Zookeeper/Parks & Recreation Aide 6

TRAILSIDE MUSEUMS & ZOO: Trailside is located along an original section of the Appalachian Trail. Founded in 1927, it is the first self-guided nature trail established to guide visitors in learning about local ecology, geology and history. Trailside began with an innovative founding vision: “the best way to learn about nature is to be in nature and the best way to enjoy nature is to have a friendly, knowledgeable voice as your guide”. To this day, little signs along the trail tell local natural history stories. For nearly 100 years, Trailside has been led by scientist directors and a small staff caring for non-releasable native wildlife and the landscape, museums, visitors and programming. Trailside continues to evolve in exhibit expansion and animal policy, plant communities and philosophy. https://www.trailsidemuseumsandzoo.org/  

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Under the general supervision of the Head Keeper and higher-level personnel, the incumbent will: 

• Perform daily animal husbandry for our collection of live animals 
•  Diet preparation and administering of medication 
• Observation and reporting of animal behavior 
• Implement approved enrichment and operant training sessions for applicable animals 
• Maintain records on health, behavior, enrichment and other relevant data 
• Provide informal and formal education programs utilizing biofacts and education animals 
• Assist in capture, restraint, and veterinary procedures of zoo animals 
• Assist in training and supervision of interns and new staff 
• General exhibit maintenance including shoveling snow and invasive species management 
• Interact with patrons on the zoo trail system 
• Assist with daily operations of the zoo 

OPERATING NEEDS: 

• BA/BS or higher degree from an accredited college or university in zoology, biology, or related discipline 
• Previous work in a zoological setting strongly preferred. 
• Must possess excellent communication and observation skills and a strong work ethic 
• Ability to be a team player capable of positive interactions with coworkers, interns, volunteers, and visitors 
• Ability to perform medium to heavy physical labor and work in all weather 
• Applicants must have a valid New York State driver’s license and be available to work weekends and holidays. 
• The candidate will be offered/encouraged to receive the pre-exposure rabies vaccine for protection when handling mammalian wildlife. 

SCHEDULE: 40 hours per week; 8 hour work day 

START DATE: Immediately

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Complete a NY State OPRHP Employment Application (available online at or in all park offices).Palisades Region (ny.gov) Submit the Employment Application along with your resume and cover letter to Melissa Gillmer, Head of Keeping, Melissa.Gillmer@parks.ny.gov  or by mail to PO Box 427, Bear Mountain, NY 10911.

Application Deadline: 2/9/2024