Ark Encounter Hoofstock Zookeeper Full Time

Job Details

Job Location

Ark Encounter - Williamstown, KY

Position Type

Full Time

Description

The Ararat Ridge Zoo at the Ark Encounter exists to be a world-class zoo providing guests with experiences and education that inspire a biblical understanding of creation, highlight the purpose of God's design, and promote stewardship of creation. Applicants should have a strong background and experience working with hoofstock animals (exotic hoofstock experience preferred), a basic understanding of animal health care and husbandry techniques, an awareness of animal enrichment, the ability to perform vigorous physical activities both indoors and outdoors under all weather conditions, and enjoy interacting with guests. This position should display our Core Values of SERVE when interfacing with both internal and external customers to ensure that the message and mission of Answers in Genesis is portrayed in an effective and God honoring fashion.

Responsibilities

• Promote the Mission and Standards of Answers in Genesis.
• Demonstrate our Core Values of SERVE (Serve, Equip, Relate, Value, Engage) in all work.
• Approach all tasks with a second-mile mindset.
• Prioritize personal integrity in all interactions and assignments.
• Guest engagement within the zoo and the greater attraction
• Responsible for the care of hoofstock that may include camelids, zebroids, donkeys, goats, sheep, and aoudads
• Responsible for animal husbandry, including:
  • Habitat cleaning and upkeep
  • Diet preparation and distribution
  • Recording data in the animal care system
  • Plan and schedule environmental enrichment based on behavioral goals
  • Participate in operant conditioning for husbandry behaviors
  • And additional husbandry tasks as assigned
• Ensure the safety of guests, animals, and fellow staff members in the performance of the job
  • Ensure designated areas are clean and free of clutter
  • Follow all SOPs to ensure safe day-to-day operation of the zoo
  • Follow all state and federal animal welfare regulations (USDA)
• Ability to work holidays and weekends
• And all other duties and responsibilities as assigned by management.

Qualifications

Requirements

• Must agree with and be able to sign our Statement of Faith.
• Availability to work weekends and holidays
• Must have a minimum of one year of work in an animal care environment and/or be pursuing an associate or bachelor’s degree in zoology or a related field.
• Bend and lift up to 50 pounds. 
• Must be at least 18 years of age or older.
• To operate ministry trucks and vehicles must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Must be able to stand and move about throughout the attraction for the entire length of the shift.
• Perform duties in varied temperatures and weather conditions throughout the attraction (e.g., extreme heat/cold, wind, rain, snow).

Education & Experience

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in zoology or related field preferred
• 2 years of experience working in the animal care field