OPEN POSITION
ZooVentures/Animal Ambassador Interpreter
Department: Education
Deadline To Apply: Until Filled
Contact Name / Title: Jeff Ewelt - ZooVentures Manager
FAX or email 813-935-9486 or careers@lowryparkzoo.com
Posting Information: Part Time
Hours / Week: 30 Hours per week
Position Summary: This position is responsible for the daily husbandry and training of the Animal Ambassador Program animal collection. The position is also responsible for the daily interpretation and performance of on grounds and off grounds educational programs.
Job Duties & Responsibilities: 1) Aids with monitoring of daily functions of Animal Ambassador Program (AAP), its services and its staff and volunteer members.
2) Provide ideas to help enhance efficiency as well as to improve the quality of interpretation provided to the guests of Lowry Park Zoo.
3) Must be able to plan for and work special events and exhibits as well as being available for unexpected shifts, emergencies or promotions.
4) Aids in daily interpretation of on grounds Birds of Prey Show, Manatee Encounter, Critter Corner.
5) Aids in daily interpretation of off grounds Zooventures program at schools, business meetings or corporate special events.
6) Aids with all media promotions including on camera interviews with animals.
7) Responsible for proper media protocol.
8) Maintains clean driving record for safe operation of zoo vehicles.
9) Must posses excellent interpretation skills, be comfortable with public speaking and be able to improvise when needed.
10) Records daily health records and monitoring of daily weights and enrichments.
11) Must have working knowledge of operant conditioning and is responsible to help implement training protocol.
12) Helps to implement new, creative ideas for growing show schedule.
13) Aid in script development and training routines.
14) Aids with husbandry protocol.
15) Helps to implement hurricane, animal death and animal escape protocol.
16) Aids with script development and implementation of seasonal animal shows.
17) Able to present programs to different audiences and with different themes.
18) Aids in implementation of current conservation projects.
19) Helps maintain a clean and safe work environment within the Animal Ambassador Program.
20) Other duties as assigned.
Skills Needed:

General knowledge of operant conditioning, animal husbandry, handling and behaviors of exotic and native animals. Ability to interpret to large groups of all ages. Ability to work weekends, evenings and holidays. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Ability to function as a team player. Must be able to communicate well with public and present a positive attitude even in difficult situations. Must be detail oriented and posses good record keeping methods. Must be self-motivated.

Education Experience:

High school diploma or equivalency. Background in Zoology, Biology or environmental education. One year of experience within an AZA accredited institution. Strong public speaking skills and ability to improvise are very important. Computer experience including Windows Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc. is also preferred.
Physical Requirements: Must be able to lift 50 pounds and be able to stand for long periods. Must be able to withstand typical Florida climate. Must posses and maintain a state of Florida driver’s license.

Please mail, fax or drop off completed applications to:
Lowry Park Zoo, 1101 West Sligh Avenue, Tampa, FL 33604-5958
Fax (813) 935-9486

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Equal Opportunity Employer
Drug-Free Workplace