Encounters Keeper- Full Time

Flamingos, Psittacine, Penguins, OH MY! From conducting informal presentations and behind the scenes tours with guests, to performing daily husbandry tasks for our many species of birds and small mammals, our full-time Encounters Keeper is always in flight! The Indianapolis Zoo is seeking an energetic individual with exceptional public speaking skills to join our Encounters flock!


The ideal candidate is committed to advancing the Zoo's mission to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world. Having a professional attitude with visitors, volunteers, and co-workers is vital to the position, as well as being a team-oriented individual temperamentally suited to work with the public and a variety of animal ambassador species. Prior experience working with penguins, psittacine, flamingos, sloth, and other ambassador animals is highly desired as well as prior experience with positive reinforcement and operant conditioning. Strong observation and communication skills are a must. This is a full-time, 40 hours per week position that requires availability to work weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.


What You'll Do

• Perform daily husbandry tasks and manual work involving the care and maintenance of the animals and exhibits under this position's care.
• Complete daily and weekly area duties, including reports.
• Assist with research projects and exhibit modifications.
• Assist in training seasonal care staff, interns, and volunteers.
• Learn and implement species quarantine procedures as directed.
• Participate in area chats, feeds and behind-the-scenes tours.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university in life sciences, zoology, or a related field is required.
• One (1) year of prior related work experience.
• Exceptional public speaking skills and the ability to provide outstanding customer service to our guests.
• Ability to exert at least 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently.
• Ability to ascend/descend ladders, steps, and uneven terrain, while maintaining body equilibrium to perform various jobs.
• Valid driver's license and driving record insurable by the Zoo's insurance.

Why the Indianapolis Zoo?

Join a mission-driven team where your skills will help make a global impact. As a unique institution accredited as a zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden, the Indianapolis Zoo offers an inspiring environment for innovation, education, and conservation.

To Apply:

Interested candidates must complete an application on the Indianapolis Zoo's website and include a resume, cover letter, and salary requirements to be considered.


Employment at the Indianapolis Zoo is contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment testing including a background check, motor vehicle check (if applicable) and a drug test.