What are the responsibilities and job description for the Animal Care Aide, Part-Time position at Mississippi Aquarium?
Position Description:
This is a part-time, entry level position within the Animal Care department at the Mississippi Aquarium. Hire(s) will report directly to the area Curator, or any other Animal Care department staff member as directed by Curator. Animal Care Aide will learn and perform basic standard operating procedures for designated coverage galleries / animal collection. Animal Care Aide will rotate area of responsibility within the department as directed by Curator.
Requirements:
Must have or be close to obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Biology, Psychology, Chemistry, Zoology, or related field. Experience in maintaining terrariums, avian or marine mammal systems. Basic but broad knowledge of various animal husbandry care techniques and animal health requirements for amphibians, birds, reptiles, and small mammals. Must be able to lift 60lbs and able to navigate stairs and ladders.
Characteristics of the job:
Animal Care Aide will perform all aspects / operation of an assigned coverage area. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: diet preparation, cleaning, feeding, accurate record keeping, exhibit maintenance, management of animal health issues, display aesthetics and some guest interaction.
Accountabilities:
- Adhere to all Mississippi Aquarium safety and security protocols.
- Perform objectives, protocols, policies, and operating procedures to ensure the most successful, efficient, effective, and professional habitats and the related operations for the Animal Care Department of the Mississippi Aquarium.
- Communicate and maintain positive working relationships with guests, staff, supervisors, other departments, suppliers, professional associations, and colleagues in related industries.
- Learn and apply the basics of aquarium science and incorporate this understanding into creating successful maintenance / care routines. Learn coverage routines for assigned galleries. Maintain and report accurate gallery records.
- Effectively troubleshoot gallery problems with assistance from the other Biologists, Seniors, Supervisors, and/or Curators.
- Provide recommendations for improvements.
- Supervise interns and volunteers on occasion.
- Learn and be able to perform Water Quality Laboratory SOP’s. Record, interpret and make corrections to water quality as needed.
- Undertake special projects assigned by the area Curator.
Other desirable attributes:
- Current Driver’s License
- Open Water Dive Certification
- CPR / First Aid certified
- Venomous animal protocol familiarity
- Dangerous animal protocol familiarity
