Dallas Zoo Management, Inc.
Wildlife Specialist II - Interpretive Programs
This is an advanced role for the husbandry, training, presenting and day to day operations in the amphitheater of the Outreach & Interpretive department. Encourages and facilitates a strong team, work ethic and positive attitude in the work environment at all times. The Wildlife Shows Specialist II will work with the team to ensure that animals are utilized safely and appropriately to delivering dynamic programming that conveys the Dallas Zoo’s Mission of Engaging People & Saving Wildlife.
SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Assisting with daily management tasks. Duties may include: animal handling and training, organizing and training staff and resources to carry out daily Zoo programming, completing daily reports, ensuring staff follow safety protocols and training procedures, and communicating personnel issues to the Asst. Supervisor and Manager as needed.
- Engaging and inspiring audiences through fun, exciting, and safe wildlife shows that promote the mission of the Dallas Zoo.
- Training and presenting for Wildlife show programming to both large and small audiences on a regular basis.
- Preparing and administering proper diets and supplements for the entire collection.
- Understanding and applying operant conditioning and primarily positive reinforcement strategies to train and maintain husbandry and show behaviors.
- Duties will include animal husbandry, training, and enrichment for a diverse collection of birds and mammals. Ensuring high standards for animal welfare and safety.
- Ensuring all aspects of the wildlife shows operation is running efficiently. This includes strong communication with the Guest Services department to ensure program scheduling is accurate, and are carried out professionally and always on time.
- Record-keeping and scheduling for animal husbandry, training, program usage, enrichment and various zoo operations.
- Ensure building maintenance and appearance of the Wildlife Show facility are “guest ready”, as this is an area where guests may be visiting regularly for behind the scenes opportunities.
- Effective communication and interface with animal health, nutrition, and various zoo departments as needed.
- Ability to work weekend days and flexible hours as schedules dictate.
- Other Duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in Education, Zoology, Biology, Animal Science, Psychology, or relevant experience strongly desired.
- A minimum of 2 years of experience in an Interpretive setting utilizing wildlife husbandry and training skills, with an emphasis on operant conditioning and positive reinforcement training, required.
- Experience with public speaking / public presentations required.
- Must possess excellent organizational skill and the ability to function in a dynamic and team-oriented environment.
- Must be able to work as part of a team and independently to achieve positive results.
- Must be able to walk, stand for extended time, sit, pull, climb stairs and ladders and carry up to 50 lbs.
- Must be able and willing to actively work outdoors in all weather.
- Excellent verbal, written, and problem-solving skills required.
- Candidate must possess excellent organizational skills and the ability to function in a creative team-oriented environment.
- Must possess a valid Texas driver’s license to operate zoo vehicles and reliable transportation.
How to Apply
Click here to apply
Dallas Zoo Management, Inc.
650 S. R.L. Thornton Frwy
Dallas, TX 75203
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