Temporary Texas Kangaroo Rat Keeper

The Texas Kangaroo Rat Keeper position is responsible for maintaining and caring for animals within the Texas Native Wildlife Centers, primarily focusing on the Texas Kangaroo Rat program, and assisting veterinary staff as needed.

Requirements

• Provide necessary husbandry parameters and appropriate environments for species in assigned section
• Keep all animal enclosures clean
• Ensure all enclosures and locks are checked for security purposes daily
• Provide backup coverage as relief keeper
• Carry out animal diet directives from management
• Feed animals as directed, remove uneaten food items, and record shed cycles
• Monitor health and behavior of animals daily
• Maintain all animal records
• Report abnormal feeding patterns
• Pair animals for breeding and monitor/record reproductive behavior
• Check out with supervisor before leaving at the end of the day
• Weigh animals on a regular basis
• Initiate animal training and enrichment directives
• Assist in research and field activities as directed
• Maintain safe and clutter-free work environment
• Keep all work areas and building parameter clean and free of debris
• Monitor building temperatures and equipment
• Act in a professional and courteous manner with coworkers and zoo visitors
• Present keeper talks and tours as scheduled
• Manage time appropriately to complete daily routine and work on extra projects
• Hang supplemental lighting at an appropriate distance from animal
• Store and clean animal equipment properly after use
• Maintain biosecurity by following SOPs
• Fulfill other duties as assigned in Animal Programs Keeper Job Description

Benefits

• Paid 400 hours of work in 10 weeks
• Opportunity to work with a variety of animals, including Texas Kangaroo Rats