Aquatics Care Specialist

About the role

Aquatics Care Specialists provide exceptional care for the animals in the Manatee, Aquatics, and LSS Division. This includes feeding animals, maintaining habitats, monitoring health, sing water quality, providing enrichment, and keeping detailed records. The top priority in this role is always the safety and wellbeing of both animals and people. Team members also help create positive guest experiences by sharing information about animals, conservation, and the Zoo’s mission.

Responsibilities

• Feed, water, medicate, and care for assigned animals.
• Clean and maintain habitats and animal areas.
• Provide enrichment and training activities to support animal wellbeing.
• Observe animal behavior and health and report any concerns.
• Keep accurate records of animal care and daily observations.
• Perform routine water quality sing and report results.
• Assist with animal introductions and social group management.
• Help with veterinary procedures and approved research projects.
• Support breeding programs and animal transfer recommendations.
• Coordinate animal transports when needed.
• Make minor habitat repairs and submit maintenance requests.

Requirements

• Passion for animal care and conservation.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to work well with others in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Good problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to remain calm and adaptable in stressful situations.
• Respect for diversity and commitment to an inclusive workplace.
• Ability to safely operate equipment, vehicles, and tools.
• Comfortable learning new tasks and following established procedures.

Qualifications

• Aquatics Care Specialist I: High school diploma or equivalent. Six months (approximately 960 hours) of paid or volunteer experience working with wildlife in a professional setting.
• Aquatics Care Specialist II: High school diploma or equivalent. Two years of full-time equivalent experience working with wildlife in professional animal care.
• Senior Aquatics Care Specialist: High school diploma or equivalent. Five years of full-time equivalent experience working with wildlife in professional animal care.

Skills

• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft 365.
• Ability to learn Zoo management systems such as ZIMS and Paycom.
• Knowledge of animal husbandry, nutrition, behavior, and environmental needs.
• Understanding of animal welfare, conservation, and regulatory standards.
• Ability to communicate conservation messages to guests.

Benefits

Team members regularly work outdoors and may experience: Heat, cold, rain, wind, and other weather conditions. Exposure to animals, animal waste, noise, chemicals, and equipment. Potential exposure to allergens and animal-related injuries. Work in enclosed spaces when necessary. Weekend, holiday, and irregular work schedules.

Pay

Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.

Schedule & Availability

• Must be available to work weekends, holidays, evenings, and overtime as needed.
• Must be able to assist during emergencies, severe weather events, and disaster response situations.

Physical Requirements

• The ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• The ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• The ability to bend, kneel, crouch, crawl, climb, and reach.
• The ability to walk on uneven terrain and climb stairs or ladders.
• The ability to operate tools, vehicles, carts, and equipment.
• The ability to work safely around animals and equipment.

Working Conditions

• Regularly work outdoors.
• Work in enclosed spaces when necessary.
• Weekend, holiday, and irregular work schedules.

Additional Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must maintain a valid driver's license and acceptable driving record.
• Occasional travel for animal transports or professional development may be required.