Animal Care Specialist, Birds and Ambassador Animals

Mississippi Aquarium•Gulfport, MS

11h

About The Position

Mississippi Aquarium is looking for a highly motivated individual who will work well in a team setting. The Bird and Ambassador Animal Team cares for the free-flight aviary with over 20 species of birds as well as the Ambassador Animal Program, including animals like macaw, African penguins, turaco, conures, two-toed sloth, armadillo, beavers, alligators, and a variety of reptile species. This position requires someone with 1+ years of experience either working with an ambassador program or with multiple avian species. The individual chosen for this position will be responsible for all aspects of animal care, including animal health, welfare, exhibit maintenance, enrichment, training, and recordkeeping, as well as providing excellent guest engagement through daily keeper chats and encounters. This position requires a candidate who is willing to be part of a team and will work to uphold Mississippi Aquarium’s three pillars of Education, Conservation, and Community. This position is responsible for adhering to all aquarium safety, protocols, and standard operating procedures. It is an exciting time to join the Bird and Ambassador team at Mississippi Aquarium! We are currently in the process of building the Ambassador Program and increasing guest engagement, as well as adding several new exhibits including Beavers, Sloth, Reptiles, Amphibians, and African Penguin.

Requirements

A four-year degree in aquatic sciences, zoology, biology, psychology or related field
0-1+ years of experience working at a zoo or aquarium setting or equivalent aquaculture facility to qualify for an Associate Animal Care Specialist (I).
2+ years of experience working at a zoo or aquarium setting or equivalent aquaculture facility to qualify for an Animal Care Specialist (II).
Multi-taxa knowledge of a large variety of birds, mammals, birds, reptiles.
Detailed knowledge of operant conditioning and positive reinforcement animal behavioral conditioning techniques
Record-keeping, collection management experience.
Familiarity with basic medications and administration.
Knowledge of proper animal conformation & body conditions, gestation/incubation periods and nutrition.
Excellent observation and communication skills
Strong interpersonal skills and ethics that generate and sustain a positive team atmosphere and professional environment
A valid driver’s license and the ability to travel if necessary
Ability to work weekends, holidays, days closed due to inclement weather, and to travel for extended periods of time to perform collecting and other duties.
Able to lift a minimum of sixty (60) pounds.
Strong command of the English language, both written and verbal.

Nice To Haves

Experience ambassador programs is preferred.
Successful completion of pre-employment drug screening and SCUBA dive physical
Valid SCUBA certification preferred but not required.
Experience in preparing and conducting public educational programs.

Responsibilities

Provides care for a multi-taxa collection of animals through proper husbandry protocols involving daily observations, feedings, behavioral enrichment, training, and environmental enrichment.
Participates and supports daily guest interactions by participating in Keeper Chat’s, Ambassador presentations, and Encounters.
Helps communicate the aquarium’s conservation and education messaging.
Ensures animal health and welfare through physical and behavioral observations.
Maintains exhibits and keeps support areas clean, organized and safe.
Complies with all SOPs pertaining to daily operations and safety.
Maintains records in accordance with protocols or as directed.
Promotes conservation, animal welfare, and good stewardship in daily tasks.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Identifies and resolves problems with minimal assistance
Undertakes special projects as assigned by manager(s)