Zoological Specialist Associate

Sea World•Williamsburg, VA

13d•$13 - $22•Onsite

About The 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 – $12.50 - $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.

Requirements

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
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.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Biology, or a related field preferred
Previous equine, exotic bird and or bird of prey experience preferred

Responsibilities

Supports training sessions for a wide variety of zoological animal areas and programs.
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.