Seasonal Keeper - Animal Ambassador Team

Cincinnati Zoo
United States, Ohio, Cincinnati
3400 Vine Street (Show on map)
Mar 27, 2025
Animal Ambassador Team - Seasonal Keeper The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is known for many things- our conservation efforts, our green initiatives, our friendly staff... but did you know that we have a strong set of core values that make us the best team around, and a Top Workplace in Cincinnati? We're more than coworkers... we're family. By building Collaborative Relationships, displaying Positivity & Energy, having Pride, Passion & a Sense of Ownership, supporting Accountability, Mutual Trust & Respect, and embracing Progressive Thinking, we have built a team of dedicated staff that focuses on our visitors, our community & our future. This is what we believe and how we act. If this gets you fired up, we look forward to having you join the team! We are looking for dynamic individuals to join our team as a Seasonal Keeper with the Animal Ambassador Department. This position would begin in May and run through February, 2026. Position Summary: You will work alongside the Animal Ambassador keeper staff; the seasonal keeper will assist with the daily husbandry and maintenance of the animals in the collection. This includes, but is not limited to, cleaning, feeding, enrichment, and area maintenance. This position will be working in behind - the- scenes animal areas, as well as be a part of visitor facing opportunities, with people of all ages. Duties may include related tasks and/or unrelated duties as assigned. The ideal candidate will possess and demonstrate the following attributes: strong communication skills (both oral and written); a positive attitude in the work environment and support a strong team environment; demonstrated initiative and a strong work & conservation ethic; appropriate professional appearance, attitude and personality to work effectively with Zoo staff members, donors, guests and the public. Employment Details: Pay: $15.00/ hour Hours per Week: Part time hours Work Shift: 28-29 hours per week 8:15 to 4:00 (weekends to be determined) Duration: MINIMUM DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS Equivalent combinations of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job will be considered. *Education & Experience:* Preferred candidates have, or be working towards, a degree in the biological sciences or related field Demonstrated knowledge and a minimum one (1) year successful experience in animal husbandry and experience using operant & classical conditioning & animal handling techniques Prior experience with public speaking and/or guest engagement activities *Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:* Successful applicants must demonstrate excellent communication and problem-solving skills, while applying good judgment, to deliver animal care and guest experiences that meet the highest standards The ability to establish and maintain positive relationships with co-workers (including staff, interns, students and volunteers) and public in a professional and courteous manner Candidate must be comfortable with guest interactions and in delivering public presentations Self-starter with demonstrated initiative and excellent follow-through The ability to work a flexible schedule, including evening and weekend hours Be timely and reliable in attendance and performance *Working Conditions:* Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a post-offer, pre-employment drug & nicotine screen & background check. New hires must also show proof of COVID-19 vaccination including booster. While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; climb or balance and grasp objects. In addition, the employee is regularly exposed to outside weather conditions; Must be able to lift & move 50 pounds without mechanical assistance; possess a valid driver's license (and insurable to drive a Zoo vehicle). To apply for this position: A Cover letter and resume is required for a complete application