What are the responsibilities and job description for the Animal Educator & Attendant position at Sarasota Jungle Gardens?
Animal Educator – Job Description
Overview:
An Animal Educator is responsible for developing and delivering engaging educational programs and presentations about animals, conservation, and environmental topics. This role helps foster public awareness, appreciation, and responsible stewardship of wildlife and natural resources.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
Animal Attendant – Job Description
Overview:
An Animal Attendant is responsible for the daily care, feeding, and welfare of animals in a zoo, sanctuary, rehabilitation, or educational facility. They ensure animals’ needs are met while maintaining clean, safe, and enriching environments.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
Overview:
An Animal Educator is responsible for developing and delivering engaging educational programs and presentations about animals, conservation, and environmental topics. This role helps foster public awareness, appreciation, and responsible stewardship of wildlife and natural resources.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
- Develop and present educational programs for schools, camps, tours, and public events.
- Handle and present live animals safely in front of audiences of various ages.
- Educate guests on animal biology, behavior, habitats, and conservation efforts.
- Assist in creating interpretive signage, displays, and educational materials.
- Support animal care staff with daily husbandry duties as needed.
- Ensure all educational content aligns with the organization’s mission and animal welfare standards.
- Maintain accurate program attendance and animal use records.
- Participate in training and professional development related to animal handling and interpretation.
- Engage with guests to answer questions and encourage conservation action.
- Comply with all safety and regulatory standards regarding animal handling and public interaction.
- Strong public speaking and communication skills.
- Experience with animal handling and interpretation.
- Knowledge of zoology, wildlife conservation, or environmental education.
- Ability to adapt programs for different audiences and age groups.
Animal Attendant – Job Description
Overview:
An Animal Attendant is responsible for the daily care, feeding, and welfare of animals in a zoo, sanctuary, rehabilitation, or educational facility. They ensure animals’ needs are met while maintaining clean, safe, and enriching environments.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
- Feed, water, and monitor animals according to established diets and schedules.
- Clean and sanitize enclosures, habitats, and work areas.
- Observe animal behavior and health; report abnormalities or concerns to supervisors or veterinarians.
- Assist in administering medications and following treatment plans under supervision.
- Provide environmental enrichment to promote physical and mental well-being.
- Maintain accurate records of animal diets, behavior, and health observations.
- Assist with animal training and handling for educational or husbandry purposes.
- Support guest engagement by answering questions and promoting responsible wildlife care.
- Follow all safety procedures and biosecurity protocols.
- Operate and maintain cleaning, feeding, and safety equipment.
- Experience working with animals in a professional or volunteer capacity.
- Basic understanding of animal behavior and welfare principles.
- Attention to detail and ability to follow specific care instructions.
- Physical ability to lift, bend, and perform manual labor in various weather conditions.
- Compassion, patience, and strong work ethic.