Wild Encounters Specialist, Animal Encounters Village

We invite you to apply for the position of Wild Encounters Team Member at our Animal Encounters Village. 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.

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 safety of humans and animals during formal and informal presentations while providing 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 or a related field is required.
• 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

• Position starts a $25.98 per hour!