Animal Care Specialist

Aquarium of Niagara Animal Care Specialist Description Reporting to the Curator of Marine Mammals & Birds, this position will provide a supportive role in the operation and function of the Marine Mammals & Birds Department, with final authority in such matters remaining with the Director of Zoological Operations. Essential Responsibilities * Responsible for assisting with the daily care, behavioral conditioning and health and welfare of the marine mammal and bird collection including the Aquarium's harbor seals, California sea lions, and Humboldt penguins. * Play a key role in maintaining the highest standard in the areas of husbandry, diet preparation, record keeping, and animal observations * Provide support to senior training staff and play supportive or primary roles of daily presentations, guest interactions, and other programs as applicable * Assist in food preparation, environmental enrichment, facility/habitat maintenance, accurate record keeping, medical/husbandry procedures and animal observations. * Possess a strong knowledge of pinniped and penguin history, individual animal histories, and husbandry * Maintains established criteria for all existing behaviors with the entire marine mammal and bird collection * Begin training behaviors as necessary, under the direction of senior staff and the Curator of Marine Mammals and Birds * Recognize signs of aggression and be aware of safety protocol for each respective species of the marine mammal and bird collection * Be able to address basic areas of animal management, including the application of operant conditioning techniques in maintaining criteria of existing behaviors * Uphold USDA standards in all areas of operation including commissary, animal areas, laboratory, freezers/coolers, and medical facilities * Perform regular SCUBA diving maintenance on various exhibits throughout the Aquarium * Perform basic water quality and life support procedures of marine mammal and bird exhibits * Be aware of animal handling techniques to ensure the well being of the marine mammal and bird collection * Perform other duties as assigned by management Requested Requirements * College degree in biology, psychology, or related science * SCUBA certification through an accredited diving agency * Must be able to pass swim test which includes but is not limited to treading water, breath holding, and free diving * Previous paid experience of behavioral conditioning with marine mammals and/or birds * Must be able to demonstrate proficiency in public speaking and guest interaction * Must be able to work on a team as well as function individually with little supervision when necessary * Must be able to work a flexible schedule to include weekdays, weekends, evenings, and holidays Working Conditions * Must be able to lift and carry fifty (50) pounds, work on un-even and slippery surfaces, withstand temperatures of hot and cold, and sit/stand for long periods of time when necessary Salary Range $17.25 - $21.00 Salary $17.25 - $21.00 How to Apply Please send resume and cover letter to [email protected]. Be sure to include Animal Care Specialist in the subject line of any correspondence. "The Aquarium of Niagara is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be afforded equal employment opportunities without discrimination because of race, color, creed, religion, sex, age, national origin, citizenship, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law. Aquarium of Niagara Niagara Falls, NY Visit our website