Sea Life Park - Senior Animal Care Trainer

Our story began 75 years ago when the Herschend family discovered wonder deep in an Ozark Mountain cave—and chose to share it with the world. Today, Herschend is the largest family-held themed attractions company, with 49 leading attractions and immersive experiences that reach audiences worldwide.

While each brand offers something unique, all are united by a shared purpose: Bringing Families Closer Together by Creating Memories Worth Repeating®. Our passionate hosts make this purpose possible through everyday acts of love and service—what we call Heartspitality®—the intersection of heart and hospitality.

As an equal-opportunity employer, we strive to provide environments where every host, guest, and partner feel welcome, valued, and loved. We firmly believe that words and actions matter, which is why all individuals are to be treated equally and with respect. 

We are currently looking for a:

 

Sea Life Park - Senior Animal Care Trainer

Roles & Responsibilities:

 

Senior Animal Trainer

Under the direction of the Animal Care Supervisors, performs a leadership role within demonstrations, habitats and animal husbandry. Responsible for educational demonstrations, upkeep of animal facilities, animal procedures, production value, staff appearance and presentation quality. Trains and maintains animal behavior and husbandry techniques for demonstrations. Gives clear guidelines, instructions and directives to less experienced staff. Maintains a professional and safe environment for animals, employees and park guests.

Roles & Responsibilities:

Supervisory Duties:

· Assist with the daily supervision of the Animal Care/Training team and any other assigned departments

· Lead by example, attitude, and as a representation of Sea Life Park’s core values

· Act as an approachable mentor and coach to all assigned team members

· Become knowledgeable of performing the essential duties of all assigned animal care positions and backfill these positions when needed

· Assist manager with hiring, orientation, training, and performance activities

· Ensure that all required meal and other breaks are being given in accordance with [State] law

· Assist with team scheduling and timekeeping activities

Departmental Duties:

· Carry out the essential functions of Animal Care professional while ensuring the health and safety of the animals, employees and guests

· Oversee and teach less experienced team members proper husbandry procedures, training methods, safety guidelines and show performance and quality

· Deliver top quality care and attention for the well-being of each animal

· Develop and implement new animal procedures as directed by departmental leadership

· Identify and report potential behavior problems and implements a plan to correct

· Successfully acclimate and train new animals

· Implement and carry out daily animal sessions, in accordance with the direction of departmental leadership

· Perform in shows or presentations and become comfortable speaking in front of an audience

· Oversee the safe and proper handling, restraint, and transportation of animals

· Conduct daily observations of animals and reports any abnormalities to leadership

· Document oral directives and effectively implement to staff

· All other duties assigned by leadership

Education and Experience:

· High School diploma, GED, or equivalent; Equivalent work experience will also be considered

· College degree in Biology, Marine Biology, Zoology, or related discipline preferred

· 1-3 years previous work, volunteer, or internship experience in an Animal Care or Training position highly desired

· Previous work experience with a zoo, animal park, aquarium, or similar operation preferred

Language: Ability to read, write, and speak fluent English, and other bilingual language skills are a plus.

Requirements:

· Ability to work flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, open to close

· Must have reliable transportation to and from work for your scheduled shift

· Must possess a strong passion and commitment to ensuring top-notch care for all land and marine animals; must always convey an unwavering commitment for exceptional animal care and wellbeing

· Must be knowledgeable in the areas of animal health, natural history and husbandry techniques

· Must possess general working knowledge of cultivating appropriate and safe environmental enrichment for various animal species

· Must possess exceptional customer service skills, with an ability to resolve questions, problems, issues, and concerns in a positive and pr