JOB TITLE
Avian Trainer
WAGE/SALARY (£)
Supportive of Experience Level
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS:
09-Aug-2024
COLLECTION NAME
Ocean Connections
WEBSITE
WORK ADDRESS
Panama City Beach Florida
ABOUT THE COLLECTION
Ocean Connections is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization that is dedicated to inspiring conservation awareness and public action for our world’s ocean through education. We are committed to furthering our dedication to the field of science, education, and animal welfare. We are honored to actively participate in providing a forever home to numerous rescued pinnipeds. It is our goal to further community outreach inspiring conservation stewardship. Ocean Connections provides the animal ambassador portion of the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show as well as an interactive and educational Animal Encounter. We ensure the well-being of sea lions, macaws, ducks, dogs, and doves on a daily basis through high quality diets, habitat sanitation, and exceptional veterinary care. Ocean Connections is seeking a highly motivated, innovative, team-oriented individual to be part of our animal training team in Panama City Beach, FL. The training for this position will start at our Myrtle Beach, SC location and then require permanent relocation to Panama City Beach in Spring of 2025.
JOB DESCRIPTION
Job Description:
• Care for and maintain animal collection including pinnipeds, parrots, birds and dogs through diet preparation, exhibit maintenance, animal behavioral observation and data entry, supportive of all record keeping.
• Support and assist with the care and training of baby birds including beginner husbandry work and free flight training
• Ensuring exceptional animal welfare and care of our animals through the implementation of a comprehensive behavior, training and enrichment program that meets and exceeds AWA regulations, along with AMMPA, IMATA and AZA standards and guidelines.
• Food preparation for all animals under Ocean Connections care. Responsible for the storage, thawing, and processing of daily diets.
• Responsible for maintaining and supporting the facilities and all Ocean Connections performance areas. The daily cleaning and disinfection of the pool, dry docks, wet docks, holding pens, bird room, dog room, duck pens, pump house, trainers’ office, and any other facility being utilized by Ocean Connections for public display.
• Conduct behavioral training for all animals in support of daily performances in the Pirates Voyage shows.
• Support and assist with coordinating the day-to-day operations of our Ambassador Animal Programming which includes animal welfare, enrichment, behavioral observations, training, mentorship, and public education which enhancing quality presentations, guest experiences and visitor interactions.
• Supports leadership with team members to identify short-term goals, and actively participate in enrichment, welfare, and progression in order to successfully execute animal care, husbandry essentials and training goals.
• Maintains a working knowledge of environmental, life support system needs, dietary and feeding requirements to support industry and animal care standards.
• Other duties as assigned. Requirements:
• This position is for Panama Beach, however, training will start at our Myrtle Beach, SC location and then will require relocation to Panama City Beach in Spring of 2025
• Minimum of 2+ years full–time paid experience working with Aves, desired experience with Macaws
• Experience with application of behavioral modification techniques with animal training.
• Minimum four-year degree in biology or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Proficiency in all areas of husbandry, training, care, and handling.
• Strong customer service and public speaking skills.
• SCUBA/CPR/First Aid Certification strongly encouraged.
• Ability to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends and holidays.
• Knowledge of contemporary animal training and environmental enrichment techniques.
• Strong team skills.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with computers.
• Ability to carry 50 lbs.
• Ability to hold yourself up on a rope for at least 5 seconds
• Valid Driver’s License and ability to obtain State Driver’s License.
WORKING HOURS
9-6, 11-8, or 1-10
JOB TYPE
Full Time
THE CANDIDATE WILL BE EXPECTED TO WORK ON:
Bank Holidays, Public Holidays
STAFF BENEFITS
PTO, Sick PTO, Extra days off for those that work holidays, health insurance stipend and an individual broker.
MORE INFORMATION
The training for this position will start at our Myrtle Beach, SC location and then require permanent relocation to Panama City Beach in Spring of 2025.
INTERVIEWS WILL BE HELD FROM:
07-Feb-2025
START DATE FROM:
08-Mar-2025
ZOOM/SKYPE INTERVIEW AVAILABLE
Yes
COVER LETTER REQUIRED?
Yes
CONTACT:
Kylie Ballmann
POSITION
Director of Creative Operations
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