Animal Care Professional - Ambassador / Ectotherms Swing

Overview Animal Care Professional - Ambassador / Ectotherms Swing Do you enjoy conveying your passion for conservation to the public in an entertaining yet informative manner? Naples Zoo invites you to apply to be part of our team. The Animal Ambassador and Ectotherm department is seeking a full-time, team-oriented candidate. The qualified candidate will have experience presenting live animals, public speaking, and a strong background in operant conditioning techniques. Our current animal collection includes birds, small mammals, and reptiles. Prior experience with a variety of animals is advantageous but not required. This position focuses primarily on the Ambassador team with cross-training opportunities on the Ectotherm team. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Advanced animal husbandry and care of assigned animals to maximize wellness Observation of animal behavior to monitor health and wellbeing Notification of animal or safety concerns to the appropriate supervisor Maintain records in accordance with protocols and as directed Perform all area-specific standard operating procedures and assist with training staff/interns as requested Comply with and enforce zoo-wide safety protocols; report potential hazards to supervisors/managers Support veterinary health needs as requested Perform animal handling and restraint as needed Actively train approved animal-specific behaviors for husbandry, management, and veterinary procedures Actively participate in animal enrichment, including generating and implementing new items and submitting them through the appropriate approval process Respond to emergencies as assigned Knowledge of regulatory standards (USDA, FWC, AZA) and ability to recognize concerns and report them to the appropriate supervisor Interact with Zoo visitors in an engaging and professional manner, including answering questions, conducting shows, keeper chats, and special tours Provide support for education and conservation programming as needed Assist with special events and requests from marketing and development as needed Perform skilled assignments related to animal care and wellness; prioritize routines and projects with sound time management Effectively communicate with co-workers, supervisors, and other Zoo personnel Actively participate in area meetings Assist with project management as needed Optional: Apply to become a trained member of the Zoo’s Weapons Team Qualifications and Experience Associate or Bachelor’s degree in an animal-related field is preferred. Life experience may be substituted. Minimum one-year paid experience in an AZA-accredited institution or two-year paid experience in a non-AZA institution Positive, effective team member with professional working relationships Ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds and work styles Ability to work independently and as part of a team Adaptability to a rapidly changing environment and ability to stay positive under stress Self-motivated and goal-oriented Good written and oral communication skills Knowledge of animal husbandry, animal welfare, and operant conditioning Ability to work flexible hours, including weekdays, holidays, and special events Ability to organize/prioritize workload to meet deadlines Ability to drive a vehicle and operate small machinery Logical thinker with strong problem-solving skills Ability to communicate with guests in a kind, courteous manner Computer competency with Microsoft programs Ability to learn Species 360 / ZIMS data entry Physical Requirements Ability to work outdoors in South Florida weather conditions Frequently lift and/or move up to 35 pounds and occasionally up to 65 pounds; stand for long periods Ability to ride Zoo bicycles Frequent use of hands and fingers to handle, reach, feel, and manipulate objects/tools Ability to sit, walk, climb, balance, stoop, bend, kneel, and crouch Close, distance, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus Ability to hear, speak, and use a radio The duties listed are illustrative; omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment. Special Information Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance Naples Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The ADA requires Naples Zoo to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with the Human Resources Office. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Naples Zoo is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive company culture, and our team does not discriminate against candidates or employees because of disability, sex, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, veteran status, or any other protected status under the law. Benefits and Perks Company-paid life insurance policy of $25,000 Supplemental insurance plans available (disability, GAP, accident, critical care) 403B Retirement and Investment Opportunities Tuition Reimbursement Program available Complimentary zoo admission for employees and/or their families after 90 days of employment Complimentary and discounted admissions to 100 Florida theme parks for employee and/or their families 30% Employee Discount at Naples Zoo Gift Shop & Zoo cafes Naples Zoo 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples, FL 34102 J-18808-Ljbffr

Location: Napoli, Campania, IT

Posted Date: 9/7/2025