Zoological Specialist

SeaWorld•Tampa, FL

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! What you get to do: You will maintain husbandry of fish and other aquatic life in aquarium exhibits, including preparing food and feeding animals. This role will involve providing proper aquarium maintenance, such as algae removal, display diving, aquarium decorating, preventive maintenance, pump replacement, etc. You will: Perform basic water quality testing, chemical additions, salt water make up, pH and temperature testing Utilize knowledge of aquarium husbandry techniques, including taxonomy, record keeping, aquarium filtration, aquarium theory, and emergency procedures Monitor aquarium health-related issues, including parasitic identification/treatment, and perform area quarantine procedures as needed Assist with animal collecting and repairs to aquarium filtration systems Answer guest questions concerning aquarium animals Provide animal transports, in park and out of park Follows proper park safety protocols and performs safety checks Communicate professionally and effectively with Ambassadors, vendors and our guests Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

At least 18 years of age
High school diploma
Have 18 or more months of experience in a similar public aquarium setting
Knowledge of food preparation and feeding techniques
SCUBA certification
Valid driver’s License
Strong communication, math, guest service and multitasking skills
Able 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
You will 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)
Able 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
Will perform cleaning duties; including use of cleaning chemicals
Will work flexible schedules/hours based on business needs, to include opening, mid-, and closing shifts; nights, weekends, and holidays
Flexible in work locations as placement will depend on business needs and career development opportunities
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 marine science or related field preferred

Responsibilities

Maintain husbandry of fish and other aquatic life in aquarium exhibits, including preparing food and feeding animals
Provide proper aquarium maintenance, such as algae removal, display diving, aquarium decorating, preventive maintenance, pump replacement, etc
Perform basic water quality testing, chemical additions, salt water make up, pH and temperature testing
Utilize knowledge of aquarium husbandry techniques, including taxonomy, record keeping, aquarium filtration, aquarium theory, and emergency procedures
Monitor aquarium health-related issues, including parasitic identification/treatment, and perform area quarantine procedures as needed
Assist with animal collecting and repairs to aquarium filtration systems
Answer guest questions concerning aquarium animals
Provide animal transports, in park and out of park
Follows proper park safety protocols and performs safety checks
Communicate professionally and effectively with Ambassadors, vendors and our guests
Perform other duties as assigned