Ambassador Animal Specialist

Reports To: Animal Experience Manager

The Ambassador Animal Specialist I (AAS) is responsible for the daily care and maintenance of the ambassador animal collection within the Education Department. The role works directly with a variety of animal species—including reptiles, mammals, birds, and amphibians—to ensure high‑quality welfare through diet preparation, behavioral enrichment, and thorough recordkeeping, and also supports educational programs such as tours and presentations.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily animal care, including diet preparation, feeding, cleaning, medicating, and behavioral enrichment.
• Attend planning sessions with the Director of Education and the Ambassador Experience Manager (AEM) to evaluate and maintain species in the collection.
• Give and receive feedback effectively while embracing a growth mindset.
• Maintain records on the collection’s health, enrichment, and training.
• Collaborate and communicate with the AEM, veterinary staff, and animal care staff to ensure the health and safety of ambassador animals.
• Facilitate the ambassador animal enrichment program and contribute to animal growth.
• Work closely with Education Managers to maintain quality volunteer, teen, and intern training.
• Assist with programs as needed (including overtime), such as school programs, chats, events, and animal experiences.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Education or AEM.

Requirements

• At least one year of experience facilitating animal care in a zoo, aquarium, or shelter setting.
• Preferred experience with raptors, reptiles, and small mammals (not required).
• Comfortable with public speaking, reading scripts, and implementing basic animal training during public programming.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, collaborating well with zoo staff and project partners.
• Experience working with data and using it to convey meaningful information.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to address groups of all ages and aptitudes.
• Certification in CPR/AED and First Aid; institutional first responder.
• Valid driver’s license, a driver in good standing, and a reliable vehicle for institutional use as needed.
• Physical ability to lift 50 pounds and walk over uneven terrain in all weather conditions.