Share your passion for animals and be part of something BIG! The Saginaw Children’s Zoo is seeking dedicated and enthusiastic individuals to join our Animal Care team as Keeper I.
As champions for animals and children, we strive to create extraordinary experiences for our guests while providing exceptional care for our animals. Located in the heart of the Great Lakes Bay Region, we are proud to be an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)–accredited facility, offering high-quality animal care, conservation, and education in a family-friendly environment.
Position Summary
The Keeper I is responsible for the daily care and welfare of a diverse animal collection, including invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. This position plays a key role in animal husbandry, enrichment, training, and guest engagement while supporting the Zoo’s mission and standards.
Schedule: Full-time (40 hours/week), including weekends, holidays, and evenings as needed.
Key Responsibilities
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Perform daily animal husbandry and exhibit maintenance.
- Monitor and evaluate animal health, behavior, and overall welfare.
- Prepare and distribute animal diets.
- Maintain accurate animal care and recordkeeping documentation.
- Design and provide species-appropriate enrichment.
- Participate in operant conditioning and behavioral training.
- Engage with visitors and provide educational animal encounter.
- Assist with veterinary procedures as assigned.
- Follow all established procedures, protocols, and safety policies.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
- Minimum of one (1) year of animal care experience.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
- Computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office; ZIMS experience a plus.
- Strong time management and organizational skills.
- Ability to work outdoors in inclement weather and challenging conditions.
- Ability to lift and maneuver up to 50 lbs regularly.
- Ability to safely work around allergens such as hay, straw, and grass.
- Availability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, evenings, and emergency situations.
