Zoological Specialist Associate

Job description

SEASONAL POSITION Busch Gardens is a place of thrills, fun and positive, lasting memories. And that's just what its like to work here! As a key member of our team, you'll play a major role in bringing happiness and excitement to people from around the world. If you're dedicated, dependable and driven to deliver exceptional guest service, this is a place for you! Busch Gardens Williamsburg is proud to have an established Zoo Career Growth structure. Our Zoo Specialist levels are determined based on AZA or equivalent facility experience and skills of individual candidates. Structure includes Associate, Specialist, Senior, or Senior I. Compensation Range – $12.77 - $22.00 an hour The Zoological Specialist, Associate is responsible for providing consistent care and training of the collection of all assigned animals at the Highland Stables, Lorikeet Aviary, and Eagle Ridge areas; following all husbandry and training protocols for the specified zoological areas; working in a consistent professional and positive manner; learning and demonstrating required training and handling protocols for any applicable animals; demonstrating the ability to safely work with a very diverse collection of animals including mammals, birds, reptiles and arthropods; having excellent guest service skills for daily presentations and interactions. 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 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 Busch Gardens. 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 Able to complete provided CPR training/certification Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Biology, or a related field preferred Previous equine, exotic bird 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 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. The perks of the position: Ambassadors will enjoy a fun, fast-paced environment, and great teammates, as well as: FREE park admission Discounts on park admission tickets and passes for family and friends Park discounts on food, merchandise, etc. Scholarship opportunities Exclusive employee events and giveaways EEO Employer: SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, PREGNANCY, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR COVERED VETERAN STATUS.