Supervisor of Bird and Ambassador Animals

Supervisor of Bird and Ambassador Animals

The successful candidate will be working with a variety of taxa from reptiles, amphibians, birds and mammals including species such as penguin, sloth, turtle, tortoises, snakes, and others. The employee’s primary objective and responsibility will be to lead a diverse team in the continual development of the aquarium's animal ambassador program. This entails the development, training, and evaluation of all staff and animals involved in the ambassador program.

The employee will also oversee the daily operation of all programs associated with the ambassador team and will work with leadership to facilitate these programs. The position requires a highly motivated individual who will work in a team setting and take direction from the Curators, Managers, and/or Director of Animal Care and Conservation.

• Lead a diverse team in the continual development of the aquarium’s animal ambassador program.
• Develop, train, and evaluate all staff and animals involved in the ambassador program.
• Oversee the daily operation of all programs associated with the ambassador team.
• Work with leadership to facilitate these programs and assist in the creation of new programs.
• Provide care for all animals in the animal ambassador department through proper husbandry protocols, including daily observations, feedings, enrichment, training sessions, and water quality monitoring.
• Ensure guest satisfaction by maintaining exhibits through daily maintenance.
• Help ensure support areas are clean, organized, and safe.
• Comply with all SOPs pertaining to daily operations and safety.
• Maintain records in accordance with protocols or as directed.
• Promote conservation, animal welfare, and good stewardship in daily tasks.

• A four-year degree in aquatic sciences, zoology, biology, psychology or related field.
• At least six years of animal care experience. Preferred animal care experience from an accredited AZA institution.
• Successful completion of pre-employment drug screening and SCUBA dive physical.
• Multi-taxa knowledge of a large variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
• In depth knowledge of operant conditioning and positive reinforcement animal behavioral conditioning techniques.
• Familiarity with basic medications and vaccination programs.
• Knowledge of proper animal conformation & body conditions, gestation/ incubation periods and nutrition.
• Excellent observation and communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ethics that generate and sustain a positive team atmosphere and professional environment.
• A valid driver’s license and the ability to travel if necessary.
• Valid SCUBA certification or physical ability to obtain certificate.
• Ability to work weekends, holidays, days closed due to inclement weather, and to travel for extended periods of time to perform collecting and other duties.
• Experience in preparing and conducting informal educational programs.
• Able to lift a minimum of sixty (60) pounds.
• Strong command of the English language, both written and verbal.

• Safety & Security – All Team Members are required to adhere to all Mississippi Aquarium safety and security standards.
• Attendance & Appearance – To maximize the guest’s experience, all Team Members are required to adhere to Mississippi Aquarium standard operating procedures regarding attendance and dress code policies as it relates to individual job functionality.
• Sales & Guest Services – Our forward-thinking business model requires listening and understanding the needs of our guests both internal and external. To that end, we must always be focused on the guest experience which is the key driver for return guest visitation and increased sales.
• Team Partnership – All Team Members are focused on supporting each other to complete the guest experience. Therefore, supporting, facilitating, and participating in activities that promote team effectiveness is vital to our Organization.

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.…