Embark on a Career as an Animal Keeper at the Smithsonian National Zoo
Are you ready to transform your passion for wildlife into a meaningful professional career? The Smithsonian Institution is currently accepting applications for an Animal Keeper position at the National Zoological Park in Washington, DC. This is a rare opportunity to work at one of the world's most prestigious research and conservation complexes, directly impacting the lives of rare and exotic animals.
About the Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian is more than just a collection of museums; it is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. Within this ecosystem, the National Zoological Park and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) stands as a beacon for wildlife conservation. Their mission is driven by scientific innovation and the goal of sharing knowledge to save species on the brink of extinction.
Key Responsibilities
As an Animal Keeper, your daily routine will be both demanding and incredibly rewarding. You will be responsible for:
- Daily Husbandry: Feeding, watering, and maintaining clean habitats for a variety of exotic species.
- Health Monitoring: Observing animals for signs of illness or injury and coordinating with veterinary staff.
- Enrichment and Conditioning: Actively participating in operant conditioning programs to improve animal welfare and provide mental stimulation.
- Data Collection: Maintaining accurate logs regarding consumption, behavioral patterns, and breeding encounters.
Comparison of Key Qualifications
| Feature | Requirement Status |
|---|---|
| Physical Ability (50 lbs+) | Mandatory |
| Prior Animal Care | Preferred |
| Pre-employment Background Check | Mandatory |
| Behavioral Husbandry Experience | Highly Preferred |
Requirements for Success
This role requires candidates who are physically prepared for heavy lifting and long hours on their feet. You must be comfortable working in challenging environments, including outdoor settings in all weather conditions, and be capable of maintaining safety around powerful, wild animals.
Your resume is the most critical part of your application. You must limit it to two pages and avoid copying text directly from this announcement. Instead, focus on describing your specific, hands-on experience with animal care.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive hourly rate between $29.02 and $33.82. Beyond the pay, employees receive access to the robust federal benefits package, which includes:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance.
- Generous leave policies (vacation and sick time).
- Federal retirement savings plans.
- Flexible spending accounts.
Application Tips
Federal applications are competitive. To stand out, ensure your resume provides detailed information about your actual experience—paid or volunteer. Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure all necessary data fields are covered. Finally, double-check your occupational questionnaire answers; the hiring team will compare your self-ratings against the evidence provided in your resume.
If you are dedicated to animal welfare and want to contribute to the mission of the Smithsonian, this is your chance to shine. Apply today through the official USAJOBS portal and take the next step toward a career that makes a tangible difference in the world of conservation.
Why This Animal Keeper Job Matters
Turn your passion for wildlife into a career of impact at the world-renowned Smithsonian National Zoo.
Animal Keeper Job Overview
The Smithsonian Institution is seeking a dedicated Animal Keeper to join the National Zoological Park in Washington, DC. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the mission of saving species through cutting-edge science, animal care, and public education. You will work directly with a diverse collection of exotic and endangered animals, ensuring their health, safety, and enrichment in a world-class facility.
Requirements for Animal Keeper
- Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs regularly.
- Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions, including exposure to heat, cold, and allergens.
- Comfortable working in cramped spaces and around potential animal hazards such as bites, scratches, and waste.
- Must pass a pre-employment background investigation.
- Ability to work without direct supervision while performing complex animal husbandry tasks.
- Must maintain a bank account for direct deposit of salary.
Preferred Qualifications for Animal Keeper
- Proven track record in animal enrichment and operant conditioning techniques.
- Experience in observational data collection regarding animal behavior and breeding patterns.
- Prior experience working with rare or endangered exotic species in a zoological setting.
- Strong communication skills for documenting health status and engaging with zoo visitors.
- Expertise in maintaining sanitary habitats and preparing specialized diets for exotic animals.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- ✓Generous vacation and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Paid federal holidays.
- ✓Excellent federal retirement program options.
- ✓Flexible Spending Account eligibility.
💡 How to Apply Animal Keeper Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Animal Keeper Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account profile.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly no more than two pages.
- Identify your relevant experience in animal care, ensuring dates and hours worked are included.
- Submit your application through the official USAJOBS portal before the closing date.
- Upload any required documentation, such as DD214 for veterans or transcripts for educational claims.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire during the application process.
💡 General Tips
- Focus your resume on specific animal care achievements rather than general duties.
- Do not copy language from the job description; write in your own words to highlight your unique experience.
- Ensure your resume clearly lists the month and year of employment for every job held.
- Proofread your application to ensure your self-ratings match the experience detailed in your resume.
- Apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues with the portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of the Smithsonian's National Zoo?
The National Zoological Park and Conservation Biology Institute focuses on saving species by utilizing cutting-edge scientific research, sharing knowledge, and providing meaningful experiences for the public.
Is relocation assistance provided for this role?
The Smithsonian does not pay for relocation expenses, though they may authorize recruitment incentives under certain conditions.
What should I emphasize in my two-page resume?
Emphasize specific, hands-on experience with exotic animals, including behavioral observation, diet preparation, enrichment, and enclosure maintenance, ensuring you quantify your experience where possible.
Can I apply if I don't have a degree?
Yes, this position evaluates your specialized skills and experience in animal husbandry rather than solely your academic credentials.
Will I be working indoors or outdoors?
Both. You will rotate through indoor climate-controlled areas and outdoor exhibits, exposed to various weather conditions and environmental factors.