Job Opportunity at the ABQ BioPark: 
Assistant Zookeeper II (Primates)

The successful candidate will help the primate team provide the highest level of care for the primates at the ABQ BioPark. A strong commitment to conservation and an understanding of animal well-being is paramount. This position reports to the Curator of Primates & Elephants and the Assistant Curator of Primates and is part of the Primate Department.

The ABQ BioPark consists of the Zoo, Aquarium and Botanic Garden, and Tingley Beach.

This position is employed through a temporary staffing agency, not the City of Albuquerque, and is located at the ABQ BioPark. This full-time position is limited to a two year term.

The Assistant Zookeeper's duties may include, but are not limited to:

• Assist zookeepers in the day-to-day care of the primates
• Feed and water animals as directed
• Prepare diets for animals
• Clean and maintain assigned animal areas and workspaces as directed and according to established BioPark, AZA, and USDA guidelines
• Help maintain cleanliness of assigned areas
• Observe and assist with select animal training sessions

A Successful Assistant Zookeeper will:

• Be familiar with the purpose and importance of zoos and aquariums
• Prioritize safety
• Understand, respect, and follow all protocols
• Be able to work efficiently and quickly adapt to change during the workday
• Have a friendly and open personality and enjoy working with a diverse group of individuals
• Be able to communicate, receive, and adapt to constructive feedback
• Be confident working independently as well as in a fast-paced team environment
• Be motivated, hard-working, and dependable
• Be comfortable working outdoors for several hours a day in variable weather conditions

Qualifications

• Candidates must pass a security background check and tuberculosis test to be hired
• Applicants must be 18 years or older, have a high school diploma and be physically able to lift or move up to 50 pounds (feed bags, animal waste, and equipment)
• Applicants must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation (standing, walking, reaching, bending, squatting, kneeling for prolonged periods; heavy, moderate, or light lifting, pulling, and pushing)
• Applicants must be able to work around a variety of animals, the public, extreme heat, noise, dust, and insects in inclement weather conditions
• Prior animal care experience is preferred

Work schedule: 

Full-time. Generally five days on, two days off, from 8 am to 5 pm. Will work weekends; occasional holiday and evening work may be required. May not exceed 40 hours per week.

Pay rate: 

$12.50 per hour. This position is employed through a temporary staffing agency, not the City of Albuquerque.

To apply:

Please prepare a résumé and contact information for two references.  

Send this information to [email protected] with the subject line Application for Assistant Zookeeper II - Primates with Albuquerque BioPark.  Applications are open until filled.