Job Summary 

The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University is seeking an experienced and passionate Animal Keeper to help maintain the ambassador animals of multiple museum experiences including, but not limited to, Bugfest, Outside In and other exhibits and programs live animals are used. These areas are home to a variety of invertebrates (arthropods), small mammals, and a variety of reptiles. Working with many internal departments, the Animal Keeper will work with all animals at the Academy in both permanent and temporary exhibitions. They will work with staff, faculty, Drexel Co-Op Students, and interns. The ideal candidate should be an experienced Animal Keeper, a natural leader with some management experience, a professional demeanor, and a creative yet organized style of working. They should be intrinsically motivated, passionate about learning and the natural sciences, and proactive in their work.

Essential Functions 

• Provides daily husbandry, health checks and behavior observations for our ambassador animals including invertebrates, mammals, reptiles and some amphibians.
• Ensure the health and well-being of the collection in compliance with federal and state regulations and Animals Programs Protocols. 
• Prepare diets, administer medications and other care as directed by veterinarian. 
• Records in appropriate logs and records and maintain communication among other team members.
• Cleans enclosures and surrounding areas for all animals as scheduled.
• Provides daily enrichment of animals as scheduled. 
• Trains and supervises interns and volunteers working with animals at ANS.
• Understands and abides by current federal, state permits and protocols required to house our collections.
• Strives to give the animals in our charge the best quality of life possible. 
• Coordinates with supervisor on yearly goals and activities.
• Complies with all Drexel-required trainings and certifications. 

Required Qualifications 

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Science, Biology, Zoology, or equivalent.
• Minimum of 1-2 years of experience.
• Computer skills including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
• Experience or ability to learn specialized reporting software.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience administering medications and restraining animals.
• Dependable; reliable attendance, including nights and weekends, and flexibility to work some special events.
• Excitement and sense of passion around the natural sciences and learning with animals.
• Welcoming, positive outlook and a genuine love of the sciences is highly desirable.

Physical Requirements 

• Typically sitting at a desk/table.
• Typically standing, walking.
• Lifting demands ≤ 25lbs.
• Typically bending, crouching, stooping.
• Lifting demands ≤ 50lbs.

Location 

• Center City, Philadelphia, PA

Additional Information

Special Instructions to the Applicant

Please make sure you upload your CV/resume and cover letter when submitting your application.

Review of applicants will begin once a suitable candidate pool is identified.

Additional Information 

This is a Part Time Per Diem  position classified as Non Exempt.  The offered pay is based on the successful candidate’s qualifications and experience, department budget, and an internal equity review.   

For information about benefits, please review Drexel’s Per Diem/Casual/Temporary Benefit Fact Sheet.  

Special Instructions to the Applicant 

Review of applicants will begin once a suitable candidate pool is identified.