Aquatics Care Specialist

Life Sciences Manatee Aquatics & LSS Division
Location: On-site
Reports to: Assistant Curator
Status: Non-Exempt

Aquatics Care Specialists provide exceptional care for the animals in the Manatee Aquatics and LSS Division. This includes feeding animals maintaining habitats monitoring health testing water quality providing enrichment and keeping detailed records.

The top priority in this role is always the safety and wellbeing of both animals and people. Team members also help create positive guest experiences by sharing information about animals conservation and the Zoos mission.

• Feed water medicate and care for assigned animals.
• Clean and maintain habitats and animal areas.
• Provide enrichment and training activities to support animal wellbeing.
• Observe animal behavior and health and report any concerns.
• Keep accurate records of animal care and daily observations.
• Perform routine water quality testing and report results.
• Assist with animal introductions and social group management.
• Help with veterinary procedures and approved research projects.
• Support breeding programs and animal transfer recommendations.
• Work with other departments to meet both animal and habitat needs.
• Help coordinate animal transports when needed.
• Make minor habitat repairs and submit maintenance requests.

Senior Aquatics Care Specialists may also cross-train in other areas or divisions.

• Follow all safety policies and procedures.
• Prioritize the safety of guests staff and animals at all times.
• Respond appropriately to safety concerns animal emergencies or guest issues.
• Follow animal handling biosecurity and containment procedures.
• Help maintain compliance with industry standards and regulatory agencies including AZA FWC USDA and OSHA.

• Interact with guests in a friendly and professional manner.
• Share information about animals conservation and wildlife care.
• Support educational programs tours presentations and special events.
• Encourage responsible conservation behaviors.
• Help promote Zoo programs experiences and events.
• Support revenue-generating experiences and activities.

• Work collaboratively with coworkers in a positive team environment.
• Train and mentor new employees interns and volunteers as appropriate.
• Communicate respectfully and professionally with guests and coworkers.
• Practice good stewardship of Zoo equipment supplies and resources.
• Participate in committees projects and department initiatives when needed.
• Complete additional duties to support department operations.

• Passion for animal care and conservation.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to work well with others in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Good problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to remain calm and adaptable in stressful situations.
• Respect for diversity and commitment to an inclusive workplace.
• Ability to safely operate equipment vehicles and tools.
• Comfortable learning new tasks and following established procedures.

• Basic computer skills including Microsoft 365.
• Ability to learn Zoo management systems such as ZIMS and Paycom.
• Knowledge of animal husbandry nutrition behavior and environmental needs.
• Understanding of animal welfare conservation and regulatory standards.
• Ability to communicate conservation messages to guests.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Six months (approximately 960 hours) of paid or volunteer experience working with wildlife in a professional setting.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Two years of full-time equivalent experience working with wildlife in professional animal care.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Five years of full-time equivalent experience working with wildlife in professional animal care.

• Associate or bachelors degree in Animal Science or a related field.
• Experience with animal training and enrichment programs.
• Relevant certifications in animal care or training.

• Must be available to work weekends holidays evenings and overtime as needed.
• Must be able to assist during emergencies severe weather events and disaster response situations.

This position requires the ability to:

• Stand and walk for extended periods.
• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Bend kneel crouch crawl climb and reach.
• Walk on uneven terrain and climb stairs or ladders.
• Operate tools vehicles carts and equipment.
• Work safely around animals and equipment.

Team members regularly work outdoors and may experience:

• Heat cold rain wind and other weather conditions.
• Exposure to animals animal waste noise chemicals and equipment.
• Potential exposure to allergens and animal-related injuries.
• Work in enclosed spaces when necessary.
• Weekend holiday and irregular work schedules.

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must maintain a valid drivers license and acceptable driving record.
• Occasional travel for animal transports or professional development may be required.

Required Experience:

IC