What are the responsibilities and job description for the Zoological Specialist position at Busch Gardens Williamsburg?
Busch Gardens Williamsburg is proud to have an established Zoo Career Growth structure. Our Zoo Specialist levels are determined based on AZA or equivalent facility experience and skills of individual candidates. Structure includes Associate, Specialist, Senior, or Senior I.
Compensation Range – $12.50 - $22.00 an hour
The Zoological Specialist (Zoological Operations) team will provide consistent care and training for the animal collection in the Zoological Operations Department.
What you get to do:
- Collaborate with team for daily animal health and wellness, training interactions, and animal presentations.
- Daily guest interactions at Zoological areas. These may include talks on the sidewalks, ambassador animal photo sessions, or special presentations with visiting SEA Animal Ambassadors.
- Daily animal enrichment and exhibit maintenance
- Develop animal conditioning skills and techniques. Maintain each animal’s current level of behaviors. Work with senior staff and Zoological Supervisor to develop new behaviors and training goals for each animal.
- Daily, weekly, and monthly record keeping.
- Demonstrate the understanding of the SOPs for zoological areas. Complete in-house dart gun training
- Some heavy lifting required (up to 75 lbs.). Majority of time will be spent outdoors in the Williamsburg weather.
What is takes to succeed
- High School Diploma / GED required.
- College degree in psychology, biology or animal sciences preferred.
- At least two years of experience in animal care and training at a recognized zoological or animal care facility preferred.
- Large carnivore experience preferred.
- Must be team-oriented and flexible, with a positive attitude and the ability and desire to work in a dynamic, stimulating environment.
- Robust communication skills include public speaking and guest relations, as well as efficient communication with team members.
- Hard-working, decisive, and able to manage multiple responsibilities.
- Must be able to work at least 40 hours a week and must be available to work a flexible schedule to include evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
- Must be able to crouch, bend and stand for extended periods of time.
- Must be able to navigate wooded animal habitats including climbing hills.
- Must be able to climb to heights of 4 ft with the use of a ladder.
- Must be able to shovel, rake and sweep.
- Must possess a valid driver's license.
As a 365 day/year operation, candidates are expected to provide flexible availability to support year-round operating needs. This may include, but is not limited to, working opening, mid-day and closing shifts during peak and non-peak seasons, as well as weekends and holidays.
Salary : $13 - $22
