Wild Encounters Specialist (Africa)

We invite you to apply for the position of Wild Encounters Team Member on our Africa team in the Heart of Africa. This role is essential in ensuring the comprehensive care and well-being of our diverse animal collection while engaging the public through educational presentations and guided tours.

• One of the most rewarding aspects of being part of the Wild Encounters Africa team is the diversity of managing the Watering Hole habitat and cheetah run presentations.
• Each day presents unique opportunities, while consistently involving the core elements of animal care and guest interaction.
• You will be responsible for the husbandry of a wide variety of species within the Wild Encounters Africa department, including cheetahs, spotted hyenas, aardvarks, silvery-cheeked hornbills, and warthogs.

Responsibilities

• Animal Care and Husbandry
• Assist in the overall care and health of the animal collection, including nutrition, enrichment, and well-being management.
• Maintain animal exhibit areas, perform basic horticultural tasks, and ensure cleanliness and safety.
• Prepare and manage diets according to established plans, with guidance on diet manipulation.
• On-Grounds Public Engagement and Presentations
• Deliver daily educational programs and presentations, engaging guests with professionalism.
• Support special events, VIP tours, and behind-the-scenes experiences.
• Ensure the safety of both humans and animals during formal and informal presentations, while effectively collaborating in free contact training sessions to provide information about their behavior and care.
• Compliance and Facility Maintenance
• Adhere to USDA, AZA, and ZAA regulations and ensure compliance during inspections.
• Support facility maintenance for the Wild Encounters area.
• Promote sustainable practices in daily operations.

Experience Required

• Educational Background 
• Bachelor’s degree in zoology, animal science, biology, or a related field preferred; or four years of relevant experience in animal husbandry. 
• Experience (6 months to one year) in animal husbandry and training experience working with aardvarks, hyenas, warthogs, and cheetahs in a free contact setting preferred.
• Public speaking experience, especially in wildlife and conservation topics, is essential.
• Professional Skills
• Strong understanding of animal husbandry practices and ability to work with a diverse animal collection.
• Knowledge of animal and conservation issues required.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Teamwork and Attitude
• Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and develop positive working relationships.
• Maintain a positive attitude in high-pressure situations.
• Able to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Additional Requirements
• Proof of negative TB screening prior to employment and annually thereafter.
• Valid driver’s license with a good driving record.
• Successful completion of a criminal background check.

Further Comments

• Join us in this dynamic role, where your passion for animal care and commitment to guest education can truly thrive!

Perks

• Our mission at the Columbus Zoo Family of Parks is EMPOWERING PEOPLE.
• SAVING WILDLIFE.
• When you are a part of our full-time Columbus Zoo and Aquarium team, you are helping us achieve that mission!
• We offer competitive wages, paid time off, excellent benefits including covered premiums for vision, dental, basic life, and disability insurance, and OPERS retirement.
• Did we mention the perks?
• Company provided tuition reimbursement, Zoo family membership, free admission, and discounts at all our parks, team member appreciation events, wellness program, and more.
• Plus, as a nonprofit organization, our employees can take advantage of the student loan forgiveness through the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

Salary

• This position starts at $25.98 per hour