Primary Keeper
Association Of Zoos & Aquariums, Oakland, CA, United States
Oakland Zoo
Primary Keeper
Animal Keepers play a vital role on the ACCR team, taking care of the physical health and psychological well‑being of the animals directly under their care. The Primary Keeper is responsible for the daily management of the String Three animals and facilities at the Oakland Zoo. This position is responsible for the daily management of a variety of species: amazon parrots, pudu, cotton top tamarins, siamang, sun bears, flamingos, hadada ibis, spoonbills, wallaroo and emu.
Use the tools of animal observation, enrichment, training and other management methods to ensure the best possible psychological well‑being of the animals in their care
Conduct ongoing assessment of their physical and psycho‑social needs
Design and implement steps to address these needs
Implement Department/Zoo priorities as well as demonstrate the initiative and expertise to regularly find ways to make improvements
Guide and support junior staff and volunteers as appropriate
Represent the Zoo in a variety of public settings including press interviews, instructional classes and casual communication with Zoo guests
Perform other related duties as required and assigned
Experience Required
Minimum of 2 years full time or 4160 hours experience in the care of captive wildlife in the zoo field (preferably at an AZA or GFAS facility). This can include 1 year of unpaid experience. Valid driver’s license and clean driving record. Willingness to work outside normal business hours including weekends, evenings, and holidays. Knowledge of the habits and hazards of working with wild, dangerous animals; willingness to work with some physical risk while observing proper safety precautions. Medical requirements: negative TB test within the last year, tetanus vaccine within the last 10 years. Bonus if you have Code red or dangerous animal experience, Knowledge and experience in behavioral training theory and practical application. Ability to inspire guests in casual (e.g., one on one) and formal (i.e., programs) venues to take action for conservation. Bachelor’s degree in zoology, biology or a related field or a specialized associate’s degree (ex: Moorpark).
This position is subject to a collective bargaining agreement. The application deadline is April 26, 2026.
Oakland Zoo offers a comprehensive benefits package, including Health insurance, Dental insurance, Vision insurance, Flexible spending account, Retirement plan, Paid time off, Employee Assistance Program, and Zoo Membership options.
$28.45
How to Apply
Application Process
Applicants must submit a resume.
Candidates not meeting minimum requirements may not receive a response.
Applicants selected for candidacy are required to attend an on‑site working interview.
Oakland Zoo
9777 Golf Links Rd
Oakland, CA 94604
Phone: 510-632-9525
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Primary Keeper
Animal Keepers play a vital role on the ACCR team, taking care of the physical health and psychological well‑being of the animals directly under their care. The Primary Keeper is responsible for the daily management of the String Three animals and facilities at the Oakland Zoo. This position is responsible for the daily management of a variety of species: amazon parrots, pudu, cotton top tamarins, siamang, sun bears, flamingos, hadada ibis, spoonbills, wallaroo and emu.
Use the tools of animal observation, enrichment, training and other management methods to ensure the best possible psychological well‑being of the animals in their care
Conduct ongoing assessment of their physical and psycho‑social needs
Design and implement steps to address these needs
Implement Department/Zoo priorities as well as demonstrate the initiative and expertise to regularly find ways to make improvements
Guide and support junior staff and volunteers as appropriate
Represent the Zoo in a variety of public settings including press interviews, instructional classes and casual communication with Zoo guests
Perform other related duties as required and assigned
Experience Required
Minimum of 2 years full time or 4160 hours experience in the care of captive wildlife in the zoo field (preferably at an AZA or GFAS facility). This can include 1 year of unpaid experience. Valid driver’s license and clean driving record. Willingness to work outside normal business hours including weekends, evenings, and holidays. Knowledge of the habits and hazards of working with wild, dangerous animals; willingness to work with some physical risk while observing proper safety precautions. Medical requirements: negative TB test within the last year, tetanus vaccine within the last 10 years. Bonus if you have Code red or dangerous animal experience, Knowledge and experience in behavioral training theory and practical application. Ability to inspire guests in casual (e.g., one on one) and formal (i.e., programs) venues to take action for conservation. Bachelor’s degree in zoology, biology or a related field or a specialized associate’s degree (ex: Moorpark).
This position is subject to a collective bargaining agreement. The application deadline is April 26, 2026.
Oakland Zoo offers a comprehensive benefits package, including Health insurance, Dental insurance, Vision insurance, Flexible spending account, Retirement plan, Paid time off, Employee Assistance Program, and Zoo Membership options.
$28.45
How to Apply
Application Process
Applicants must submit a resume.
Candidates not meeting minimum requirements may not receive a response.
Applicants selected for candidacy are required to attend an on‑site working interview.
Oakland Zoo
9777 Golf Links Rd
Oakland, CA 94604
Phone: 510-632-9525
#J-18808-Ljbffr