Zoological Operations ("Animal Care") This group is charged directly with the responsibility for the day-to-day maintenance and housing of the animal collection. Areas of responsibility include supervision, technical services and commissary purchasing. The Zookeeper Apprenticeship program is only available to the Animal Care staff. To apply for a Zoological Operations position, call the City of Calgary 24 Hour Job Information Line (403) 268-2355 or visit the web site at www.calgary.ca

Background Information:

It takes many years of training and apprenticeship to become a zookeeper. Keepers begin as seasonal labourers. Labourers are eligible to compete for keeper apprentice positions when they become available. It often takes a labourer several seasons to become an apprentice. During the four years Zookeeper Apprenticeship Program, candidates take courses, write exams and papers, and work in all sections of the zoo. If they pass the program they are eligible to apply for any keeper positions that become available.

Competition for all Animal Care positions is stiff. Over 700 people applied recently for the few labourer positions advertised. Many successful candidates have a university degree with courses in biology, zoology, anatomy, physiology, animal behaviour, and animal husbandry. They also have animal handling experience gained by keeping pets, working on a farm or by volunteering at an animal shelter or veterinary clinic.