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SalaryOverview:
This is a part-time position offered between April and September.
Responsibilities:
This is a part-time position offered between April and September.
Responsibilities:
- This position will be primarily responsible for working our fish prep.
- Preparation of animal diets for 10 California sea lions and 4 Harbor seals which includes thawing, weighing, and handling multiple species of fish and invertebrates.
- Ensures that all fish preparation areas stay in compliance with USDA regulations.
- Executes daily cleaning of exhibit acrylic and glass according to established protocols.
- Maintains Zoo grounds and buildings (e.g., vacuums, picks up litter, sweeps, scrubs, and squeegees floors, does laundry, cleans tables, restrooms, walkways and acrylic/windows).
- May assist with the cleaning of animal enclosures and brushing pools.
- Observes animals and reports any behavioral changes to Pinniped Specialists.
- Observes training sessions to gain a basic understanding of training fundamentals.
- Delivers educational interpretation messages, both on and off mic, to guests regarding animal behavior, habitat, and conservation topics.
- Enters daily feed and behavioral records into ZIMS database under supervision.
- Assists with Pinniped enrichment program as needed – cleaning, placement, removal of enrichment items.
- Adheres to all safety protocols within the Pinniped department and the Columbus Zoo.
- This position is designed to continue over 3 years, with potential for advancement to a Seasonal II or III level based on evaluating the demonstration of skills, knowledge of procedures and protocols, and the successful completion of graded tests.
As an employee is advanced to a Seasonal II or Seasonal III position, additional opportunities and responsibilities may include:
- Feeding animals in a protected-contact setting
- Feeding animals in a free-contact setting
- Learning and practicing established behaviors with animals
- Learning and performing animal welfare assessments
- Learning how to write-up behavior plans
- Learning to lead behind-the-scenes tours
- Learning the show script and participating as the Show Speaker
- Assisting the training staff with behavioral training
- Designing and building environmental enrichment devices (EED’s)
- Assisting in the training of new Seasonal employees
- Performs other duties as assigned.
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- BS in zoology or related field preferred.
- New-Hire TB test required.
- Valid driver’s license with good driving record required.
- Prior animal care experience preferred.
- Strong interest in marine mammal training preferred.
- Previous experience with public speaking preferred.
- Able to perform heavy physical work for extended periods of time.
- Able to balance multiple assignments successfully.
- Able to work in varied weather conditions (i.e., extreme heat, cold, snow or rain).
- Able to work in humid and/or dusty environments.
- Able to work with a variety of cleaning chemicals.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Able to provide excellent guest service by positively interacting with guests and upholding the Make it G.R.E.A.T. standards required.
- Able to maintain courteous and helpful behavior.
- Able to work in a team and/or individually with minimum supervision.
- Able to maintain appropriate employee appearance (see uniform guidelines in the employee handbook).
