Zookeeper

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Gladys Porter Zoo

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Zookeeper

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Position Summary

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Gladys Porter Zoo is seeking passionate and dedicated Zookeepers to join our Animal Care team across multiple areas of the collection, including opportunities working with avian, carnivore, and/or primate species.

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Zookeepers are responsible for the daily husbandry, welfare, and enrichment of animals while contributing to the Zoo's mission of conservation, education, and meaningful guest engagement. This role is ideal for individuals committed to high standards of animal care who take pride in consistency, attention to detail, and being a dependable part of a collaborative team environment aligned with AZA standards.

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Key Responsibilities

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• Provide daily husbandry for assigned animals, including diet preparation, feeding, cleaning, and habitat maintenance

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• Observe and evaluate animal health and behavior; promptly communicate concerns to supervisory staff

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• Prepare and implement enrichment and assist with behavioral husbandry and training programs using positive reinforcement techniques

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• Maintain accurate and timely records, including daily reports, diet logs, and behavioral observations

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• Ensure animal habitats meet high standards of cleanliness, safety, and welfare

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• Collaborate with animal care team members and other departments to support animal wellbeing and operational consistency

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• Engage with guests through informal interpretation and educational interactions

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• Participate in team meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities

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• Assist with special events and additional duties as assigned

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Minimum Qualifications

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• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Zoology, Animal Science, or a related field, or equivalent experience

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• Experience working with animals in a zoological, wildlife, or related setting

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• Strong work ethic, reliability, and attention to detail

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• Ability to follow established protocols and contribute to a team-oriented environment

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• Effective communication and interpersonal skills

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Preferred Qualifications

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• Experience in an AZA-accredited institution

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• Familiarity with animal training, enrichment, and behavioral husbandry practices

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• Experience working with a variety of taxa

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• Demonstrated ability to work independently while maintaining strong communication with supervisors

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Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

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• Strong observational skills and ability to recognize changes in animal behavior or condition

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• Ability to perform physically demanding work in a dynamic environment

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• Willingness to learn and adapt to evolving animal care practices

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• Professional and respectful interaction with staff, volunteers, and guests

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Working Conditions & Requirements

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• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays

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• Ability to work in varying and sometimes extreme weather conditions

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• Regular exposure to animal environments

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• Physical requirements include walking long distances, standing for extended periods, lifting, bending, climbing, and lifting at least 50 lbs

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• Must pass a criminal background check

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Who We're Looking For

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We are looking for individuals who bring curiosity, professionalism, and a strong sense of responsibility to their work with animals. Successful candidates demonstrate a commitment to animal welfare, teamwork, and continuous learning, and understand the importance of consistency, follow-through, and supporting the success of the entire team.

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About Gladys Porter Zoo

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Gladys Porter Zoo is committed to excellence in animal care, conservation, education, and community engagement. As a member of AZA, the Zoo maintains the highest standards of animal welfare and strives to inspire conservation action through meaningful guest experiences.

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Located in Brownsville, TX, the Rio Grande Valley offers a unique blend of wildlife, culture, and access to nearby South Padre Island.

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Compensation & Benefits

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Salary commensurate with experience.

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• 100% employer-paid health, vision, dental, and basic life insurance

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• Paid time off: vacation, holidays, and sick leave

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• 401(k) plan

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• Supportive, team-oriented work environment

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How to Apply

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Application Instructions

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Submit cover letter, resume, and references to:

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Kelsey Forbes, Curator of Mammals, at kforbes@gpz.org

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Subject line: Zookeeper

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We look forward to hearing from you!

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Don't delay! Applications will be reviewed as they are received.

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Gladys Porter Zoo

500 E Ringgold St

Brownsville, TX 78520

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