Zoological Specialist

About the role

At Discovery Cove Orlando, we're passionate about caring for animals. In fact, we've already rescued over 40,000 animals (and counting!). And we can save you from being stuck in just another job. Join us and help bring joy, excitement, and lasting memories to people from around the world. We're seeking enthusiastic, dedicated, and hard-working individuals to become our Ambassadors. Join us and play an important part on our incredible team!

What you get to do

You will maintain husbandry of fish and other aquatic life in aquarium exhibits, including preparing food and feeding animals. This role will involve providing proper aquarium maintenance, such as algae removal, display diving, aquarium decorating, preventive maintenance, pump replacement, etc. You will:

• Perform basic water quality testing, chemical additions, salt water make up, pH and temperature testing
• Utilize knowledge of aquarium husbandry techniques, including taxonomy, record keeping, aquarium filtration, aquarium theory, and emergency procedures
• Monitor aquarium health-related issues, including parasitic identification/treatment, and perform area quarantine procedures as needed
• Assist with animal collecting and repairs to aquarium filtration systems
• Answer guest questions concerning aquarium animals
• Provide animal transports, in park and out of park
• Follows proper park safety protocols and performs safety checks
• Communicate professionally and effectively with Ambassadors, vendors and our guests
• Perform other duties as assigned
• What it takes to succeed:
• At least 18 years of age
• High school diploma
• Have 18 or more months of experience in a similar public aquarium setting
• Knowledge of food preparation and feeding techniques
• Bachelor's degree in marine science or related field preferred
• SCUBA certification
• Valid driver's License
• Strong communication, math, guest service and multitasking skills

What else is important

• Able to lift, push, pull and/or carry up to 50 lbs.
• Position engages in extensive walking and standing throughout entire work shift and climb/ascend heights, if needed
• You will perform the following physical activities: kneeling, squatting, bend floor-to waist/waist-to-overhead, reach overhead, simple grasp and fine hand manipulation tasks (use of tools/keyboard/writing)
• Able to work indoors and outdoors, in varying weather, to include extreme heat
• Position may be exposed to fumes, dust, odors and cold/heat temperature extremes
• Will perform cleaning duties; including use of cleaning chemicals
• Will work flexible schedules/hours based on business needs, to include opening, mid-, and closing shifts; nights, weekends, and holidays
• Flexible in work locations as placement will depend on business needs and career development opportunities

As a 365 day/year operation, candidates are expected to provide flexible availability to support year-round operating needs. This may include, but is not limited to, working opening, mid-day and closing shifts during peak and non-peak seasons, as well as weekends and holidays.

The perks of the position

Ambassadors will enjoy a fun, fast-paced environment, and great teammates, as well as:

• FREE park admission
• Discounts on park admission tickets and passes for family and friends
• Park discounts on food, merchandise, etc.
• Scholarship opportunities
• Exclusive employee events and giveaways