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

The successful candidate will help the elephant team provide the highest level of care for the elephant herd. A strong commitment to conservation and understanding of animal well-being is paramount. This position reports to the Elephant Manager and is part of the Elephant 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 duties may include, but are not limited to:

• Assist zookeepers in the day-to-day care of the elephants
• 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 guidelines
• Help maintain cleanliness of assigned areas
• Observe and assist animal training sessions

A Successful Assistant Zookeeper will:

• Be familiar with the purpose and importance of zoos and aquariums.
• Prioritize safety and respect and follow protocols.
• Be able to work efficiently and quickly adapt to change during the workday.
• Be motivated to work independently as well as in a fast-paced team environment.
• Have a friendly and open personality and enjoy working with a diverse cross section of individuals.
• 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 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 various animals, the public, extreme heat, noise, dust, and insects in inclement weather conditions.

Work schedule:  

Full-time. Generally five days on, two days off. Works weekends. Hours from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Occasional holidays and evening work may be required.

Pay rate:  

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

To apply:

Please provide a résumé and contact information for two references. 

Send this information to [email protected] with the subject line Application for Assistant Zookeeper II (Elephants) with Albuquerque BioPark. Applications must be received by February 1, 2025.

After initial review, we may contact you for a second interview and tour of the assigned work area.