Animal Care Professional - Ambassador/Ectotherms Swing

Naples Zoo Inc • Naples, FL

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Animal Ambassador and Ectotherm department at Naples Zoo is seeking a Full-Time team-oriented candidate. This role requires previous experience in presenting live animals, public speaking, and a strong background in operant conditioning techniques. The position will focus primarily on the Ambassador team with cross-training opportunities on the Ectotherm team. The qualified candidate will have a passion for conservation and enjoy conveying it to the public in an entertaining yet informative manner. Previous experience with a variety of animals is advantageous but not required.

Requirements

• Minimum one-year paid experience in an AZA accredited institution or two-year paid experience in a non-AZA institution
• Must be a positive, effective team member and be able to establish and maintain professional working relationships
• Ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds, views and work styles
• Ability to work both independently and as a team
• Ability to adapt to rapidly changing environment and maintain a positive attitude during times of stress
• Must be self-motivated and goal-oriented
• Must have good written and oral communication skills
• Must have knowledge of animal husbandry, animal welfare and operant conditioning
• Must have the ability to work flexible hours, including weekdays, holidays and special events as needed
• Must be able to organize/prioritize workload to meet deadlines
• Ability to drive a vehicle and run small machinery
• Must be able to think logically and solve problems accordingly
• Must be able to communicate with guests in a kind courteous manner
• Computer competency with Microsoft programs
• Ability to learn Species 360/ZIMS data entry

Nice To Haves

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in an animal related field is preferred. Life experience may be substituted.
• Previous experience in presenting live animals
• Previous experience in public speaking
• Previous experience working with a variety of animals

Responsibilities

• Advanced animal husbandry and care of assigned animals to maximize animal wellness
• Observation of animal behavior to monitor health and wellbeing
• Notification of any animal or safety concerns to the appropriate supervisor
• Maintain records in accordance with protocols and as directed
• Perform all area specific standard operating procedure and assist with training staff/interns as requested
• Comply with and enforce any zoo wide safety protocols and procedures and bring forth any potential hazards for staff, visitors and animals to the applicable supervisors/managers
• Support veterinary health needs as requested
• Perform animal handling and restraint as needed
• Actively train approved specific animal behaviors for husbandry, management and veterinary procedures.
• Actively participate in animal enrichment, including generating and implementing new items and submitting them through the appropriate approval process
• Respond to emergencies as assigned
• Knowledge of regulatory standards (USDA. FWC. AZA) and ability to recognize a concern and report it to the appropriate supervisor
• Interact with Zoo visitors in an engaging and professional manner; to include but not limited to, answering questions, conducting shows, keeper chats, and special tours.
• Provide support for education and conservation programing as needed
• Assist with special events and requests from marketing and development as needed
• Perform skilled assignments related to animal care and wellness and prioritize routines and project in accordance with sound time management and efficiency
• Effectively communicated with co-workers, supervisor and other Zoo personnel
• Actively participate in area meeting
• Assist with project management as needed
• OPTIONAL: Apply to become a trained member of the Zoo’s Weapons Team

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Health Coverage
• Company paid Life Insurance policy of $25,000
• Supplemental insurance plans available (disability, GAP, accident, critical care)
• 403B Retirement and Investment Opportunities
• Accrued Paid Time Off
• Tuition Reimbursement Program available
• Holiday Premium Pay
• Employee Referral Bonuses
• Complimentary Zoo admission for employees and/or their families after 90 days of employment
• Complimentary and discounted admissions to 100+ Florida theme parks for employee and/or their families
• 30% Employee Discount at Naples Zoo Gift Shop & Zoo cafes

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree