Animal Care Assistant - Amphibian Conservation Area

Job DetailsJob Location: Omaha Zoo - Omaha, NE 68107Position Type: SeasonalJob Title: Animal Care Assistant - Amphibian Conservation Area

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Classification: Seasonal

Hours: 40 hours/week for approximately 15 weeks (584 total hours available starting in early May)

Pay Rate: $15.40/hour

This is a seasonal position with a maximum duration of six months, based on individual performance and business operations. The exact end date will be determined by the official start date. 

Summary:

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is seeking a seasonal Amphibian Conservation Keeper for the summer of 2026 to join the Amphibian Conservation team and assist with efforts to reestablish endangered amphibian populations through wild reintroductions. The Amphibian Conservation Area (ACA) currently cares for 1,300 amphibians in an off-exhibit, biosecure quarantine area with a primary focus of reproduction for synchronized wild releases to natural habitats. The mission of the Amphibian Conservation Area is to address wild amphibian decline by continually advancing conservation efforts, through evolving welfare, reproduction, collaboration, and reintroduction. This position reports directly to the Supervisor of Amphibian Conservation. The species currently focused on are listed below with federal endangered status.

Wyoming Toad (Anaxyrus baxteri) - Federally Endangered, IUCN Extinct in the wild

Western Boreal Toad (A. boreas) - Regionally Endangered

Southern Rocky Mountain Boreal Toad (A. boreas) - Colorado State Endangered

Puerto Rican Crested Toad (Peltophryne lemur) - Federally Threatened, IUCN Endangered

Dusky Gopher Frog (Lithobates sevosus) - Federally Threatened, IUCN Critically Endangered

Frosted Flatwoods Salamander (Ambystoma cingulatum) - Federally Threatened, IUCN Endangered

Blue-spotted Salamander (A. laterale) - Iowa State Endangered

Mountain Yellow-legged Frogs (Rana muscosa) - Federally Endangered, IUCN Endangered

Panamanian Golden Frogs (Atelopis zeteki, A. varius) - IUCN Critically Endangered

This is an ever-changing list.  This department can pick up new projects/species as they present themselves based on wild population assessments. We also care for other amphibian species, not listed, meant for zoological habitats.    

Duties and Responsibilities/Essential Functions (include but not limited to):


Attends to all aspects of daily animal husbandry and habitat maintenance while adhering to specific quarantine protocols for the amphibian populations of special conservation needs within an AZA accredited institution.
Writes clear, concise reports and maintains accurate records on animals and aquatic systems.
Practices clear communication skills and has the capacity to work well with others while maintaining the ability to work effectively as an individual.
Must have the ability to assemble research data and assist in preparing data for publication.
Reports potential issues or concerns promptly to the department supervisor.
Expected to assist veterinarians and technicians during medical procedures and treatments. This position may also be expected to assist other zoo personnel in making minor system/building repairs.
Expected to have or develop the appropriate level of knowledge of the natural history and ex situ wildlife management under their care to ensure the best possible physical and psychological well-being of the animals in our care.
Participates in and helps develop educational presentations to enhance the Zoo Experience for our 1.7 million annual guests.
Participates in and supports collaborative efforts pertaining to the ACA conservation species, such as reproduction of selected species, research, enrichment, training, and conservation programs.
Responsible for daily care and reproduction of several insect species (fruit flies, crickets, roaches, isopods, worms, etc.).
Assist with the maintenance of the area buildings and structures, including but not limited to cleaning, light construction, general upkeep, equipment maintenance, isolation room maintenance and repair, etc. 
Must be team-oriented and willing to work with other team members to further not only the goals of the Amphibian Conservation Area but also of the Zoo’s mission statement. 
May be asked to mentor/supervise interns and/or Zoo Academy students.
Keepers are expected to demonstrate safe working practices at all times and learn effective time management skills.
Work has exposure to physical and zoonotic disease risk, correlating PPE is provided.
This position may at times require intense public contact, requiring considerable interpersonal ability, and an appreciation for public speaking.
Staff may also provide crowd control during peak times and emergency situations. 
Must be willing to work in extreme weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, etc.) and with potentially dangerous animal species. Amphibian Conservation keeper