The Animal Keeper-Seasonal performs assigned functions, under the direction of the Animal Keepers assigned to work area(s), following accepted safety guidelines for seasonal employees as prescribed by Zoological Programs Management. The Animal Keeper Seasonal utilizes their developing knowledge of animal husbandry, a strong conservation ethic, and exceptional interpersonal skills to provide high quality assistance to assigned areas.

Assists Animal Keepers with:
- Providing food, water, medications, and supplements as indicated by schedules, prescriptions, or diet boards; includes loading and unloading animal feeds, hay, bedding, and animal care supplies.
- Completing daily activity reports, diet consumption reports, behavior and/or training records, enrichment records, or any written documentation on assigned animals.
- Cleaning, maintaining, and disinfecting animal enclosures and service areas.
- Observing individual animals daily and reports animal behavior, appearance, fecal conditions, and unique characteristics to the Animal Keeper.
- Safely crating and transporting animals for veterinary procedures and in-zoo transfers.
- Monitoring, reporting, and performing pest control in assigned areas.
- Water samples and recording water analysis.
- Providing continual environmental enrichment by approved methods.
- Training assigned animals for husbandry and enrichment.
Communicates regularly with Keepers, Associate Curators, and Animal Curators concerning manners of animal care, safety, and work schedules.
Keeps direct supervisor promptly informed of significant issues or concerns.
Carries out duties and responsibilities in a safe and efficient manner to maintain a safe work environment and surrounding area for oneself, co-workers and public. Responds to hazardous situations and/or potentially unsafe conditions by taking corrective action as capable and promptly notifying supervisory personnel.
Attends and participates in scheduled meetings.
Operates a motor vehicle and other mechanical tools and equipment (i.e. hand tools, computers, incubators, etc.).
Attends and participates in scheduled meetings.
Supports the mission statement of the zoo and established animal care programs.
Demonstrates initiative, dependability, teamwork, resourcefulness, good judgment, a positive attitude, and uses common sense.

Requirements:

High School Diploma or equivalent required. Recent graduate or present student in a college/university seeking a bachelor's degree in animal sciences or related field preferred.
Must possess a valid driver's license.
Demonstrated education, training and experience supporting the Essential Functions.
A demonstrated career path pursuing a career in zoo animal keeping
Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with stakeholders, including employees and visitors.
Ability to speak and write clearly, concisely and persuasively using correct grammar, spelling and punctuation with ability to communicate one-on-one or in group settings.
Ability to perform work with a high degree of accuracy and organization.
Ability to work cooperatively with others.
Ability to perform with considerable independence and initiative.

Work Schedule: Length of service varies depending on focus area. Maximum 26 weeks, minimum 14 weeks.

Application Deadline: 03/12/2026

Cleveland Metroparks

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Animal Keeper - Seasonal