Herpetologist Keeper
Association Of Zoos & Aquariums, Des Moines, IA, United States
Blank Park Zoo
The Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, Iowa is a non‑profit organization and home to more than 2,800 animals representing nearly 240 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and fish. It is fully accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The mission is to inspire an appreciation of the natural world through conservation, education, research, and recreation.
Herpetologist Keeper
Position Purpose
The Herpetologist Keeper is responsible for the care and management of a diverse collection of reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates, including program leadership for the Wyoming toad conservation program. The role also contributes to freshwater and saltwater fish care as part of the Aquatics team.
Essential Functions
Prepare diets and distribute food according to feeding schedules.
Clean and maintain animal exhibits and holding areas, ensuring health and presentation.
Design and fabricate new exhibits with team members.
Maintain feeder cultures and breeding programs through SSP and conservation partnerships.
Administer medications and treatments according to veterinary instructions.
Assist in handling or restraining animals safely.
Supervise animal care interns and volunteers.
Observe animals, evaluate behavior, and record health information.
Assist with animal acquisition, acclimation, and quarantine.
Lead all aspects of the Wyoming toad conservation program.
Serve as a customer‑service liaison for visitors.
Participate in networking, media contacts, public speaking, and fundraising activities.
Attend training programs to develop husbandry skills.
Work with venomous and dangerous animals safely.
Maintain daily records.
Cover fish and aquatic invertebrate exhibits when needed.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Area Supervisor.
Physical Requirements
Requires climbing ladders and working in confined spaces, lifting up to 60 lb, operating machinery and power tools, driving vehicles, and working outdoors in a range of weather conditions.
Required Education and Experience
1–2 years of paid experience in a zoo or related field. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
Additional Eligibility Requirements
Must be insurable to drive a zoo vehicle.
Must maintain work hours that serve the zoo’s needs.
Must operate various equipment, including skid loaders and trailers.
Must display calm professionalism during emergencies and guest interactions.
Licenses and Certifications
First Aid/CPR Training.
Other Duties
Other duties may be assigned as required.
Affirmative Action/EEO Statement
Blank Park Zoo is an equal opportunity employer and gives employment and promotional consideration without regard to race, color, sex, religion, age, disability, disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam era, and any other protected class as required by local, state, or federal law.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
The Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, Iowa is a non‑profit organization and home to more than 2,800 animals representing nearly 240 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and fish. It is fully accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The mission is to inspire an appreciation of the natural world through conservation, education, research, and recreation.
Herpetologist Keeper
Position Purpose
The Herpetologist Keeper is responsible for the care and management of a diverse collection of reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates, including program leadership for the Wyoming toad conservation program. The role also contributes to freshwater and saltwater fish care as part of the Aquatics team.
Essential Functions
Prepare diets and distribute food according to feeding schedules.
Clean and maintain animal exhibits and holding areas, ensuring health and presentation.
Design and fabricate new exhibits with team members.
Maintain feeder cultures and breeding programs through SSP and conservation partnerships.
Administer medications and treatments according to veterinary instructions.
Assist in handling or restraining animals safely.
Supervise animal care interns and volunteers.
Observe animals, evaluate behavior, and record health information.
Assist with animal acquisition, acclimation, and quarantine.
Lead all aspects of the Wyoming toad conservation program.
Serve as a customer‑service liaison for visitors.
Participate in networking, media contacts, public speaking, and fundraising activities.
Attend training programs to develop husbandry skills.
Work with venomous and dangerous animals safely.
Maintain daily records.
Cover fish and aquatic invertebrate exhibits when needed.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Area Supervisor.
Physical Requirements
Requires climbing ladders and working in confined spaces, lifting up to 60 lb, operating machinery and power tools, driving vehicles, and working outdoors in a range of weather conditions.
Required Education and Experience
1–2 years of paid experience in a zoo or related field. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
Additional Eligibility Requirements
Must be insurable to drive a zoo vehicle.
Must maintain work hours that serve the zoo’s needs.
Must operate various equipment, including skid loaders and trailers.
Must display calm professionalism during emergencies and guest interactions.
Licenses and Certifications
First Aid/CPR Training.
Other Duties
Other duties may be assigned as required.
Affirmative Action/EEO Statement
Blank Park Zoo is an equal opportunity employer and gives employment and promotional consideration without regard to race, color, sex, religion, age, disability, disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam era, and any other protected class as required by local, state, or federal law.
#J-18808-Ljbffr