Career Opportunities at Rare Species Conservatory Foundation | Tropical Conservation Institute | Florida International University | FIU
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Career Opportunities at Rare Species Conservatory Foundation

Keeper I/Animal Care

Reports to General Curator. Part-Time (25-30 hrs/week).

  • Daily care and management of exotic, endangered animals at RSCF's FL facility
  • Must have experience working with exotic animals in captivity
  • Duties include daily diet preparation/feeding of parrots, primates and African hoofstock
  • Enclosure/property maintenance, fabrication and design
  • Must be able to work well with others, be physically fit (able to lift 75 lbs.), operate an ATV, and work outdoors in all weather conditions 
  • Must be available weekends and holidays 

Compensation/Benefits:  $14/hr to start with opportunity for advancement.

Florida resident only. Send current resume and letter of inquiry to info@rarespecies.org

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Resident, Senior Animal-Care Specialist

Reports to Director. Full-time, salaried position.

At RSCF, we’re passionate about caring for wildlife. As a principal partner in Florida International University’s Tropical Conservation Institute, RSCF provides the real-time, hands-on conservation platform to develop and execute long-term recovery projects for critically endangered species.. We’re seeking an enthusiastic, dedicated, hard-working, career-seeking individual to help lead our animal-care team. 

As a Resident Senior Animal Care Specialist:

  • Live on-site at RSCF's 30-acre South Florida conservation and research center
  • Responsible for providing excellent animal care and management every day
  • Work in a consistent, professional and positive manner displaying consideration, tolerance, cooperation, open communication, and reliability
  • Follow all husbandry, training, and safety protocols
  • Safely and efficiently work with a diverse collection of animals including endangered small primates, parrots and African hoofstock. 
  • Maintain safe and sanitary animal habitats and working areas
  • Maintain daily, weekly, and monthly records
  • Create and provide animal enrichment
  • Have a demonstrated ability to evaluate animal wellness
  • Understand the natural and life histories of animals on-site
  • Deliver instructional seminars as needed
  • Be engaged in, and contribute to, RSCF conservation and recovery programs
  • Other duties as assigned

The perks of the position:

As part of the RSCF team, you’ll enjoy a fun, fast-paced environment and great teammates, as well as:

  • Full-time, salaried position with competitive compensation
  • Paid time off
  • Clean, comfortable on-site housing provided


If you’re looking for the opportunity to become involved in impactful, real-time, global conservation programs we'd like to hear from you!

What it takes to succeed:

  • Must have 3 full time years of zoological/exotic species paid animal experience
  • Be a self-starter, highly motivated to learn and apply new skills
  • Have a demonstrated attention to detail
  • High School diploma; 4-year college degree in relevant field preferred
  • Must have a clean driving record and own a reliable vehicle for personal use
  • Must be physically fit and comfortable working outdoors in south Florida weather conditions
  • Able to frequently lift/move 50 pounds, occasionally lift/move up to 100 pounds stand for prolonged periods of time
  • Commit to a flexible schedule that may include weekends, holidays, early mornings, and late evenings
  • Possess strong written/verbal communication skills; ability to speak
  • Commitment to learn and grow with a dynamic conservation team

How to Apply

Send letter of inquiry, resume, and references to info@rarespecies.org