Animal Keeper

Bring Curiosity to Life. Care for Animals. Inspire Every Guest.

At NorCal Aquarium and Wildlife Adventures, Animal Keepers do more than care for animals - they create moments of connection that spark curiosity, empathy, and lifelong respect for wildlife.

As an Animal Keeper, you’ll play a hands-on role in animal care while helping guests experience the wonder of the natural world up close. Whether you’re preparing habitats, observing animal behavior, or sharing stories with families, your work directly supports animal welfare, education, and conservation.

If you’re passionate about animals, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and enjoy engaging with people just as much as caring for wildlife, this role is for you.

What You’ll Do:

Animal Care & Husbandry:

• Provide daily care for a diverse collection of animals, including feeding, cleaning, habitat maintenance, and enrichment.
• Follow established procedures to ensure the highest standards of animal welfare and safety.
• Observe animals closely and report any changes in behavior, appetite, or health.
• Support animal movements, introductions, and routine care activities.

Guest Experience & Education:

• Engage guests in meaningful, memorable interactions throughout the facility.
• Share animal stories, fun facts, and conservation messaging in a way that is approachable and engaging.
• Help guests understand the “why” behind animal care and conservation efforts.
• Maintain awareness of guest safety and exhibit boundaries in a dynamic environment.

Mission & Conservation:

• Actively support the organization’s mission through daily actions and guest interactions.
• Inspire guests to care about wildlife, conservation, and responsible stewardship.
• Represent the organization with professionalism, enthusiasm, and authenticity.

Safety & Operations:

• Follow all safety protocols, PPE requirements, and emergency procedures.
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe animal care areas.
• Respond quickly to changing environments to protect both animals and guests.
• Participate in drills, training, and ongoing safety education.

Growth & Development:

• Learn and apply animal care techniques, handling skills, and education strategies.
• Participate in training and actively seek feedback.
• Build knowledge across species, habitats, and conservation topics.
• Grow into increased responsibility over time.

Teamwork & Culture:

• Collaborate with Animal Care, Guest Services, and leadership teams.
• Communicate clearly, respectfully, and proactively.
• Show up reliably and contribute to a positive, solutions-focused team environment.

What You Bring:

Required:

• Degree in Zoology, Marine Biology, Animal Science, or a related field.
• Passion for animal care, education, and conservation.
• Comfort working in a guest-facing, interactive environment.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Willingness to learn, take direction, and follow established procedures.
• Ability to work on your feet, indoors and outdoors, in a physically active role.

Preferred:

• Hands-on experience with animals in a professional, academic, or volunteer setting.
• Experience in education, public speaking, or customer service.
• Background in biology, animal science, or environmental education.

Physical & Environmental Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work around animals, water systems, cleaning agents, and food prep areas.
• Ability to stay alert and responsive in a fast-paced, guest-facing environment.

What Success Looks Like:

• Animals in your care are healthy, safe, and thriving.
• Guests leave with a memorable, positive experience.
• You consistently follow procedures while growing your skills.
• You build strong, collaborative relationships with your team.
• You contribute to a culture of safety, accountability, and passion.

Schedule Expectations:

This role requires a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays. Shifts may vary based on operational needs, and reliability is essential.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a mission-driven team making a real impact.
• Work hands-on with animals in a dynamic, engaging environment.
• Grow your career in animal care, education, and conservation.
• Create meaningful experiences for guests every day.