Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute · Washington DC · posted today
The Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) is currently seeking qualified applicants to fill multiple Animal Keeper vacancies across several animal management units. These positions support the Zoo's mission of providing exceptional animal care, advancing conservation efforts, and delivering engaging visitor experiences. This vacancy announcement will be used to fill current and future openings in various animal areas throughout the Zoo. Assignments may include, but are not limited to: • Felids and Other Carnivores • Small Mammals • Pinnipeds • Commissary • Other animal collections and zoological units as operational needs require Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is a highly motivated animal care professional who demonstrates an understanding of and commitment to safety, strong observational skills, sound judgment, accountability, a commitment to animal welfare, and the ability to work collaboratively within a team environment. Experience at an AZA-accredited institution and familiarity with modern behavioral husbandry practices, positive reinforcement training, and conservation-focused animal management programs are highly desirable. Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Candidates will be evaluated based on demonstrated experience in the following areas: Animal Care Procedures • Providing daily husbandry, feeding, cleaning, exhibit maintenance, monitoring, and health observations for animal collections. • Following established protocols for animal welfare, sanitation, nutrition, and safety. Animal Enrichment • Developing, implementing, and evaluating enrichment programs that encourage species-appropriate behaviors and support animal well-being. • Utilizing enrichment as a tool to enhance physical and psychological welfare. Conducting Animal Demonstrations and Public Engagement • Communicating effectively with visitors, guests, volunteers, and staff. • Participating in formal or informal animal presentations, keeper talks, demonstrations, or educational programs that advance conservation messaging and public understanding. Behavioral Husbandry • Participating in animal training and behavioral management programs using positive reinforcement and operant conditioning techniques. • Assisting with animal introductions, breeding programs, medical training, and cooperative husbandry behaviors. Monitoring Animal Behavior • Observing and documenting animal behavior, including feeding activity, social interactions, breeding behavior, nesting behavior, maternal care, and behavioral indicators of health and welfare. • Reporting observations accurately and utilizing behavioral data to support animal management decisions. Commissary Operations and Animal Nutrition Support • Receiving training in the measurement, preparation, and handling of animal diets while maintaining sanitary conditions in food preparation, storage, and distribution areas. • Assisting with the unloading, inspection, storage, and rotation of food supplies to ensure quality and compliance with food safety standards. • Preparing animal diets according to established nutritional guidelines, recipes, and standard operating procedures under supervision. • Assembling diets in properly labeled containers and distributing or issuing food, supplements, forage, and related materials to animal care staff in a timely and accurate manner. • Maintaining inventory records and assisting with stock management to ensure adequate supplies are available to support animal care operations.
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