What are the responsibilities and job description for the Part Time - Zoological Specialist (Aquarist) position at Discovery Cove Orlando?
What you get to do:
This role supports training sessions for a wide variety of zoological animal areas and programs. You will perform daily husbandry tasks, including administering vitamins and medications as directed, preparing food, and maintaining a safe and sanitary working area for all animal habitats.
Responsible for food preparation and storage
Provide and maintain a work environment that follows the established guidelines and safety procedures set by the department and park
Consistently display consideration, tolerance, cooperation, open communication, and reliability
Observe animals and report any abnormalities to supervisor and team
Maintain all animal records and equipment
Consistently display consideration, tolerance, cooperation, open communication, and reliability
Perform supportive speaking roles in education and general public presentations.
Proactively engage with guests and respond to guest inquiries
Work with animals using behavioral modification techniques as instructed
Ability to become proficient in the application of behavioral modification techniques used at SeaWorld.
What it takes to succeed:
Able to demonstrate strong verbal communication skills and enthusiastically share a passion for animals and conservation with our guests.
Must be comfortable speaking to large groups of people on stage during presentations
Proficient in talking on a microphone to large crowds of guests
SCUBA certified and have the ability to pass a dive physical
Able to complete provided CPR training/certification
Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Biology, or a related field preferred
Previous Marine Mammal Training and or Bird of Prey experience preferred
At least 18 years old
A valid state driver’s license and be able to obtain a company driver’s license
Ability to lift, push, pull and/or carry up to 50 lbs.
Position engages in extensive walking and standing throughout entire work shift and climb/ascend heights, if needed
Perform the following physical activities: kneeling, squatting, bend floor-to waist/waist-to-overhead, reach overhead, simple grasp and fine hand manipulation tasks (use of tools/keyboard/writing)
Ability to work indoors and outdoors, in varying weather, to include extreme heat. Position may be exposed to fumes, dust, odors and cold/heat temperature extremes
Perform cleaning duties, including use of cleaning chemicals
Work a flexible schedule/hours based on business need, to include opening, mid-, and closing shifts; nights, weekends, and holidays
Must be flexible in work locations as placement will depend on business needs and career development opportunities
Position level and Compensation rate will be contingent on professional zoological animal care experience at an AZA or equivalent facility.
Level is determined through review and assessment of applicable experience by Zoo leadership. Experience required for each level is detailed below:
- Associate: Entry level position
- Specialist: Minimum of 12 months (2,080 hours) professional zoological experience
- Senior: Minimum of 2.5 years (5,200 hours) professional zoological experience
- Senior 1: Minimum of 5 years (10,400 hours) professional zoological experience
Note: as a 365 day/year operation, candidates are expected to provide flexible availability to support year-round operating needs. This may include, but is not limited to, working opening, mid-day and closing shifts during peak and non-peak seasons, as well as weekends and holidays.