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Zoo Keeper
Ambassador Animals
Location
New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
Work type
Onsite
Employment
Full Time
Experience
2-5 years
Compensation
Compensation not disclosed
Posted
1d ago
Summary and responsibilities
Role overview
Summary
This Zookeeper position at Audubon Zoo involves providing technical work in the daily care of specific animals and habitats, working under minimal supervision. Responsibilities include routine zookeeper duties, supervising volunteer staff, and participating in training and behavioral enrichment programs. The role works directly with the Ambassador Animal collection, delivering daily guest-facing programming.
Zookeeper – Ambassador Animals – Audubon Zoo
Location: New Orleans, LA (Audubon Zoo)
Position Type: Full-Time (Includes weekends, holidays, overtime, and on-call emergency coverage)
About the Role
Audubon Zoo is seeking a skilled and proactive Zookeeper to join our Ambassador Animal team. Reporting to the Assistant Curator, you will provide high-standard daily care, enrichment, and training for a diverse collection of reptiles, invertebrates, mammals, and birds.
This role uniquely combines animal husbandry with active, guest-facing educational presentations, behind-the-scenes VIP tours, and interactive animal encounters.
Key Responsibilities
1. Daily Husbandry & Habitat Care
• Clean, sanitize, and maintain assigned exhibits, off-exhibit holding, and service areas to "camera-ready" standards.
• Prepare and distribute prescribed species-appropriate diets and monitor feeding intake.
• Inspect habitats for routine repairs; perform minor maintenance and report major structural issues.
• Operate power tools, grounds maintenance gear, and equipment (e.g., lawn mowers, skid steers).
2. Animal Health, Training & Enrichment
• Observe general physical condition, appetite, and behavior daily; promptly log and report abnormalities.
• Design, implement, and document operant conditioning (positive reinforcement) and behavioral enrichment programs.
• Safely handle, capture, restrain, and shift diverse ambassador species for exams, presentations, and moves.
• Assist veterinary staff with examinations, treatments, and medical care administration.
3. Guest Engagement & Public Presentations
• Deliver engaging, formal and informal animal chats, demonstrations, and paid encounters to diverse audiences.
• Host behind-the-scenes tours for VIPs and donors while maintaining animal welfare and audience safety.
• Apply current informal education methods to interpret wildlife conservation effectively.
4. Teamwork & Safety Operations
• Maintain detailed records using tracking software; complete technical animal management reports.
• Mentor, train, and guide volunteers, interns, and newer animal care staff.
• Follow strict safety protocols; serve on the zoo's hurricane Storm Rider emergency response team.
What We’re Looking For
• Education & Experience: High school diploma or equivalent required. Degree or coursework in Zoology, Biology, or Animal Science preferred (substantial experience may substitute).
• Skills & Knowledge: Proven experience handling, restraining, and caring for exotic animals (birds, reptiles, mammals). Strong grasp of behavioral training, enrichment, zoonotic disease prevention, and exhibitory methods.
• Software: Proficiency in Microsoft Office; familiarity with ZIMS or TRACKS records systems is a plus.
• Certifications: Valid Louisiana driver's license (or ability to obtain one); CPR/First Aid certification preferred.
Physical & Environmental Demands
• Must safely lift up to 100 lbs occasionally and frequently carry objects up to 50 lbs.
• Work outdoors in extreme weather conditions (intense heat, humidity, and torrential rain).
• Frequent walking, standing, bending, climbing, stooping, and operating equipment.
• Strong visual acuity, peripheral vision, and quick motor reflexes to manage animals and crowds.
• Ability to project your voice clearly to communicate effectively before moderate to large crowds.
Updated 1d ago
Candidate fit
Skills and qualifications
Additional skills
Experience
2-5 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
Compensation not disclosed
Location, schedule, and role shape
Work setup
Work conditions
Bandwidth profile
Context on the employer
Company snapshot
Company
Audubon Nature Institute
Team size
Growing team
Location
New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
Audubon Nature Institute is a dedicated team with a shared mission to celebrate, protect, and connect people to the wonders of nature. It comprises Audubon Park, Audubon Zoo, Audubon Aquarium, Audubon Insectarium, Audubon Louisiana Nature Center, Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center, Audubon Center for Research of Endangered Species, Woldenberg Riverfront Park, and Audubon Wilderness Park. The institute focuses on activating impact, empowering optimism, creating connection, embodying the spirit of Le Bon Temps, and leading with innovation.
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Zoo Keeper
New Orleans, Louisiana, United States • Full Time