Zoological Specialist

Busch Gardens is a place of thrills, fun and positive, lasting memories. And that's just what its like to work here! As a key member of our team, you'll play a major role in bringing happiness and excitement to people from around the world. If you're dedicated, dependable and driven to deliver exceptional guest service, this is a place for you!

The Zoological Specialist is responsible for providing consistent care and training to a wide variety of species. The successful applicant must be team-oriented with a positive, supportive attitude. The Zoological Specialist promotes conservation through exceptional animal care, alongside a strong work ethic, positive guest interactions, and a professional approach. With four levels of Zoological Specialists at Busch Gardens, successful applicant’s placement and primary purpose will be based on experience and skill.

Hires may be selected for one of the following zoological areas:

• Veldt (hoofstock, rhinos, avian species)
• Birds West (avian species, kangaroos, wallabies)
• Birds East (penguins, reptiles)
• Jungala (orangutans, tigers)
• Edge of Africa (lions, hyenas, hippos)
• Cheetah (cheetahs)
• Myombe (chimpanzees, gorillas)
• Animal Connections (ambassador animals)
• Pantopia/Wild Oasis (presentation animals, capybara, giant anteater, squirrel monkeys, birds)
• Outback (houses animals from around the park as needed for medical or breeding purposes)
• Elephant (elephants)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Learn and demonstrate required training and handling protocols for applicable animals in protected and/or free contact environments.
• Follow all husbandry, training, and safety protocols for specified zoological area(s) including all necessary standard operating procedures and emergency response procedures.
• Ensure excellent guest experience by engaging in all aspects of guest interaction programs both on and off property. Public speaking is required.
• Ensure a proactive approach to maintaining safe animal habitats and husbandry facilities, including the daily cleaning, maintenance, and landscaping according to standard operating procedures.
• Create and administer animal enrichment to enhance animal wellbeing and training goals.
• Understand fundamental concepts of positive reinforcement training, with a proactive approach and willingness to develop further at each specialist level.
• Assist with the development and implementation of dynamic animal training projects and programs that serve to enhance animal care, animal management, & guest experience.
• Enhance animal wellbeing with attention to nutrition, reproduction, habitat, and behavior.
• Support conservation breeding programs as applicable.
• Participating in husbandry training for animal management program procedures, working alongside the veterinary team as needed.
• Demonstrate knowledge of and the ability to discuss the natural history of the animals in assigned area(s).
• Assess and report animal health, behavior, and enrichment via the electronic record-keeping system TRACKS.
• Offer solution-minded and professional discussion for effective communication with team members and management.
• Mentor and develop Husbandry Assistants and Zoological Specialists as assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional responsibilities depending on level:

• Participate as requested in animal outreach presentations, including school visits and animal appearances in various media and stage presentations.
• Understand advanced concepts of positive reinforcement training, maintain current behaviors for all applicable animals, and train new behaviors to completion under minimal supervision.
• Provide coaching and mentoring to park ambassadors as assigned.
• Contribute to the review process for park ambassadors under mentorship.
• Deliver department seminars and development opportunities.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

• At least 18 years of age.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet company driving guidelines.
• A positive, team-minded attitude and desire to grow in your career.
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal) allowing for efficient and professional communication with teammates and management.
• Excellent observational skills.
• A strong work ethic with an ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities appropriately and apply creative problem-solving skills as needed.
• The flexibility required to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• The desire to promote conservation messages to various audiences.
• Robust presentation and engagement skills to include public speaking and guest