Job Description:

• 1) Feeds, waters, and cleans quarters of animals and birds in zoo, circus, or menagerie: Prepares food for charges by chopping or grinding meat, fish, fruit, or vegetables; mixing prepared, dry, or liquid commercial feeds; or unbaling forage grasses.

• 2) Adds vitamins or medication to food as prescribed by VETERINARIAN.

• 3) Fills water containers and places food in cages as specified.

• 4) Cleans animals' quarters, using rake, water hose, and disinfectant.

• 5) Observes animals to detect illnesses and injuries and notifies ANIMAL KEEPER, HEAD or VETERINARIAN of findings.

• 6) Transfers animals from one enclosure to another for purposes such as breeding, giving birth, rearrangement of exhibits, or shipping.

• 7) Sets temperature and humidity controls of quarters as specified.

• 8) Answers visitors' questions concerning animals' habits or zoo operations.

• 9) Bathes and grooms animals as required.

• 10) May assist VETERINARIAN in treatment of animals for illnesses and injuries.

• 11) May assist ANIMAL TRAINER or instructor in presentation of programs, shows, or lectures.

• 12) May assist maintenance staff in cleaning zoo facilities.

• 13) May be designated according to animal cared for as Bear Keeper; Elephant Keeper; Monkey Keeper; or according to species as Bird Keeper; Mammal Keeper.

• 14) May direct activities of other workers.