Zookeeper - Children's Zoo & Penguins

SUMMARY: Zookeepers are responsible for performing a variety of duties related to the care and welfare of the animals in the Children’s Zoo/Penguins Area. This collection includes an assortment of domestic farm animals (including equids), waterfowl, red pandas, prairie dogs, and will also include a colony of African penguins with the opening of a new African Experience exhibit in spring 2026. The duties of this area include cleaning animal spaces, preparing and feeding diets, providing and evaluating enrichment, observing animals and maintaining records. This position requires a work schedule of 7am-3:30pm or 10:30am – 7pm in the busy season and 7:30am-4:30pm in the quiet season. This position has 2 days off during the week and you must be able to regularly work weekends and holidays, as well as overtime when needed.

WHO WE ARE

Zoo New England's mission is to inspire people to protect and sustain the natural world for future generations by creating fun and engaging experiences that integrate wildlife and conservation programs, research, and education. Zoo New England manages and operates both Franklin Park Zoo in Boston and Stone Zoo in Stoneham, Massachusetts, and attracts over 1 million guests. We are in an exciting growth phase, with many new projects, exhibits and events. You’ll be part of the Animal Care Team –the largest department in the zoo, responsible for the well-being of thousands of animals, of hundreds of species - many of which are endangered in the wild. Zoo New England hosts a diversity of passionate people and is a place where you can make a difference, to care for animals and to secure a future for wildlife.

 WHO YOU ARE  

Attention to detail: Provide exceptional care by ensuring all of the animals’ needs are met and observing closely for signs of illness or injury.

Friendly and Welcoming: Provide great customer service to internal and external guests, answering questions, performing public talks and participating in behind-the-scenes tours in a courteous and positive way.

Excellent communicator: Communicate clearly and thoroughly to supervisors and coworkers. Maintain thorough records.

Excellent time management: Be punctual and manage your time to stay within schedule, completing tasks and duties in a timely manner. Work independently after being trained.

Reliable and Thorough: Maintain your assigned area to a high standard, exceeding USDA and AZA standards. Provide enrichment according to the guidelines and best practices.

 YOUR PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Works safely around animals of a variety of taxa, following standard operation procedures, institutional and departmental policies and in compliance with USDA and AZA guidelines.

Provide fresh food and water daily to animals in a species-specific manner and monitor consumption. Clean and maintain exhibits, holding and public spaces and keeper work areas to a high standard. Provide supplements, medication and goal-based enrichment as required.

Interact with guests in a friendly manner. Participate in keeper chats and public presentations.

Observe and report signs of health and individual/species behavior and record on ZIMS once trained.
Helps maintain charts, census forms, calendars, reports, logs as needed.

REQUIREMENTS / QUALIFICATIONS

High School diploma or GED. Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Zoology or related field preferred.

TB tested negative within the last 12 months before starting and fully vaccinated for COVID-19.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills, knowledge or ability to use Microsoft Office products and use of 2-way radios.

Must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver's license with a safe driving history.

Must be physically able to work on their feet for long periods and lift over 50lbs.

Must have the ability to work for extended periods in harsh climatic conditions.

Must be able to function independently and as a member of a team.

Must be able to work weekends, holidays and overtime.

Penguin experience preferred, with desired skills in penguin handling, restraint, and breeding experience.

BENEFITS  

Medical, dental, and vision HMO plans for you and eligible dependents.

9 paid holidays and 6 personal holidays.

Accrue 10 vacation days and 12 days of sick leave your first year.

Flexible Spending Account (FSA).

Employee Assistance Program (EAP). 

Free zoo membership that includes zoo admission and discounts after 90 days.

Discounts and perks at ZNE institutions and other cultural organizations in MA.

Free staff parking.

401 Retirement Plan after 6 months

SELECTION PROCESS

ZNE values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity. The zoo encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, 2SLGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experiences.

Zoo New England is an Equal Opportunity Employer by Choice

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