Animal Rescue Jobs in Surprise, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Description

POSITION SUMMARY:

The position requires a dedicated individual who will take direction from the Dive Operations Manager, Dive Operations and Conservation Supervisor, and Senior Husbandry Management in carrying out all aspects of the SeaTREK Experience, Maintenance Diving throughout the aquarium, as well as other related projects and programs. This includes all aspects of a VIP guest experience as well as maintenance diving and animal husbandry. Fostering a positive work team atmosphere, attention to animal health, exhibit excellence, and visitor experience are the driving priorities in accomplishing the goals of this position.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• As a member of the Husbandry team, you will lead by example by being patient, kind, humble, respectful, selfless, forgiving, honest, and committed when interacting with one another and guests.
• Participate in all daily aspects of the SeaTREK interactive program to include: creating positive guest interactions; upholding strict safety protocols; taking an active role in exhibit cleanliness and record-keeping, and participating in all other duties as assigned.
• Must be knowledgeable about underwater conditions, cautions, animals, and procedures that exemplify the highest standards of safety and guest experience.?
• Must follow all procedures to assist the guests down into the exhibit safely, wait for their queuing up, and lead them comfortably and safely along the trail.?
• Must accompany the group in scuba gear with safety equipment ready. He/she is responsible for assisting guests down and up the ladder as well as keeping an eye on them through the tour.?
• This position requires monitoring of the air systems and that the air hoses are always clear.
• Assists with providing the needs of all animals in the assigned area through regular feedings, administering treatments as directed by the Husbandry Management Team, exhibit maintenance, and environmental enrichment programs for the species.
• Responsible for cleaning and maintaining all exhibits throughout the aquarium, as well as maintaining all SCUBA diving gear and the dive locker.
• Assist with maintenance and repairs of SCUBA and dive-related equipment and maintains accurate equipment/repair logs.
• Responsible for the daily cleaning of all exhibits and habitats, as well as acting as support staff for animal feeding and guest interactions.
• Cooperates with Husbandry staff for animal care health issues, including veterinary procedures.
• Researches and suggests upgrades, enhancements, and changes to exhibit systems to the Husbandry Management Team.
• Keeps work area clean and organized and reports atypical animal behavior, exhibit status, or mechanical issues to supervisors in a timely manner.
• Interacts with and responds to public/media requests for information. Participates in education, public relations and other VIP programs including facility tours and lectures.
• Cross-trains with other staff within husbandry and animal health services.
• Comply with safety and security directives, policies and procedures set in place by the DSO.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.
• Works with Husbandry Team to learn aquarium department responsibilities and form a cohesive and efficient team environment
• Understands opening and closing procedures for the department and can perform these duties under little to no supervision

Requirements

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Age 18 or older with a minimum of an Associates' Degree (or currently pursuing a degree) in Biology, Marine Science, or related field and/or equivalent documented work experience at a reputable aquatic facility.
• Clearly speak, write and understand English.
• Possess the ability to communicate effectively - both oral and written - and the desire to strive for an optimal work environment through teamwork and dedication.
• Rescue Diver certification, as a minimum, from a recognized SCUBA training organization with a minimum of 50 logged hours of SCUBA diving.
• Current First Aid/CPR certification.
• Current Oxygen Provider certification. ?
• Ability to work a variable schedule including weekends, holidays and some evenings.
• Possess the physical ability to lift and carry up to 75lbs, and can work in extreme climates including under water for extended periods of time.
• Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team in a constantly changing environment as well as individually, with a minimum of supervision.
• A valid driver's license with a clean driving record.

PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to safely lift a 73lb (15lb underwater) helmet on and off guests.
• Successful completion of all pre-employment screening, including SCUBA dive physical and swim test.
• Can work in extreme climates including under water for extended periods of time.
• In good health and capable of performing strenuous and/or heavy physical labor.
• No history of allergy related to animals or plants, which might interfere with ability to work.
• Employee must occasionally lift or move, carry, push, or pull up to 75lb.
• Ability to stand for long periods of time, as well as walk.
• Ability to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
• Ability to balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, climb stairs, or crawl.
• Required to frequently talk and hear.
• No impairment of sight, smell, hearing, touch, balance and agility of movement which might interfere with ability to work.
• Specific vision requirement for this job includes close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
• Must be able to take directional cues directly or indirectly.
• Ability to work in an environment that may be loud at times.
• Ability to work in all weather conditions, including occasional extreme hot or cold, and wet and/or humid conditions.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Must exemplify core fundamentals of the Employee Promise, which states:

• I am empowered to take ownership of any opportunity to exceed expectations.
• I anticipate guest needs and pay attention to the details.
• I am on stage! (Smile)
• I have an attitude of gratitude.
• I get it right the first time.
• I display actions that are moral and ethical.
• I always provide alternative solutions.
• I am committed to learning every aspect of our product and guest services.
• I use the 10/5 rule; at 10 feet I acknowledge my guest's presence with a smile and at 5 feet I greet them with a courteous word.
• I use name recognition at every opportunity.
• I take personal responsibility for our surroundings.
• I am accountable for my tools and resources.
• I value the contribution of every team member.