The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex, with 21 museums and the National Zoo. This position is located in the National Zoological Park in Front Royal, VA. The mission of the National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) is to save species by using cutting-edge science, sharing knowledge and providing inspirational experiences for our guests.
The incumbent will perform a variety of duties requiring specialized skills that ensure the proper care, feeding, exhibition, and propagation of a collection of wild and exotic animals, many of which are rare and endangered.
Provide daily care of animals in the collection ensure the health and welfare of the animals that includes the following: Feed and water animals, ensuring proper measurements and preparation of food to include maintaining sanitary conditions of food areas and water containers and recording food and water consumption and report any changes per unit protocols. Clean animal enclosures by hosing, sweeping, scrubbing, raking, and removing manure and unconsumed food.
Weigh animals, record, and report data. Report insect and pest infestations of animals. Monitor animals for symptoms of illness, injuries or unusual conditions and reports to Curator, Assistant Curator or Veterinarian. Maintains animal records and prepare appropriate reports. Participate actively in enrichment programs, training and operant conditioning of animals, propagation and enriching and memorable experiences for visitors.
Observe animal activities such as breeding encounters, nesting activities, courtship rituals, aggression between animals in the same enclosure, feeding habits, etc.
The Smithsonian offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes, in part, vacation and sick leave, holidays, health/life insurance, accident insurance, and excellent retirement program options. Please see Benefits at https://www.si.edu/OHR/benefits for a complete description.
Flexible Spending Accounts - https://www.fsafeds.com/ Health Insurance - http://www.opm.gov/insure/health/index.asp Leave - http://www.opm.gov/oca/leave/index.asp Life Insurance - http://www.opm.gov/insure/life/index.asp Long Term Care Insurance - http://www.ltcfeds.com Retirement Program - https://www.opm.gov/retirement-services/
This position is with Smithsonian Institution , Other Agencies and Independent Organizations.
The posted pay range is $29.02 – $33.82/hr.
This position is eligible for telework.
Applications close on 2026-11-18.
This is a Full-Time position.
This position is open under the 'Public' hiring path.
Source: USAJOBS.gov — U.S. Federal Government · Retrieved 2026-11-05 · Not affiliated with or endorsed by OPM or USAJOBS.gov
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