Primate Keeper; Temporary

Mission

Nashville Zoo is dedicated to inspiring a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation, and leadership. With a diverse collection of animals and a commitment to wildlife preservation, we provide engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.

Primate Keeper

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage – including medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – confidential support services for mental, emotional, and financial well‑being.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching – helping you build a secure future while you make a meaningful impact today.
• Generous paid time off and sick leave – because rest and recovery are vital.
• Exclusive zoo perks – enjoy discounts on park experiences, retail, and food services, plus complimentary membership benefits.
• A collaborative and inclusive culture – be part of a diverse team where your voice matters, your growth is nurtured, and collaboration thrives across all departments.
• AZA-accredited facility – Nashville Zoo is committed to top-tier animal care, ethics, and global conservation efforts.

Under general supervision by Primate Supervisor, keepers perform a wide range of functions in the Mammal Department at the Nashville Zoo ir primary responsibilities include husbandry of assigned collection as well as maintaining and cleaning animal exhibits, yards, night enclosures, and contiguous areas, operant conditioning of collection for husbandry behaviors and providing enrichment.

• Provides care (prepares diets for, feeds and cleans) for animals and maintains habitats, related structures, and surrounding non-public areas.
• Perform daily observation of animals to identify normal and abnormal behaviors related to husbandry/health issues; coordinate with senior staff on animal training programs to facilitate husbandry behaviors.
• Communicate questions or concerns regarding medical/health issues of specimens in collection to supervisor. Assist with treatment as directed, including administering medication.
• Provides behavioral and psychological enrichment for animals.
• Communicate with visitors as needed for educational (delivers public talks/demos) and behavioral/safety purposes.
• Disposes of trash and debris in zoo.
• Maintains landscaping and grounds for and around habitats.
• Services and maintains tools, equipment and facilities to ensure safe use (includes opening and closing of facilities).
• Follows all safety rules and regulations, policies and procedures. Attends regular safety meetings.
• Assists with training for new keepers or seasonal staff as assigned.
• Documents observations and information on animal health, behavior, diet, enrichment, and facilities for department records.
• Assists with veterinary procedures if needed. Performs basic health care procedures as assigned.
• Demonstrate a daily commitment to Nashville Zoo’s mission and values.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.

• Skill in the use and maintenance of tools and equipment.
• Ability to operate a motor vehicle safely.
• Knowledge of animal diet preparation, general biology, and behavior.
• Knowledge of maintenance methods and materials.
• Ability to receive, understand, and carry out verbal and written instruction, direction, and assignments.
• Ability to perform physical work activities in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to communicate and cooperate with employees and to deal with the public in an effective and positive manner.
• Ability to self-direct work tasks while ensuring safety and productivity.

• Applicants must have a minimum of 2 years of full-time, paid, exotic animal experience, with at least 1 year of Primate intensive experience. Experience in an AZA accredited zoo is preferred.
• Applicants must have a college degree (Associates or Bachelors) in an applicable field:
  Animal Science, Biology, Zoology, etc. or a combination of education and experience.
• Applicants must possess a valid driver’s license.

• This is an outdoor position; applicants will work outside year round in inclement weather conditions such as extreme high/low temperatures,…