• Preparation of animal diets for 9 California sea lions and 3 Harbor seals which includes thawing, weighing, and handling multiple species of fish and invertebrates.
• Ensures that all fish preparation areas stay in compliance with USDA regulations.
• Executes daily cleaning of exhibit acrylic and glass according to established protocols.
• Maintains Zoo grounds and buildings (e.g., vacuums, picks up litter, sweeps, scrubs, and squeegees floors, does laundry, cleans tables, restrooms, walkways and acrylic/windows).
• May assist with the cleaning of animal enclosures and brushing pools.
• Observes animals and reports any behavioral changes to Pinniped Specialists.
• Observes training sessions to gain a basic understanding of training fundamentals.
• Delivers educational interpretation messages, both on and off mic, to guests regarding animal behavior, habitat, and conservation topics.
• Enters daily feed and behavioral records into ZIMS database under supervision.
• Assists with Pinniped enrichment program as needed – cleaning, placement, removal of enrichment items.
• Adheres to all safety protocols within the Pinniped department and the Columbus Zoo.
• This position is designed to continue over 3 years, with potential for advancement to a Seasonal II or III level based on evaluating the demonstration of skills, knowledge of procedures and protocols, and the successful completion of graded tests.

As an employee advances, additional opportunities and responsibilities may include:

• Feeding animals in a protected-contact setting
• Feeding animals in a free-contact setting
• Learning and practicing established behaviors with animals
• Learning and performing animal welfare assessments
• Learning how to write-up behavior plans
• Learning to lead behind-the-scenes tours
• Learning the show script and participating as the Show Speaker
• Assisting the training staff with behavioral training
• Designing and building environmental enrichment devices (EED’s)
• Assisting in the training of new Seasonal employees
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• BS in zoology or related field preferred.
• New-Hire TB test required.
• Valid driver’s license with good driving record required.
• Prior animal care experience preferred.
• Strong interest in marine mammal training preferred.
• Previous experience with public speaking preferred.
• Able to perform heavy physical work for extended periods of time.
• Able to balance multiple assignments successfully.
• Able to work in varied weather conditions (i.e., extreme heat, cold, snow or rain).
• Able to work in humid and/or dusty environments.
• Able to work with a variety of cleaning chemicals.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent guest service skills, positively interacting with guests and upholding expectations around guest service program standards.
• Able to maintain courteous and helpful behavior.
• Able to work in a team and/or individually with minimum supervision.
• Able to maintain appropriate employee appearance (see uniform guidelines in the employee handbook).