POSITION SUMMARY

The MSAQ is looking for a highly motivated individual who will take direction from the Curators, Area Supervisors and/or Sr. Vice President of Property Operations in carrying out the animal care routine and maintenance for an assigned set of habitats. The position will be responsible for maintaining organized written records about health, feeding, water quality, animal welfare and behavioral observations. This position is responsible for adhering to all aquarium safety, protocols, standard operating procedures (SOPs) and Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums (AMMPA) accreditation standards.

TRAINER 2 –

• Assists Senior Animal Care Specialists with the development and implementation of dynamic animal training projects and programs that serve to enhance animal care, animal management, guest experience, and Aquarium public relations
• Actively participates in the progression of animal training goals and standards for MSAQ under the direction/supervision of Senior Marine Mammal Trainers and management, including training new behaviors
• Performs interactive programs and presentations
• Assist with the developmental goals of interns and volunteers
  This job description is not designed to cover or contain a full listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

QUALIFICATIONS

• A four-year degree in aquatic sciences, zoology, biology, psychology or equivalent time and experience
• Trainer 1 - Minimum of 1-year professional animal care experience from an accredited AMMPA or AZA institution, or equivalent, required
• Trainer 2 - Two or more years of full-time animal care experience from an accredited AMMPA or AZA institution, or equivalent, required
• Certified SCUBA diver
• Successful completion of pre-employment drug screening, SCUBA dive physical, and area swim test
• Record-keeping experience, preferably with the TRACKS system
• Detailed understanding of the biology, behavior, and natural history of marine mammals, with an emphasis on cetaceans, mustelids and other taxa as needed
• Detailed knowledge of operant conditioning and positive reinforcement animal behavioral conditioning techniques
• 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
• Ability to work weekends, holidays, days closed due to inclement weather
• Experience in preparing and conducting public educational programs
• Able to lift a minimum of sixty (60) pounds
• Strong command of the English language, both written and verbal

TEAM REQUIREMENTS

• 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 they relate to individual job functionality. Tattoos and piercings must be appropriate and in keeping with a professional image. Depending on the work area, management reserves the right to determine whether tattoos will need to be covered during your shift.
• Sales & Guest Services - Our forward-thinking business model requires listening and understanding of the needs of our guests both internal and external. To that end, we must always focus 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 are vital to our organization.