Summary:
You will work closely with the Birds and Mammals Curators, Senior Biologists, and sometimes Husbandry Director in carrying out the operations of the birds and mammals exhibits of Adventure Aquarium; this includes all aspects of animal husbandry, exhibit maintenance, and holding system management. As a Biologist I, your priorities include fostering a positive team atmosphere, attention to animal health, exhibit, and guest excellence. In this role, you will participate in and assist with developing the Bird and Mammal training program, which consists of behavioral demonstrations presented to our guests on a scheduled basis. Additionally, you will be responsible for maintaining organized written records about health, feeding, water quality, and behavioral observations.
About us:
As a Herschend Family Entertainment property, Adventure Aquarium is in the business of creating memories worth repeating by greatly exceeding guest expectations, serving others, creating emotional connections, and seeking constant improvement. Stewardship, guest satisfaction, and team member satisfaction are our core areas of focus. We aim to be a great place to work for great people by leading with patience, kindness, humility, respect, unselfishness, forgiveness, truthfulness, and trust. Together, we will create emotional connections that will last a lifetime!
What you’ll do:
- As a member of the team, you will lead by example by being patient, kind, humble, respectful, selfless, forgiving, honest, and committed when interacting with one another and guests.
- Provide for the needs of all animals related to the bird, mammal, and reptile collection-Hippo Haven, Little Blue Beach, Penguin Island, and Ambassador Animals, by doing exhibit cleaning and holding system maintenance, diet preparation and feeding, and enrichment.
- Present daily shows and presentations for our guests, which include our Encounter Programs
- Maintain records about feeding, water quality analysis, behavioral observations, training activities, and medical procedures.
- Maintain exhibit quality standards through regular maintenance and cleaning activities.
- Collaborate with Animal Health Services staff for animal health issues, treatments, and veterinary procedures.
- Keep work area clean and organized and report mechanical failures to supervisors promptly.
- Assist in collecting and other Husbandry department activities when needed.
- Participate in Aquarium related education, public relations, and membership programs, including facility tours and lectures.
- Comply with safety and security directives, policies, and procedures.
- At the direction of supervisors, interact with and respond to public/media requests for information.
- Assist in collecting and other Husbandry department activities when needed.
- Cross-train with other staff in Husbandry and Animal Health Services.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
What you get:
- Annual salary of $38,500 annually.
- Comprehensive benefits plan through Humana and Guardian
- Profit Sharing and 401K with company match after the first year of service
- Up to 100% paid tuition through GROW U program
- 2 weeks’ vacation, 1-week personal time, 1-week sick time, 8 paid holidays; all based on a full calendar year
- Free admission and 24 General Admission tickets annually, to be used by family and friends
- Complimentary tickets to local attractions when available
- 30% Discount at our Retail and Photo areas, as well as in-house food vendors
- Training and development
Required Skills
What you’ll bring:
- 1-2 years (3-4 years without a degree) of experience working with animals in a zoo or aquarium institution, with an emphasis on animal care and maintenance of exhibit and holding areas.
- Bachelor’s Degree in biology or a related field is required (3-4 years of full-time mammal or avian training experience at a zoo or aquarium may be substituted in lieu of a degree) with specific knowledge of animal husbandry and behavioral conditioning.
- A proven track record of consistently high performance.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule which will include weekends, evenings, and holidays.
- A valid driver's license with a good driving record.
- Ability to travel when necessary, usually not to exceed 2-4 weeks at a time.
- Ability to respond to emergencies on an on-call basis.
- A certification from a recognized S.C.U.B.A. training organization is a plus
Special Requirements:
- This position has been identified as Safety Critical with authorized operator requirements.
- Successful completion of pre-employment background and drug screening.
- Capable of performing strenuous and heavy physical labor.
- Ability to remain on feet for long periods, climb stairs, bend, and stoop.
- No history of allergies related to animals or plants, which might interfere with the ability to work.
- Ability to work in all weather conditions.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Ability to safely perform the job.
Note: This position will involve exposure to inclement weather, dust, potentially dangerous and unpredictable animal species, and potentially hazardous machinery, restraint devices, and toxic chemicals and drugs. Occasional use of protective clothing or equipment is required. (e.g., Goggles, mask, gloves, and gowns)
Required Experience