Overview
Experienced Zookeeper Jobs in Utica, MI at LegaSea Aquarium & The Reptarium
Job Overview
Are you an experienced zookeeper with a passion for herpetology and exotic animal care? LegaSea Aquarium & The Reptarium—Michigan’s premier 30,000-square-foot, ZAA-accredited interactive zoo and aquarium in Utica, MI—is seeking a dedicated, energetic Experienced Zookeeper to join our team.
In this hands-on role, you will lead daily animal husbandry, habitat maintenance, and behavior monitoring across our diverse collection, with a primary focus on reptilian species including large pythons, large monitors, crocodilians, and exotic lizards. Working in a fast-paced, ZAA-certified environment, you will combine high-level physical handling and welfare standards with public engagement and conservation education.
Key Responsibilities
- Animal Husbandry & Care: Prepare and deliver species-specific daily diet plans, nutritional supplements, and hydration routines adhering to ZAA welfare standards.
- Health & Behavioral Monitoring: Observe daily animal health, behavior, and physical condition; maintain accurate records of dietary intake, shedding, weight, and medical observations.
- Specialized Reptile Handling: Safely perform restraint, medical assistance, and transport techniques for large reptiles, including crocodilians, large monitors, and giant snakes, prioritizing safety and minimal animal stress.
- Habitat & Enclosure Maintenance: Maintain, sanitize, and enrich naturalistic terrestrial, aquatic, and humid micro-environments; conduct regular safety checks on enclosure mechanics and heating elements.
- Public Engagement & Education: Conduct engaging daily public presentations and guest interactions, sharing passion and accurate biological facts to inspire conservation action.
- Regulatory Compliance: Uphold strictly enforced facility safety protocols, emergency guidelines, and local, state, and federal animal care regulations.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Work Experience: Proven professional experience as a zookeeper, herpetologist, or animal care specialist.
- Specialized Expertise: Direct, hands-on experience handling and caring for diverse reptile species, specifically large snakes, crocodilians, and monitor lizards.
- Technical Skills: Strong understanding of reptilian physiology, environmental controls (lighting, temperature gradients, humidity), diet formulation, and proper physical restraint techniques.
- Teamwork & Communication: Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with aquarists, veterinary staff, and guest services personnel.
Physical Requirements & Working Conditions
- Ability to regularly lift 50+ lbs, bend, stoop, crawl, climb, and reach overhead.
- Comfort working in elevated temperatures, high humidity, and around aquatic/wet environments.
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during shift hours.
- Availability to work weekends, holidays, and flexible shifts as animal care needs dictate.
Ability to Commute:
- Utica, MI 48317 (Required)
Work Location: In person
Title: Experienced Zookeeper
Company: LegaSea Aquarium & The Reptarium
Location: Utica, MI
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