Wild Encounters Seasonal Keeper

Wild Encounters Seasonal Keeper

Job Title: Seasonal Animal Keeper

Department: Wild Encounters Date Written: 1/19/2026

Reports To: Area Supervisor Status: Seasonal

Supervises: N/A Pay Rate (hourly): $11.25

Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Zoo Knoxville is part of the largest conservation movement on the planet. Zoo Knoxville is home to approximately 1400 animals representing more than 180 species. Driven by our mission to inspire action for wildlife and wild places, we serve more than 500,000 annual visitors, provide educational outreach to tens of thousands of students, and directly support global species conservation.

At its core, Zoo Knoxville values animal care and wellbeing and strives to provide a fun and educational environment that is inclusive and welcoming for all.

SUMMARY OF POSITION: This is a Seasonal Keeper position that reports directly to the area supervisor. This role is responsible for a wide variety of tasks involving the husbandry of the area species, the daily upkeep of staff and guest areas, and interpretation with zoo guests. The individual must be able to carry out the position's duties as described below and comply with Zoo Knoxville policies and procedures as they appear in the Employee Handbook as well as follow departmental protocols.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• As a member of the Animal Care Team, exemplify Zoo Knoxville’s core values, demonstrate a commitment to growth for oneself, and provide the highest level of wellbeing for animals.
• Administer the sale of tickets to paid animal experience.
• Provide excellent guest experience within our paid and unpaid animal experiences (Budgie Landing, Kids Cove Contact Yard, Tortoise Trail, Ostrich Feeding, Giraffe Feeding Platform, and as a Rhino Encounter Host) by engaging with guests in a courteous and professional manner.
• Manage and monitor guest flow and interactions for the safety of the guests, staff, and animals.
• Observe animals in the department areas daily for reproductive behavior, abnormal behavior, compatibility issues, or potential health problems, reporting these to the area keepers and supervisor.
• Prepare, distribute, and keep records of animal enrichment as outlined by enrichment protocols.
• Train animals using positive reinforcement techniques as directed by the supervisor.
• Maintain daily reports, logs, research, medical, and reproductive records and work orders.
• Be knowledgeable of natural history, conservation status, care, and well-being practices relevant to the assigned area.
• Collaborate with other departments to promote the zoo’s mission by participating in keeper chats, area tours, and media events.
• Under supervisor’s guidance, maintain the upkeep of all department facilities including animal enclosures, staff spaces, and guest areas while following safety protocols. In the event of an immediate safety risk, ensure guest, staff, and animal safety first, then report the issue for resolution.
• Provide daily husbandry for assigned animals in the department as requested by area supervisor, following all departmental protocols and procedures.
• Assist supervisor in the training of new staff, volunteers, and interns with regards to animal routines, husbandry, and facility maintenance as requested.
• Assume any leadership duties in the absence of the supervisor, when requested.
• Participate in professional training and development opportunities provided, as directed by the supervisor.
• Any other duties as requested by the supervisor.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Six months to one year of experience working with animals in some capacity is preferred. Examples include working with animals at veterinary clinics, pet stores, on farms, or as an intern or volunteer at a zoo.
• Applicants must be at least 18 years of age with valid state-issued identification.
• Must be physically able to: work in extreme temperatures (both inside and outside) and inclement weather conditions, walk an average of 10 miles per day, stand 90% of the time, lifting and carrying up to 60 pounds for a distance of 25 feet; performing tasks in an environment that requires repeatedly stooping, bending, climbing, while working in…