Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden · Ohio · posted 9 days ago
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is seeking an experienced Elephant Keeper to join our Asian Elephant Program. This position plays a key role in the daily care, behavioral management, and long-term success of a multi-generational, breeding elephant herd. The successful candidate will have significant experience with protected contact management, operant conditioning, behavioral observations and problem-solving. Additional consideration will be given to candidates with hands-on experience managing multiple herds, bulls, introductions, and calf management. We are looking for a highly motivated keeper who excels at teamwork and open communication, and who demonstrates strong situational awareness and professionalism when working with large animals. Position Benefits: • Union negotiated pay rates, with a starting hourly rate between $23.83 - $28.24 determined by years of field experience. • 200 PTO hours accrued throughout the first year of service, 80 of which is loaded into the PTO bank upon hire • Competitive benefit packages and retirement matching programs • Employee Assistance Programs • Facility culture that highlights the following core values: • Collaborative Relationships • Pride, Passion, and a Sense of Ownership • Positivity and Energy • Accountability, Mutual Trust, and Respect • Progressive Thinking • Intentional professional development opportunities, for both animal care and "people” skills Minimum Desired Qualifications: Preferred candidates will have: • Minimum 2 years professional elephant care experience in the last 10 years • Experience working with elephants in a protected contact management system • Demonstrated experience with operant conditioning and positive reinforcement training Experience with the following is strongly preferred: • Elephant introductions and herd management • Breeding and reproductive management • Calf care and development • Elephant foot care and preventative medical training • Behavioral observation and welfare monitoring • EEHV monitoring or treatment protocols Additional qualifications: • Degree in Zoology, Biology, Animal Science, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience) • Strong understanding of elephant behavior, husbandry, and safety practices • Excellent communication and teamwork skills • Valid driver’s license and ability to meet CZBG employment requirements Essential Responsibilities Husbandry & Welfare • Provide daily husbandry care including feeding, habitat maintenance, enrichment, and behavioral observation. • Participate in a protected contact elephant management program following established safety protocols. • Monitor elephant behavior and welfare and report abnormalities to supervisors and veterinary staff. • Maintain clean and safe indoor and outdoor elephant facilities. • Support exercise, enrichment, and environmental management programs that promote natural behaviors and activity. Behavioral Training • Participate in an operant conditioning program using positive reinforcement training. • Train elephants to voluntarily participate in husbandry and veterinary procedures. • Assist with development and implementation of individual training plans. • Maintain consistent communication with team members regarding training progress and behavioral changes. Management • Assist in management of a multi-generational elephant herd, including monitoring social dynamics and compatibility. • Participate in elephant introductions and social management under the direction of supervisors. • Assist with breeding management and reproductive monitoring in coordination with veterinary staff. • Support calf rearing and maternal care management. • Participate in husbandry and training programs that support calf development and socialization. • Participate in preventative care practices including: • Foot care • Skin care • Blood collection and trunk washes • Behavioral medical training • Maintain accurate daily records related to husbandry, enrichment, behavior, and training. Team Collaboration • Work collaboratively with elephant team members, veterinary staff, and other animal care departments. • Assist in training and mentoring interns, volunteers, and seasonal staff. • Maintain strong team communication regarding daily operations and animal management. Guest Engagement • Participate in keeper chats, tours, and other educational programs. • Represent the elephant program professionally when interacting with zoo guests. Working Conditions: While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; bend; climb or balance; lift, grasp; and negotiate stairs and ladders. In addition, the employee may be exposed to Zoonosis, chemicals, and outside weather conditions; Must be able to lift and move 50 pounds without mechanical assistance; must possess a valid driver’s license (and insurable to drive a Zoo vehicle). Position Details: This is a full-time (40 hours per week with benefits) Union keeper position, which is subject to the successful completion of a probationary and the deduction of union dues. This position requires weekend work with regular off-days TBD. This is a 4, 10 hr/day schedule. The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden offers a comprehensive benefits package including affordable medical, dental & vision coverage; 401(k) plan with company match; flexible spending accounts; generous paid time off (vacation, holiday and sick leave); company-paid disability & life insurance; park discounts and free passes. To Apply: Please apply at Job Opportunities | Cincinnati Zoo. Cover letter & resume should be attached to your online application Not familiar with Cincinnati? Check out the following: • Cincinnati Named One of the Best Cities in the Midwest for 2026 • Cincinnati Region's Official Travel and Tourism Guide | Visit Cincy • Is Cincinnati a good place to live? Yes, and here’s why - University of Cincinnati: Founder of Co-op, Leader in Co-op | University of Cincinnati
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