Trainer - Penguins

JOB SUMMARY: Demonstrate excellent representation of the aquarium at all times through a positive, can-do attitude and teamwork focused work ethic.

Responsible for participating in routine penguin care procedures, animal training, diet preparation, habitat maintenance, record keeping, public presentations, feedings, and interactive programs. Focus on penguins.  

Minimum Job Requirements: Must be willing to consistently provide guest service above and beyond Mystic Aquarium’s expectations.   

• Bachelor’s degree in related discipline preferred.
• Two years paid professional experience with care and training of marine mammals and birds – penguin experience preferred, or
• Equivalent of four years’ experience.
• Public presentation experience and comfort required.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills required.
• SCUBA certification and the ability to pass a dive physical required.
• Requires schedule flexibility, evenings/weekends/holidays, and overtime.

Responsibilities & Essential Functions: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. If requested, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  

• Provide internal and external customer service and performance exceeding Mystic Aquarium’s target expectations.
• Care for and maintain penguin and marine mammal collection and exhibits.  
• Present public and classroom demonstrations educating public with approved Institutional information.
• Execute routine husbandry procedures to maintain federal, state and institutional guidelines.
• Act as mentor and role model for assistant trainers, interns, and volunteers.
• Foster customer service and teamwork with all departments at MA.
• Keep proper records.
• Participate in planning and training of assigned species.
• Maintain consistent professional attitude, motivation, and willingness to accept feedback.
• Work in cold, hot, wet, indoor and outdoor environment.
• Perform regular SCUBA diving maintenance on animal habitats.
• Monitor operation of life support systems and water quality.
• Participate in development of husbandry techniques and practices.
• Work with other staff to fulfill area and facility interactive programming needs.
• Perform all other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Safety/Security 

• Work in a safe manner at all times
• Properly use and keep, in good order, all personal protective equipment (PPE) supplied to them as protection from recognized hazards
• Report any unsafe condition
• Must have a working knowledge of all Facility wide, and Department specific, safety procedures that relate to their position, including, but not limited to:  Emergency Evacuation, Lockdown Procedure, and Fire Extinguisher Use