Animal Health Lead Zookeeper

Animal Health Lead Zookeeper

The Virginia Zoo is seeking an Animal Health Lead Zookeeper to join our expanding animal health team. The growing department includes a Senior Director of Animal Health, two associate veterinarians, an office manager/veterinary technician, two veterinary technicians, an Animal Health Lead Zookeeper, and two Animal Health Keepers. This position supports the department's continued expansion.

The Lead Keeper is responsible for managing daily operations of the zoo's commissary and the animal hospital's husbandry and quarantine care. They will be managing two keepers. They report directly to the Programs Manager of the Animal Wellness Campus. This position offers an opportunity to support the nutrition, care, and welfare of a diverse animal collection within a collaborative, progressive animal health team.

Located just steps from the Chesapeake Bay—with kayak access outside our fence—and only 30 minutes from the oceanfront and three hours from the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Virginia Zoo offers both a meaningful career and an excellent quality of life.

Department Hiring Salary Range: $47,692.79 - $54,728.58

Essential Functions

• Commisary Management
  • Prepare specialized animal diets according to detailed instructions and schedules.
  • Measure, chop, grind, and portion food using commercial kitchen equipment.
  • Deliver prepared diets to designated animal care areas.
  • Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of all commissary facilities, vehicles, and equipment.
  • Receive, inspect, and properly store food and supply deliveries in compliance with industry and regulatory standards.
  • Monitor inventory levels and order supplies as needed to maintain adequate stock.
  • Rotate inventory and dispose of expired or spoiled products.
  • Maintain accurate records of food usage, inventory, deliveries, and supply acquisition.
  • Conduct or obtain regular food quality analyses and review vendor reports.
  • Communicate dietary updates, changes, and logistics with veterinary and animal management staff.
  • Coordinate browse acquisition with the Browse Coordinator.
  • Update and maintain diet records, MSDS documents, and safety inspection logs.
  • Ensure compliance with USDA, AZA, HACCP, and Virginia Zoo food safety and biosecurity protocols.
  • Operate equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and other commissary machinery.
• Leadership & Administrative Responsibilities
  • Train new and current staff and volunteers in commissary procedures, safety protocols, and workflow standards.
  • Communicate regularly with vendors regarding supplies, quality control, and budgeting needs.
  • Assist with creating, updating, and implementing Standard Operating Procedures.
  • Provide monthly updates to city finance on supply acquisition, usage, and budget management.
  • Support consistent, clear communication between the commissary, veterinary team, and animal care staff.
• Quarantine & Hospital Support
  • Oversee commissary services supporting quarantine and hospital operations.
  • Collaborate with veterinary staff to ensure diets, supplies, and records for hospitalized or quarantined animals are accurate and up to date.
  • Assist with logistics, recordkeeping, and coordination for animals under veterinary care.

Education/Experience

Work requires broad knowledge in a general profession or technical field. Knowledge is normally acquired through four years of college resulting in a Bachelor's degree or equivalent. Five years of experience as a zookeeper or exotic animal care professional. Preferred Education/Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in an AZA zoo commissary
• Bachelor's degree in a science or nutrition program
• Proven interest in animal nutrition (completion of nutrition courses and/or workshops)
• Prior attendance at Nutrition Advisory Group conferences
• Minimum of 5 years zookeeper experience at an AZA facility.
• Intermediate level of knowledge in zoological animal nutrition and dietary needs.
• Ability to follow detailed diet instructions accurately.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Knowledge of food safety and storage procedures following USDA, AZA, and HACCP requirements.
• Ability to manage a team.
• Proficiency in basic computer software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, inventory systems).
• Physical ability to lift/move items up to 50 lbs regularly.
• Flexibility to work weekends, holidays, and early hours.

Additional Information & Requirements

Work hours: Schedule subject to department needs. Currently Tuesday through Saturday 7 am to 4 pm. Work location: Virginia Zoological Park, 3500 Granby Street, Norfolk 23504