Seasonal Animal Care Specialist (Mammals)

AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums, Certified Related Facilities, Commercial Members, Conservation Partners and Society Partners may post free unlimited online job listings as a member benefit. Non-members can purchase job listings.Interested in a career in AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums? Learn more about types of zoo and aquarium jobs and relevant education programs in our career center.Seasonal Animal Care Specialist (Mammals) Summary : This position is responsible for the handling, training, and care of the animal collection under the guidance of the division supervisors at the Alaska SeaLife Center.Education / Training Requirements : Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology, Biology, Zoology, or related field. Computer skills including email, Excel, Word, and database programs. Must have valid driver’s license. Minimum of six months of paid or unpaid experience in animal care. Paid or unpaid marine mammal training experience preferred.Essential Duties : Under the guidance of division supervisors and the Husbandry Director, this position supports the management, care, exhibition, and study of the resident marine mammal collection. This position may assist in the daily husbandry care and maintenance of rehabilitation and transient (short term) animals as necessary.Daily animal diet preparations, water quality testing, and routine cleaning of animal exhibits, holding pools, food preparation facilities and animal work areas.As appropriate, supports voluntary and cooperative behavioral management including techniques involving operant conditioning, enrichment programs, ethograms, and medical and veterinary care.Cross trains with other husbandry staff and areas for efficient use of staff resources as appropriate.Under direction of the division supervisors and the Husbandry Director, assist research staff in facilitation of research projects and the collection of data samples, etc.Uses verbal and written communication to effectively and succinctly communicate with supervisors, veterinary staff, and other staff members. Maintains written and computer-based records.Participates in educational presentations to visitors and the public on topics relating to animal husbandry and ASLC operations including participating in public speaking. Provides helpful, patient assistance and information to the public.Responsible for the underwater maintenance and cleaning of the habitats.Complies with all Alaska SeaLife Center policies, procedures, and programs. Performs other related duties as assigned.Other Skills and Abilities : Ability to be organized, self-motivated, independent, and possess a strong desire to see the completion of projects. Exceptional time management / organizational skills; self-motivated; ability to communicate effectively with various levels in the organization. Excellent written and oral communication skills.Physical Requirements : The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Ability to perform moderate to strenuous physical activity.Ability to swim, see and hear; twist, bend, kneel, stand, and crouch for extended periods of time; use arms and hands; handle objects, tools, and controls; climb stairs and ladders; and sit for periods of time.Must be able to lift and move 50lbs, walk and stand on uneven surfaces, and have a good sense of balance.Ability to work around small and large groups of people.Ability to work safely with and around large, wild animals.Ability to work weekends and availability to work holidays as necessary.Candidate must have the ability to work in an outdoor area involving uneven, slippery surfaces in potentially extremely cold and wet weather.#J-18808-Ljbffr