Interactive Animal Program - Animal Care Assistant

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium • Omaha, NE

1d • $15 • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking entry-level Animal Care Assistant to ensure safe animal/guest interactions, provide self-initiated guest interaction, and provide basic animal care in the following interactive animal areas at the Zoo: African Goat Kraal, Aquarium Touch Pool, Butterfly and Insect Pavilion, Children’s Adventure Trails Goat Hills, Giraffe Encounter, and Stingray Beach. The majority of time spent in this position is guest-facing, so it requires a high level of guest engagement. Ideal candidates must be proficient with initiating interactions with people, working around animals, be team-oriented, and have strong attention to detail. This position reports directly to the Wild Kingdom Pavilion Supervisor in the Interactive Animal Programs department.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age or older.
• Ability to learn relevant and factual information about a diverse group of animals.
• Ability to initiate positive and engaging conversations with Zoo guests.
• Must be comfortable working with a diverse population of all ages and abilities.
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude while balancing multiple priorities.
• Ability to function independently or with the supervisor to manage guest questions.
• Along with exhibiting good judgment in making decisions.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Experience working with animals preferred.
• Familiarity with positive reinforcement animal training preferred.
• Candidates might be (depending on position) required to pass a pre-employment background check, drug test, negative skin tuberculosis test, and possess a valid driver’s license with a good history.

Responsibilities

• Ensure all guests follow protocols for proper exhibit experience and safe animal interaction to be in compliance with AZA and USDA standards.
• Execute all assigned animal care duties, under the direction of relevant area animal care staff. This includes animal habitat cleaning, conducting animal observations, daily food preparation, providing environmental enrichment and basic animal training, general upkeep of facilities, and maintaining daily reports.
• Support the mission of Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium by inspiring, educating, and engaging guests about the animals in the exhibits.
• Assist Zoo guests with questions or guidance to enhance their visit and leave a lasting, positive impression.
• Perform quality work without direct supervision.
• Exhibit good teamwork and communication skills both verbal and written within the home team and when working with other teams or departments.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED