Jobs at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

Supports sustainability and behavior-change programs at a zoo by assisting with recycling, composting, waste reduction, hydroponics, mealworm colony care, data collection, conservation education, guest engagement, outreach, and environmental campaigns. The role involves indoor and outdoor hands-on work, public communication, and encouraging sustainable behaviors among guests, staff, volunteers, and program participants.

Lead daily husbandry, behavioral training, habitat management, medical procedures, guest engagement, and safety for diverse exotic animals. Mentor keepers, interns, volunteers, and new staff; enforce SOPs, AZA accreditation, USDA standards, and animal-training protocols. Support scheduling, supplies, projects, communications, and emergencies while serving as a liaison between management and keeper staff. Work with dangerous and venomous species in demanding outdoor conditions, including weekends and holidays.

Lead and mentor animal care staff to provide daily husbandry, training, behavioral management, habitat maintenance, and guest-facing programs for African Safari animals (giraffe, painted dogs, hoofstock, birds). Ensure AZA/USDA standards, safety protocols, staff training, project leadership, and emergency response while performing physical animal care duties and maintaining animal and habitat wellbeing.