Job Opportunity at the ABQ BioPark: 
Assistant Zookeeper II (Reptiles)

The successful candidate will help the Reptile and Amphibian team provide the highest level of care for the Reptile and Amphibian collection. A strong commitment to conservation and understanding of animal well-being is paramount. This position reports to the Supervisor of Herpetology and is part of the Herpetology Department. 

The ABQ BioPark consists of the Zoo, Aquarium and Botanic Garden and Tingley Beach.

This position is employed through a temporary staffing agency, not the City of Albuquerque, and is located at the ABQ BioPark. This full-time position is limited to a two-year term.

The Assistant Zookeeper II duties may include, but are not limited to:

• Assist zookeepers in the day-to-day care of the Reptile and Amphibian collection. 
• Feed and water animals as directed.
• Prepare diets for animals.
• Clean and maintain assigned animal areas and workspaces as directed and according to established BioPark guidelines.
• Help maintain cleanliness of assigned areas.
• Observe and assist animal training sessions.  
• Participate in Guest Engagement Moments presentations around the zoo.
• Provide interpretation to guests during animal encounters and training sessions.

A Successful Assistant Zookeeper will:

• Be familiar with the purpose and importance of zoos and aquariums.
• Prioritize safety and respect and follow protocols.
• Be able to quickly adapt to change during the workday.
• Be motivated to work independently as well as in a fast-paced team environment.
• Have a friendly and open personality and enjoy working with a diverse cross section of individuals.
• Be motivated, hard-working, and dependable.
• Be comfortable working outdoors for several hours a day in variable weather conditions.

Qualifications

• Experience in reptile/amphibian care or other animal husbandry is preferred, but not necessary.
• Applicants must be 18 years or older and be physically able to lift or move up to 50 pounds (feed bags, perching and equipment). 
• Candidates must pass a security background check to be hired.
• Applicants must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation (standing, walking, reaching, bending, squatting, kneeling for prolonged periods of time; heavy, moderate or light lifting, pulling, and pushing).
• Applicants must be able to work around a variety of animals, the public, extreme heat, noise, dust, insects, and in inclement weather conditions.

Work Schedule

Full-time; five days on, two days off. Works weekends. Hours from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Occasional holidays and evening work may be required.

Pay Rate

$12.50/hr. This position is employed through a temporary staffing agency, not the City of Albuquerque.

To Apply:

Please provide a cover letter, résumé, and contact information for three references. Send this information to [email protected].with the subject line Application for Assistant Zookeeper II Reptiles with Albuquerque BioPark. Open until filled.

Interviews will consist of an in-person interview and a tour of the assigned work area.