City of Los Angeles- Animal Keeper 2-17-26

For additional information and FAQs regarding the City's hiring process, please go to: https://per.lacity.org/faqs/employment-testing-process.html
ANIMAL KEEPER
Class Code: 4304
Open Date: 02-13-26
(Exam Open to All)
ANNUAL SALARY
$57,378 to $83,812
NOTE:
Annual salary is at the start of the pay range. The current salary range is subject to change. Please confirm the starting salary with the hiring department before accepting a job offer.
DUTIES
An Animal Keeper cares for exotic mammals, birds, and reptiles (including venomous varieties) at the Los Angeles Zoo; observes and reports on animal behavior and condition
for illnesses, compatibility, imminent birth and other signs reflecting the animal's well-being; prepares food for animals as instructed; maintains the exhibit premises in a clean
and aesthetically pleasing manner; answers questions about animals from the general public; may make educational and other presentations before groups, and on radio and
television; and may provide training and supervision to volunteers and students in caring for animals.
REQUIREMENTS/MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
1. The equivalent of one year of full-time paid experience (2,080 hours) in the care and maintenance of exotic animals with a facility similar to the Los Angeles Zoo whose
core function is the exhibition of a variety of exotic animals; or
2. (a) Successful completion of the Animal Keeper Training program conducted by the Los Angeles Zoo; or
(b) An equivalent program at an accredited school or college providing classroom and field work on the basic structure and function of exotic animals; basic nutritional
requirements; recognition of the symptoms of animal diseases; sanitation measures; and aspects of animal behavior.
PROCESS NOTES
1. Exotic animals are any species that are not domestic such as common pets or farm animals.
2. Applicants filing under Requirement #2a or #2b, must attach a copy of their Certificate of Completion or transcripts at the time of filing. Applicants who fail to attach their
Certification or transcripts at the time of filing will not be considered further in this examination.
a. Individuals within six months of completing the accredited program may apply. However, candidates cannot be appointed until they submit proof of having completed
the program. Applicants must list their anticipated completion date in the Education section of the on-line application.
3. An Animal Keeper may be exposed to personal danger during routine daily duties. An Animal Keeper may be exposed to diseased and injured animals and to dangerous
chemicals used in the daily care of animals and enclosures.
4. Animal Keepers must be available to work weekends and holidays.
5. Animal Keeper assignments may be rotated among various animal “strings” to meet the needs of the Zoo.
6. Please note that qualifying education must be from a college or university accredited by a City of Los Angeles recognized agency. A list of approved accrediting agencies
can be found at https://personnel.lacity.gov/Accredited%20Institutions%2008-21-08.pdf.
7. As a condition of employment, a valid Class C driver’s license issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is required. Applicants will be disqualified and
candidates will not be eligible for hire if their DMV record within the last 36 months reflects three or more moving violations and/or at-fault accidents, or a conviction of a
major moving violation such as DUI or DWI in any state or jurisdiction. Notice of disqualification or ineligibility for hire may be issued by the City of Los Angeles at any time
before a final job offer is extended.
8. For Internal Use Only: Licensing verification will occur at the time of filing.
SELECTIVE CERTIFICATION
In accordance with Charter Section 1010 (b) and Civil Service Rule 5.31, selective certification will be used for some positions that require special skills and/or training in one or
more of the following areas. Only persons possessing the following as of the close of the filing period may be considered for appointment to fill such positions.
1. Six months of full-time paid experience in the care of reptiles, amphibians, fish and/or invertebrate, including hands–on work or training in working with venomous and/or
poisonous species, at an accredited or licensed facility such as a college, venom laboratory, zoo, or aquarium.
2. Six months of full-time paid experience in training birds for free-flight behaviors and/or falconry experience.
3. Six months of full-time paid experience in the care of exotic birds, including experience with propagation, artificial incubation of eggs and/or hand-rearing of chicks, at a
zoo, aquarium or other accredited or licensed public or private facility.
4. Six months of full-time paid experience working with and/or training African and/or Asian elephants at a zoo, aquarium or other professional accredited or licensed public
or private facility.
5. Six months of full-time paid experience in designing and refining enrichment furniture/devices for exotic animals.
6. Six months of full-time paid experience or one year of part-time paid experience as a Nutrition Center or Commissary keeper at a zoo, aquarium, or other accredited or
licensed public or private facility.
Applicants who wish to be considered for any of the above selective certification area(s) must respond to the selective certification question(s) located within the Supplemental
Questions section of the on-line application at the time of filing. Responses to the selective certification question(s) will be submitted to an expert review panel for evaluation for
those candidates who meet the minimum requirements and are invited to participate in the selection process. The expert review panel will determine if a candidate meets the
selective certification criteria based on an assessment of the candidate’s response(s) to the question(s). Applicants who fail to provide a response to the selective certification
question(s) at the time of filing will not be considered further for selective certification.
Class Code 4304. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .02-13-26

WHERE TO APPLY
Applications will only be accepted on-line. When you are viewing the on-line job bulletin of your choice, simply scroll to the top of the page and
select the “Apply” icon. On-line job bulletins are also available at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/lacity.
NOTE:
Applicants are urged to apply early to ensure you have time to resolve any technical issues you may encounter.

APPLICATION DEADLINE
Applications must be received by THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2026.
In accordance with Civil Service Rule 4.2, all applicants who apply may not be tested in this examination. To meet anticipated hiring needs, only a limited
number of qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the selection process in the following order: 1) Applicants currently employed by the City of
Los Angeles who meet the minimum requirements, or are on a reserve list; 2) Remaining applicants who meet the minimum requirements in sufficient
numbers to meet hiring needs based on a random sampling of those qualified candidates. Applications submitted during the filing period may be kept on
file in the event that additional applicants need to be tested to meet hiring needs.
SELECTION PROCESS
Examination Weights: Essay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Advisory
Interview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100%
The examination will consist entirely of an evaluation of professional and personal qualifications by interview. In the interview, the following competencies
may be evaluated: Judgment and Decision Making; Attention to Detail; Interpersonal Skills; Teamwork; Oral Communication; Written Communication;
Safety Focus, including knowledge of: common hazards of working with zoo animals, such as the recognition of dangerous behavior; exhibit maintenance
assessment and enclosure management, such as the recognition of failures in containment or identification of potential escape routes; Job Knowledge,
including knowledge of: basic animal behaviors, such as natural instinct, flight distance, nocturnal and diurnal behavior, and/or social or environmental
adaptations; behavioral enrichment techniques and their purpose as they relate to animal care; techniques used to train animals such as operant
conditioning; and other necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Additional job analysis information can be obtained by going to https://per.lacity.org/jobs/job-analyses.cfm and clicking on Competencies under Animal
Keeper.
Prior to the interview, candidates will be required to prepare some written material related to the duties and responsibilities of an Animal Keeper. This
essay material will not be separately scored, but will be presented to the interview board for review and consideration, which may include discussion, in
the overall evaluation of the candidate. Those who do not complete the advisory essay will not be invited to the interview and will be considered to have
failed the entire examination. To be considered complete, the advisory essay must include a substantive response for each question or problem included
in the advisory essay for which a candidate is required to provide an answer. Please note that candidates must complete the advisory essay and meet the
minimum qualifications as stated on this bulletin in order to be considered further in the examination process.
The advisory essay will be administered on-line. Candidates invited to participate in the examination will receive an e-mail from the City of Los Angeles
outlining the specific steps needed to complete the on-line advisory essay. Candidates will be required to complete the on-line advisory essay between
MONDAY, APRIL 6, 2026 and MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2026. Candidates who fail to complete the advisory essay as instructed may be disqualified.
Candidates will be notified later by e-mail of the date, time, and location of the interview, which may be held in Los Angeles or on-line. It is anticipated that
interviews will begin during the period of MONDAY, MAY 4, 2026 to FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2026.
NOTES:
1. This examination is based on a validation study.
2. As a covered entity under the Fair Employment and Housing Act and Title II

Ojai Raptor Center - Raptor Trainer and Educator 2/17/26
Location: Ojai, CA (In-Person)
Reports to: Education Program Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time, Non-exempt
Salary: Starting hourly rate commensurate with experience (+/- $29 p.h)
Schedule: 40 hours per week, including weekends and occasional holiday scheduling.
Closing Date: February 15, 2026

ABOUT US
Ojai Raptor Center (ORC) is a nonprofit wildlife rehabilitation organization dedicated to the rescue,
rehabilitation, and release of native wildlife, focusing on birds of prey. Located in Ojai, California, ORC also
provides environmental education to inspire conservation and stewardship and supports raptor conservation
through research and community engagement. ORC serves thousands of community members annually through
education programs, tours, and outreach initiatives, and operates as a collaborative, mission-driven workplace.

POSITION SUMMARY
The Raptor Trainer and Educator is responsible for the care and training of the ambassador bird collection, the
maintenance and cleaning of ambassador aviaries and holding areas, and the presentation of high-quality
informal and formal educational messaging. This position requires strong, respectful working relationships with
both the ambassadors and human co-workers. Team members coordinate daily work activities with the
overarching goal of providing the highest level of health and welfare for the raptors in the collection. This is a
hands-on role suited to a detail-oriented, compassionate professional who is enthusiastic about choice-based
training and comfortable presenting to guests of all ages in a professional, engaging manner with a shared vision
to expand and strengthen the educational experiences that support the organization’s mission.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Ambassador training and husbandry (75%)
• Develop and carry out training programs for ambassador animals in collaboration with the Education
Program Manager, ensuring that training goals align with current education programming, ambassador
capabilities, and overall departmental priorities.
• Conduct training using the least intrusive, most positive methods to influence behavior, with aversive
techniques considered only when necessary and appropriate.
• Prepare ambassador diets and train or supervise volunteers, interns, or other personnel in proper diet
preparation protocols.
• Observe ambassador health and behavior and promptly report concerns to the veterinarian and
appropriate staff. Ensure medications are refilled, administered, and documented as required.
• Develop and maintain enrichment for education ambassadors.
• Maintain clear and accurate documentation of training plans, progress notes, and significant changes in
ambassador behavior or readiness, using shared department systems, and communicate updates
regularly with relevant staff.
• Oversee mew cleaning and maintenance, including developing cleaning schedules and protocols, and
identifying repair or improvement projects.
• Manage daily diet records and maintain accurate online documentation.
• Train and guide volunteers and interns assisting with ambassador care, training, cleaning, maintenance,
enrichment, and related tasks, following established protocols and maintaining clear professional
boundaries and consistent communication with education staff.
• Participate in the assessment of current ambassadors and potential acquisitions.
• Identify maintenance and safety issues and help facilitate their resolution.
• In coordination with the staff veterinarian, manages regular health checks of education ambassadors.
• Participate in identifying volunteers to assist with ambassador care
Educational Programming (25%)
Educational programming content, learning objectives, and guest-facing messaging are developed
collaboratively within the education team, this position supports the delivery and implementation of those
programs.
• Participate in educational programming, including in-person tours and experiences, virtual programs,
and additional presentations as directed.
• Assist in editing educational materials as needed.
• Assist in the development and implementation of education outreach programming to communities and
schools.
• Assist with setup, teardown, and waiver coordination for private tours, including directing volunteers or
interns as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS
• Minimum of two years of experience in raptor husbandry, handling, and training, including
demonstrated success preparing birds for educational programs, demonstrations, or ambassador roles.
• Strong understanding of raptor natural history, species-specific behavior, welfare considerations, and
enrichment needs.
• Demonstrated commitment to choice-based, least-intrusive, and positive training methodologies.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage professionally with staff,
volunteers, and members of the public across a wide range of ages and backgrounds.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to maintain accurate records, follow
protocols, and manage daily responsibilities consistently.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team in a fast-paced, hands-on
environment that may at times be physically and mentally demanding.
• Proven ability to multitask, prioritize responsibilities, and adapt to changing needs while maintaining
high standards of animal care, safety, and professionalism.
• Experience training, supervising, or working effectively with volunteers or interns, and contributing to a
positive, respectful team culture.
• Strong customer service orientation and comfort interacting with visitors, donors, and program
participants in a public-facing setting.
• Proficiency with common computer applications, including Word, Excel, Adobe, and Google Workspace,
with the ability to learn and use organization-specific systems.
• Willingness to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by animal care and
program schedules.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable personal vehicle, and appropriate insurance.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORK ENVIRONMENT
Medium to heavy physical demands, including lifting up to 50 pounds occasionally, 10 – 25 pounds frequently
and up to 10 pounds constantly. Requires handling, using vision and hearing, and talking. Frequent standing,
walking, bending, lifting, sitting, reaching, pushing/pulling, balancing, and twisting and working on concrete
floors for extended periods. Exposure to zoonotic diseases, bites, scratches, dust, allergens, and outdoor
environmental conditions. Work is often fast-paced, detail-oriented, and occasionally stressful.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
This is a full-time, non-exempt position. Overtime is paid in accordance with California labor law. Compensation
is commensurate with experience.
Benefits include:
● Health Benefits: Access to comprehensive health plans.
● Retirement Plan: Enrollment in the CalSavers retirement program.
● Paid Time Off: Generous PTO, including sick time.
● Paid Holidays: Observance of five flexible paid holidays annually.
● Opportunities for professional development and continued learning.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Ojai Raptor Center is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an
inclusive environment for all employees, volunteers, and community members.
WORKPLACE CONDUCT
All staff are expected to maintain a positive and professional work environment through respectful
collaboration, accountability, and a shared commitment to ORC’s mission and values. All incidents, injuries, and
concerns must be reported in accordance with ORC’s policies and procedures.

APPLICATION PROCESS
Please submit the following with the subject line “Raptor Trainer and Educator” to
employment@ojairaptorcenter.org

CV or Resume
Two contactable professional references
Cover letter explaining your experience and fit for the position.

Safe Haven - Lead Animal Keeper - 2/4/26

Email: safehavenwildlife1@gmail.com
Phone: 7755387093

Full-Time Lead Animal Keeper
Starting Date: For immediate hire/start date negotiable
Hours per Week: 40
Salary: $20 per hour
Education Required: Some Undergraduate
Experience Required: at least 1 year
Location: 9605 State Route 400 (Imlay, Nevada)

Description
Safe Haven Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Northern Nevada, is currently interviewing for a full-time Lead Animal Keeper position. Accredited by GFAS, the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, Safe Haven provides lifelong care to abandoned and surrendered exotics. In addition to our mission of rescue, we also provide placement for retired animals from several Species Survival Plans, including the Cheetah and Snow Leopard Foundations.

Position Description:
The Lead Animal Keeper is responsible for assisting fellow lead keepers in the overall management and maintenance of the sanctuary, including staff, volunteers, animals, habitats, and buildings.  This position requires excellent communication and leadership skills.  Lead Animal Keepers report to the Executive Director.

Responsibilities:
Manage and assist with the daily care of animals and the sanctuary, including but not limited to:
• Coordinating and participating in habitat cleaning, repairs, and maintenance with other keepers and interns.
• Performing daily husbandry activities, including feedings, providing medications, operant conditioning, training and enrichment.
• Monitor and document daily observations regarding animal health, behavior, diet and enrichment.
• Meet regularly with staff and interns to ensure that tasks are completed, and following standard operational procedures, rules, regulations, and policies.
• Prepare daily reports to the Executive Director summarizing tasks completed.
•Training of new keepers and interns as assigned, and delegating tasks as needed.
• Assist as needed during veterinary visits.
• Participate in safe capture procedures.
• Service and maintain tools, equipment, and facilities following safety guidelines.
Interact with Sanctuary guests and the public, including but not limited to:
• Assign and provide informal educational tours to the public and ensure safety practices.
• Engage with visitors and provide accurate information regarding the Sanctuary, animals, habitats, conservation status, and animal care.

This position may at times be requested to perform other duties or special projects as needed.  All staff, interns and volunteers, must adhere to safety protocols and a no direct contact policy.

Minimum Qualifications:
Education & Formal Training:
• Bachelor's Degree in biology, animal science, zoology or related field strongly preferred.
Experience:
• At least one year of zoological or wildlife facility experience required.
• Previous leadership experience strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of animal husbandry, behavior, and procedures for proper care and training of exotic animals.
• Strong observational skills to recognize and evaluate conditions of animal health, diets, and behavior.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions, including procedures for the care and maintenance of animals, habitats, grounds, and tours.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills

Other Minimum Requirements:
• Must have own transportation and a valid driver's license.
• Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds and have sufficient mobility to ensure a safe work environment.
• Must be able to work in inclement weather.
• Work 8+ hour shifts, 5 days per week, including weekends and holidays.
• Must be willing to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, and Holidays, and be able to accommodate special events, emergencies, and animal care needs.
• 5-day work week with 2 consecutive days off.
• Full-time position, averaging 40 hours per week.
Benefits:
• 40-hour work week with two consecutive days off per week.
• 10 vacation days per year.
• Safe Haven is remotely located, and optional free housing is available, apart from monthly utilities.

Submitted materials will be reviewed, and a phone interview will be scheduled.  Applicants can submit a cover letter, resume, and two letters of recommendation to:
safehavenwildlife1@gmail.com (preferred contact method

Safe Haven - Temporary Animal Keeper Position - 2/4/26

Temporary Animal Keeper Position – Fulltime Six to Eight Months (Nevada) Safe Haven Wildlife Sanctuary https://safehavenwildlife.com

Details Posting: https://safehavenwildlife.com/join/internships/

Starting Date: For immediate hire/start date negotiable

Hours per Week: 40

Salary: $20 per hour

Education Required: Some Undergraduate

Experience Required: at least 1 year

Location: 9605 State Route 400 (Imlay, Nevada)

Description

Safe Haven Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Northern Nevada, is currently interviewing for a full-time Lead Animal Keeper position. Accredited by GFAS, the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, Safe Haven provides lifelong care to abandoned and surrendered exotics. In addition to our mission of rescue, we also provide placement for retired animals from several Species Survival Plans, including the Cheetah and Snow Leopard Foundations. Position Description: The Lead Animal Keeper is responsible for assisting fellow lead keepers in the overall management and maintenance of the sanctuary, including staff, volunteers, animals, habitats, and buildings. This position requires excellent communication and leadership skills. Lead Animal Keepers report to the Executive Director.

Responsibilities:

Manage and assist with the daily care of animals and the sanctuary, including but not limited to:

• Coordinating and participating in habitat cleaning, repairs, and maintenance with other keepers and interns.

• Performing daily husbandry activities, including feedings, providing medications, operant conditioning, training and enrichment.

• Monitor and document daily observations regarding animal health, behavior, diet and enrichment. • Meet regularly with staff and interns to ensure that tasks are completed, and following standard operational procedures, rules, regulations, and policies. • Prepare daily reports to the Executive Director summarizing tasks completed.

•Training of new keepers and interns as assigned, and delegating tasks as needed. • Assist as needed during veterinary visits.

• Participate in safe capture procedures. • Service and maintain tools, equipment, and facilities following safety guidelines. Interact with Sanctuary guests and the public, including but not limited to:

• Assign and provide informal educational tours to the public and ensure safety practices. • Engage with visitors and provide accurate information regarding the Sanctuary, animals, habitats, conservation status, and animal care.

This position may at times be requested to perform other duties or special projects as needed. All staff, interns and volunteers, must adhere to safety protocols and a no direct contact policy.

Minimum Qualifications: Education & Formal Training: • Bachelor's Degree in biology, animal science, zoology or related field strongly preferred. Experience: • At least one year of zoological or wildlife facility experience required. • Previous leadership experience strongly preferred. • Knowledge of animal husbandry, behavior, and procedures for proper care and training of exotic animals. • Strong observational skills to recognize and evaluate conditions of animal health, diets, and behavior. • Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions, including procedures for the care and maintenance of animals, habitats, grounds, and tours. • Strong verbal and written communication skills

Other Minimum Requirements: • Must have own transportation and a valid driver's license. • Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds and have sufficient mobility to ensure a safe work environment. • Must be able to work in inclement weather. • Work 8+ hour shifts, 5 days per week, including weekends and holidays.

• Must be willing to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, and Holidays, and be able to accommodate special events, emergencies, and animal care needs. • 5-day work week with 2 consecutive days off. • Full-time position, averaging 40 hours per week.

Benefits:

• 40-hour work week with two consecutive days off per week.

• 10 vacation days per year.

• Safe Haven is remotely located, and optional free housing is available, apart from monthly utilities.

Submitted materials will be reviewed, and a phone interview will be scheduled. Applicants can submit a cover letter, resume, and two letters of recommendation to: safehavenwildlife1@gmail.com (preferred contact method).

 Wildlife Rehabilitation Internship = January 2026

We will soon be accepting applications for our Spring 2026 Urban Wildlife Rehabilitation Internship at Pasadena Humane.  

At our center we operate a wildlife helpline, offer community education programs, and provide medical care through our wildlife rehabilitation clinic.

We are currently recruiting for 10-week internship tracks:

We will be hosting a virtual Q&A session n Monday, February 2 at 5:30 PM. Anyone interested in attending should email wildlife@pasadenahumane.org to request the link.

The full job listing will be posted at this link shortly after the Q&A on February 2 and we will be accepting applications for two weeks. Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter with their application.

Mandatory orientation for selected interns will take place on February 28 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Large Carnivore Handler- January 2026

Full time

Location: Out of Africa Wildlife Park, Camp Verde, Arizona

Pay Rate: Starts at $16/ hour, commensurate with experience, plus tips.

A salary increase will be considered with evaluation at completion of the 90 day probation period. Paid holidays, vacation and sick time included.

Out of Africa Wildlife Park is a 104 acre, one of a kind facility that brings people close to animals and inspires conservation action through play, loving relationships and natural behaviors. Our park has worked free contact with large carnivores for over 35 years and we demonstrate remarkable relationships and care for the animals because of it.

Responsibilities:

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: providing daily husbandry and behavioral management for a collection of 35 large carnivores (tigers, lions, leopards, wolves, bears, pumas, spotted hyena), cleaning animal exhibits, preparing diets and feeding animals, administering medications prescribed by the veterinarian, public speaking, driving educational tours, landscaping, and must be ready and willing to work free contact with large carnivores in exciting, educational, and entertaining shows for the public daily.

The ability to work in a team is paramount.

A passion for animal care, education, and conservation is required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• The position requires 1 year of carnivore experience or a 4 year degree in a related field.

• Should be in excellent physical condition. He or she must be a proficient swimmer, able to sprint, and able to lift 50 pounds above his or her head on a regular basis.

• Must excel at following instructions and protocols very carefully and thrive with constructive criticism as you’re learning.

• Have a vast knowledge of large carnivores.

• Must be able to engage with the public (one on one and over a microphone to large audiences) on a daily basis for tours, demonstrations and scheduled shows.

• Must be able to multi-task and adjust to changing procedures, schedules, and time constraints.

• Must be able to work independently and as a part of a team with good communication skills, a high degree of responsibility, and attention to detail.

• Must be available to work full-time, flexible hours including weekends and holidays. A valid drivers license is required. Drug test required.

Send resume, cover letter and references to:

Brittney Olson core@outofafricapark.com

Subject line: “Large Carnivore Handler”

Name: John Ball Zoo
Email: baovhowell@gmail.com
Phone: $21
Message:
The Zoo Educator for School & Youth Programs facilitates school and community programs onsite and offsite to increase public awareness of age-appropriate concepts in ecology, zoology, conservation, and environmental sciences. These programs include Zoo Lab, Zoo Camp, and STEM programs. The Zoo Educator works with zoo staff, classroom teachers, and community partners to implement programs for diverse school groups from grades pre-K – university that align with state curriculum standards, John Ball Zoo’s mission, and the Zoo’s conservation messaging. The role includes curriculum development including programming on Zoo grounds and in classrooms, creation of supplemental materials for teachers, and program evaluation.

Santa Barbara Audubon Society / Pt Director- Eyes on the Sky  10/9/25

Mission Statement: Santa Barbara Audubon Society protects area birdlife and habitat and
connects people with birds through education, conservation, and science.
The key education program of Santa Barbara Audubon Society (SBAS) is Eyes in the Sky
(EITS), featuring live raptors no longer capable of surviving in the wild. EITS is housed at the
SBAS Aviary at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History (SBMNH). At the SBMNH,
schools, and other venues, these raptors delight and educate people of all ages about local birds
and their habitat. Established in 2000, EITS is a volunteer-based program funded through
donations, grants, sponsorship, events, and fees charged for presentations and programs. As there
is strong demand for wildlife education in the Santa Barbara area, SBAS seeks a director with
experience in raptor handling to oversee the EITS aviary and education outreach activities.

Position Title: Director, Eyes in the Sky

Description:
The EITS Director is a part-time employee of the Santa Barbara Audubon Society (SBAS),
reporting to the Executive Director of SBAS and ultimately to the Board of SBAS, carrying out
its mission, policies, and programs. This is a non-exempt, hourly, at-will position. Generally,
hours are 1:00-5:00 pm, five days a week; the hours and the two days off per week can vary. Two
weeks paid vacation per year, 40 hours of sick time, and 6 paid holidays are included. All are
based upon a four-hour workday.
Compensation range is $30 - $40 per hour; will be commensurate with experience.
Duties and Responsibilities:
• Responsible for the health and welfare of live raptors housed in the SBAS Aviary at the
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History. This includes preparing and delivering raptor
diets, training or assisting in the training of captive raptors, transporting them for veterinary
appointments, and health maintenance such as beak and talon trims. Directs and designs any
enhancements to the aviary and oversees any maintenance required. Ensures the aviary is
sufficiently stocked with relevant equipment, supplies and raptor food as necessary.
• Recruits (if necessary), trains, organizes and supervises the EITS aviary assistant, an SBAS
staff member who can deputize for the Director on days when the Director is absent from the
aviary.
• Recruits, trains, organizes, and supervises volunteers who support EITS as raptor handlers,
public presenters, and in other capacities as Director sees fit.
• Organizes and oversees EITS community engagement, educational outreach to schools,
senior centers, environmental organizations, etc. and collects donations generated by the
programs. This may include transporting birds to offsite venues within the Santa Barbara
area.
• Organizes and works with a Steering Committee of senior-level volunteers for EITS.
2
• Keeps state and federal licenses and permits for the raptors up to date, including
recordkeeping and data entry in compliance with permit requirements. Submits required
reports.
• Serves as liaison with the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History.
• Collaborates with SBAS to produce marketing and communications about EITS.
• Responsible for submitting EITS news to the editor for El Tecolote, the quarterly SBAS
newsletter.
• Attends Audubon Board meetings quarterly and the Board Retreat annually.
• Works with the executive director and treasurer on EITS expenditures and budget planning.
• Required to transport raptors and carrying crates, as needed.
• Performs other essential duties that may be assigned consistent with the general scope of the
position.
Desired Experience and Qualifications:
• 2 years’ minimum experience in the handling, care, and maintenance of live raptors; 5 years’
experience or master falconer preferred.
• Leadership ability, administrative experience, and organization and communication skills
sufficient to direct a program of the size and scope of EITS (budget about $70,000 per year,
approximately 25 volunteers).
• Experience in community engagement and educational outreach, teaching, or other roles with
an emphasis on public communication.
• Enthusiasm for educating people of all ages about raptors.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications--Word, Excel, Power Point, etc.
• Ability to interview, train, supervise, and organize volunteers.
• Ability to write and speak effectively.
• Experience using social media and websites.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation that can accommodate raptor carrying crates
in a safe and secure manner.
• Must exercise discretion and confidentiality in handling staff/donor/volunteer information.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States and able to pass a background check.
• Local residency preferred.
• As the primary work location is on the grounds of the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural
History, applicant will undergo the Museum’s volunteer training program and must be
willing to follow Museum protocols for health, safety, and conduct.
• Flexible, creative problem-solver.
• Collaborative and eager to work in a team-driven environment.
• Organized and process-oriented when managing multiple projects.
• Accuracy and attention to detail a must.
• Must be able to provide two professional references upon request.
3

Physical Requirements:
Applicant must be able to perform the following activities:
• Be able to handle a live raptor on a glove for an extended period
• Adjust or move objects up to 20 pounds in all directions
• Ascend or descend stairs
• Remain in a stationary position for prolonged periods, often standing or sitting at a desk
and working on a computer
• Walk on uneven surfaces and navigate a variety of terrains
10/6/2025

Morro Bay National Estuary Program- Monitoring Technician/ Jan 29

Position Overview
This position supports the Estuary Program's Monitoring Program through fieldwork, equipment
maintenance, and data management. They report to the Monitoring Projects Manager.

601 Embarcadero, Suite 11
Morro Bay, CA 93442

www.mbnep.org

Monarch Joint Venture - Field Technician- Jan 29

The Monarch Joint Venture is hiring three pairs of field technicians (full-
time, seasonal) to study monarch butterfly breeding and migratory
habitat across California. Technicians will be split into teams of two
among three regions: Northern California (5 months), Central California
months), Southern California (5 months).
Apply online at
Talent.com