Ungulate Keeper

Ungulate Keeper

Position Overview

This is a full‑time staff position responsible for the daily animal husbandry of the Ungulate Department. Works independently and in a team environment to apply highest standards of animal care, enrichment, and training. Interacts with the public to educate them about the collection and conservation concerns, providing keeper talks and encounters. Works closely with the vet staff to maintain animals’ good health and well‑being.

Position Goal

To provide exceptional animal care to the park’s collection while creating a memorable and fun guest experience. The keeper is the first line of defense in assuring animal and guest safety. The keeper is the expert on the well‑being and needs of each of the animals in the department’s collection.

• Performs general daily care of the animals in assigned exhibit and holding areas. Maintains exhibits and holding areas in a clean and presentable condition at all times.
• Carefully observes the animal collection for signs of illness or injury and reports problems to the department Supervisor.
• Works closely with the vet staff to diagnose and treat medical needs of the collection. Assists with examinations, take downs and procedures. Administers prescribed treatments.
• Prepares food in accordance with dietary requirements and restrictions.
• Provides enrichment as agreed to by department management.
• Trains animal collection as possible and for the purpose of educating and entertaining park guests.
• Abides by department or species’ protocols to assure the highest level of keeper and public safety.
• Conducts keeper talks and animal encounters as scheduled by guest services.
• Maintains accurate and complete records as required by department.
• Performs restraint, crating/uncrating, and general transport of animals as needed.
• Participates in all zoo activities and events, for example, shows and after‑hour fundraisers, as required by management.
• Assists in data collection for approved research projects.
• Assists department supervisor as needed.
• Responds to department emergencies to maintain guest and animal safety.
• Able to pass a drug test, including marijuana
  , and annual tuberculosis test
• Must have common sense and be friendly
• Ability to operate RTVs, trucks, and other vehicles on all terrain.
• Able to endure extreme weather conditions
• Able to work in team and independently as needed
• Comfortable in utilizing a firearm, training will be given
• Able to bend, stoop, crawl and walk on uneven surfaces. Able to climb ladders, stairs, and maneuver on cat walks.
• Schedule is on‑site 4 days a week, with 10‑hour shifts or 5 days a week, with 8‑hour shifts. Schedule is subject to change.
• High school diploma or equivalent degree is required. Preferred Bachelor’s Degree in a zoological or related field.
• Candidates must agree to a background check
• Valid driver’s license for a minimum of three years with a clean driving record
• Health and dental benefits after 60 days
• Free membership with reciprocal zoo
• 40% off in Restaurant and Gift Shop
• Sick leave and paid time off
• Vet and vehicle services at cost
• Free animal encounters
• Employee parties throughout the year

Wildlife Safari offers health insurance, dental, 401(k) with match up to 3%, supplemental insurance, paid time off, and vet and vehicle services at cost.

Wildlife Safari
1790 Safari Road P.O. Box 1600
Winston, OR 97496
Phone: 541‑679‑6761