What are the responsibilities and job description for the Animal Encounters and Care Specialist (Part-Time) position at African Safari Wildlife Park?
Please complete the job application to the best of your ability. Incomplete applications will not be considered. This includes past employment with references.
African Safari Wildlife Park is a drug-free workplace and equal opportunity employer.
All employees are expected to cross-train in multiple positions.
Animal Encounters and Care Specialist (Part-Time)
African Safari Wildlife Park, one of the top family destinations in the Shores & Islands Ohio region, is entering a period of significant growth and investment. Guided by our mission, we are dedicated to inspiring connections between people and wildlife while fostering an appreciation for the natural world.
We’re looking for talented individuals who are passionate about animals, wildlife conservation, and providing amazing guest experiences to embark on this exciting journey with us! Whether you’re an expert in animal care, a leader in guest services, or an advocate for conservation, there’s a place for you on our team.
As an Animal Encounters and Care Specialist, you’ll play a key role in creating unforgettable experiences for our guests by facilitating meaningful interactions with a variety of exotic and domestic animals, from the Giant Giraffe to the Tiny Tarantula. You’ll also assist zookeepers with animal care tasks, habitat maintenance, and enrichment to ensure the highest standards of care. Efficiency, adaptability, reliability, and teamwork are key qualities for success in this role.
Key Responsibilities:
- Animal Encounters & Guest Engagement
- Facilitate safe, interactive animal encounters for guests of all ages—ranging from feeding Giraffe and Capybara to handling ambassador animals to monitoring the Drive-Thru Safari
- Lead or assist with animal presentations and educational programs that promote conservation and animal appreciation
- Ensure the safety of animals, staff, and guests during all interactions by following established handling and safety protocols
- Animal Care and Welfare Support
- Assist keepers in providing daily husbandry for the Park’s animal collection, such as enrichment, cleaning, and behavioral training programs
- Support veterinary and animal care staff during procedures, treatments, and health checks
- Maintain clean, safe, and organized habitats, barns, and public area
- Administrative & Cross-Departmental Support
- Assist with supply inventory, food prep, and recordkeeping
- Maintain accurate animal records and observations using AnimalCare Software
- Collaborate with other departments to ensure smooth operations throughout the Park
- Participate in team meetings, trainings, and projects to support park-wide goals
Qualifications:
- Background or education in animal-related field (such as Biology, Zoology, or Wildlife Biology) or in guest-facing field (such as Education, Communications, or Theater)
- Must be 18 years of age or older and pass pre-employment screening
- Must possess a valid driver’s license with clean driving record and reliable transportation
- Physical ability to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions and perform labor-intensive tasks, including lifting and moving up to 70 pounds
- Must provide a negative TB test and have a recent tetanus shot
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a positive and collaborative attitude
- Ability to work efficiently under minimal supervision and manage time effectively
- Willingness to learn new skills and adapt to the park’s unique needs
- Flexible schedule, must work most weekends and holidays
- Comfortable learning to operate farm equipment (past experience not required)
What We Offer:
- Opportunities for further education and development
- Team member appreciation days and parties
- Free admission for yourself and family & friends on your days off
- In-Park Discounts on retail and select animal encounters