Animal Care Professional

Animal Care Professional - Ambassador/Ectotherm SwingDo you enjoy conveying your passion for conservation to the public in an entertaining yet informative manner?If so, we encourage you to apply to be part of Naples Zoo's teamThe Animal Ambassador and Ectotherm department is seeking a Full-Time team-oriented candidate to our growing team.The qualified candidates will have previous experience in presenting live animals, public speaking and a strong background utilizing operant conditioning techniques.Our current animal collection includes birds, small mammals and reptiles; previous experience working with a variety of animals would be an advantage but not required.This position will focus primarily on our Ambassador team with cross training opportunities on our Ectotherm team.We invite you to bring your skills to our teamEssential Duties and ResponsibilitiesAdvanced animal husbandry and care of assigned animals to maximize animal wellnessObservation of animal behavior to monitor health and wellbeingNotification of any animal or safety concerns to the appropriate supervisorMaintain records in accordance with protocols and as directedPerform all area specific standard operating procedure and assist with training staff/interns as requestedComply with and enforce any zoo wide safety protocols and procedures and bring forth any potential hazards for staff, visitors and animals to the applicable supervisors/managersSupport veterinary health needs as requestedPerform animal handling and restraint as neededActively train approved specific animal behaviors for husbandry, management and veterinary procedures.Actively participate in animal enrichment, including generating and implementing new items and submitting them through the appropriate approval processRespond to emergencies as assignedKnowledge of regulatory standards (USDA. FWC. AZA) and ability to recognize a concern and report it to the appropriate supervisorInteract with Zoo visitors in an engaging and professional manner; to include but not limited to, answering questions, conducting shows, keeper chats, and special tours.Provide support for education and conservation programing as neededAssist with special events and requests from marketing and development as neededPerform skilled assignments related to animal care and wellness and prioritize routines and project in accordance with sound time management and efficiencyEffectively communicate with co-workers, supervisor and other Zoo personnelActively participate in area meetingAssist with project management as neededOPTIONAL: Apply to become a trained member of the Zoo's Weapons TeamQualifications and ExperienceAssociate or Bachelor's degree in an animal related field is preferred.Life experience may be substituted.Minimum one-year paid experience in an AZA accredited institution or two-year paid experience in a non-AZA institutionMust be a positive, effective team member and be able to establish and maintain professional working relationshipsAbility to work with people from diverse backgrounds, views and work stylesAbility to work both independently and as a teamAbility to adapt to rapidly changing environment and maintain a positive attitude during times of stressMust be self-motivated and goal-orientedMust have good written and oral communication skillsMust have knowledge of animal husbandry, animal welfare and operant conditioningMust have the ability to work flexible hours, including weekdays, holidays and special events as neededMust be able to organize/prioritize workload to meet deadlinesAbility to drive a vehicle and run small machineryMust be able to think logically and solve problems accordinglyMust be able to communicate with guests in a kind courteous mannerComputer competency with Microsoft programsAbility to learn Species 360/ZIMS data entryPhysical RequirementsAbility to work outside in weather condition typical of South FloridaEmployee must frequently lift and/or move up to 35 pounds and occasionally lift and/move up to 65 pounds, stand for long period of time.Ability to drive Zoo bicycles.Ability to frequently use hands and fingers to handle, reach, feel and manipulate objects, tools or controlsAbility to sit, walk distances, climb, balance, stoop, bend, kneel and crouchAbility for close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focusAbility to hear and talk and use a radioThe duties listed above are intended only as an illustration of the various types of work that may be performed.The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment of the position.SPECIAL INFORMATIONAmericans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ComplianceNaples Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer.The ADA requires Naples Zoo to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities.Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with the Human Resources Office.As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Naples Zoo is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive company culture, and our team does not discriminate against candidates and employees because of their disability, sex, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, veteran status, or any other protected status under the law.Company paid Life Insurance policy of $25,000Supplemental insurance plans available (disability, GAP, accident, critical care)403B Retirement and Investment OpportunitiesTuition Reimbursement Program availableComplimentary Zoo admission for employees and/or their families after 90 days of employmentComplimentary and discounted admissions to 100+ Florida theme parks for employee and/or their families30% Employee Discount at Naples Zoo Gift Shop & Zoo cafes#J-*****-Ljbffr