Contract Keeper, Conservation Breeding Programs
About the role
Department: Wildlife Health
Rate of Pay: Starting: $25.53, 520 Hours: $27.24, 1040 Hours: $28.37
Duration: Starting ASAP, ending November 13, 2026 (Non-Permanent)
Hours of Work: 40 hours per week
Number of Positions Open: 1
Looking for a career with a dynamic organization that is committed to protecting wildlife? We are interested in dedicated individuals who are positive, enthusiastic, and passionate about connecting people, animals, conservation science and traditional knowledge to fight extinction. Your Toronto Zoo makes animal well-being a priority in all operations and shows respect for all wildlife.
Apply Online by May 28, 2026.
Position Purpose: The Keeper, Conservation Breeding Programs is responsible, working alongside full-time keepers, in the breeding and recovery programs for endangered species. They will assist in the care, maintenance and breeding of the program animals including feeding, cleaning and ensuring animal well-being. They will participate in the collection and compilation of data in preparing husbandry and research reports. They will assist in conservation educational outreach programs, writing reports, program updates, and work with other programs and species in the area. This position will assist and provide support in implementing the Strategic Plan.
Core Role Responsibilities:
- Assist with the care and feeding of animals.
- Assist in breeding programs and medical procedures.
- Assist with data collection for various research initiatives.
- Conduct behavioral observations of paired animals.
- Assist with compiling and interpreting behavioral data.
- Assist with outreach educational programs.
- Assist with writing program updates.
- Provide progress reports to Toronto Zoo staff.
- Follows all policies and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Attends appropriate training as required.
Technical Knowledge and Skills:
- Must be a university or college graduate with a background in environmental science, conservation biology, zoology or a related field, or the equivalent amount of training and related experience.
- Must have a minimum of 1 year of proven related experience in an animal care role.
- Must have previous zookeeping or animal husbandry experience.
- Previous experience working with ex-situ breeding programs preferred.
- Experience in interpretive/outreach programs desirable.
- Able to work in varying climate conditions
- Ability to work independently.
- Ability to work overtime.
- Experience in research desirable.
- Must ensure all applicable licenses and certificates remain valid and in good standing. Copies of licenses and certificates to be provided at time of hire and upon renewal.
- Well-developed interpersonal skills, along with strong communications skills.
- Working knowledge of the Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act and WHMIS legislation an asset.
- As asset to possess an unrestricted Class G driver’s license valid in the Province of Ontario is an asset, along with a good driving.
- Must be knowledgeable in the use of computerized programs and systems.
- Must be able to work weekends, shifts and holidays as scheduled.
- Must be able to deal with staff and public in a courteous and efficient manner.
- Capable of meeting the physical requirements of the position.
While we appreciate the interest of all applicants, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.The successful candidate may be required to provide a police reference check and/or driver’s abstract, at their own expense as a condition of employment.Candidates may be required to take a written and/or practical examination relevant to the position.
Your Toronto Zoo values the importance of inclusive recruitment practices and strives to create a workplace that reflects and celebrates the rich diversity of our city. Please let us know if you require specific accommodations to be in place before you begin the interview process.
Your Toronto Zoo respects the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion and seeks to model these principles in all that we do. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workforce where all employees feel respected, supported and valued. We strive to create an environment that represents the rich diversity of our guests and our community and encourage applications from all qualified individuals who can contribute to enhancing our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Applications are especially encouraged from racialized persons/persons of colour, Indigenous/Aboriginal People of North America, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2S+ persons, and women.
Your Toronto Zoo makes animal well-being a priority in everything we do, respecting wildlife, caring for our team, guest and community. We are a welcoming place to visit, volunteer, and work, united by a shared commitment to conservation, connection, and reconciliation. We blend science and traditional knowledge to protect species and their habitats, and we invite others to join us as Guardians of Wild, acting together to ensure wildlife and wild spaces thrive.
This job posting is for an existing vacancy within our organization.
Your Toronto Zoo uses artificial intelligence to screen, assess or select applicants.
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