and verbal communication skills are required, along with the ability to collaborate effectively and participate in guest engagement activities, including presentations. Attention to detail, computer proficiency, initiative, and an interest in conservation-focused work are also important.

Employees working around animals may be required to meet health and safety requirements based on job duties and exposure risks. These may include TB testing, rabies vaccination or titer verification, and other required vaccinations. When required documentation is not current, appropriate PPE, including an N95 respirator or similar protection, may be required. First Aid/CPR certification may also be required or must be obtained through training.

The employee may be required to operate Zoo vehicles, including golf carts, powered equipment, and ride or attraction systems. In such cases, a valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required, with pre-employment and annual Motor Vehicle Report checks conducted according to Zoo policy. Occasional travel may also be required.

Work schedules are based on operational needs and may include weekdays, weekends, evenings, holidays, and special events. Employees may also be required to work during emergencies or unusual operational circumstances.

Birmingham Zoo Inc. is committed to providing a safe and welcoming workplace and encourages applicants with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities. Applications are accepted until the position is filled, and final candidates may be subject to background screening and drug testing as permitted by law. Employment is at-will, and the Zoo may modify duties and requirements based on operational needs.