Town of Cochrane hiring permanent, unionized animal care staff for Polar Bear Habitat; applications close June 19
The Town of Cochrane is hiring for a permanent, unionized Animal Care Staff position at the Cochrane Polar Bear Habitat in Cochrane. Applications close Friday, June 19, 2026, and the position will remain open until filled.
The job is one of the town’s front-line roles at the Polar Bear Habitat, combining daily animal care work with public presentations and tours. The posting lists shift work that can include weekends, holidays and extended hours.
The position pays $21.43 to $23.34 per hour and includes benefits and a defined benefit pension. The schedule is listed as 40 hours per week, with work that may include weekends and holidays. The role reports to the manager of the Polar Bear Habitat.
Duties include daily husbandry care, cleaning and upkeep of bear enclosures and holding areas, and creating and carrying out enrichment activities. The job also includes preparing bear diets and participating in bear feedings.
The posting says staff are expected to observe the bears for signs of illness or injury, monitor and record behaviour, and report concerns to the team leader when necessary.
The role includes behavioural training using positive reinforcement methods. Staff assist with veterinary care in conjunction with an off-site veterinarian and provide veterinary care and medications as directed by the veterinary team.
Public duties include interpretive and educational presentations and tours, offered in person and virtually, including sessions for on-site and off-site groups. Staff may participate in research projects when available.
Minimum qualifications listed include a degree or diploma in zoology, biology, marine biology, animal science, or wildlife management. The town prefers at least one year of work experience in an animal care or zoo environment.
The posting lists physical requirements that include lifting up to 50 pounds and frequent walking, standing, carrying, pushing, and other physically demanding manual tasks. The role may involve outdoor work in heat, cold, snow and rain.
Bilingualism (English/French) is listed as an asset. Candidates must have, or be willing to obtain, an Ontario Class G driver’s licence, First Aid and CPR certification, and a satisfactory criminal record check. The town says AI will not be used in the selection process.