Job Description
Position Overview:
The Animal Ambassador Team at Woodbridge Aquarium and Wildlife Center plays a key role in educating and engaging guests, enhancing their overall experience through memorable animal interactions. Team members are responsible for handling and presenting both aquatic and terrestrial species in a safe, engaging, and educational manner. This includes leading field trips, demonstrations and interactions, answering guest questions, and participating in animal enrichment and care routines.
Key Responsibilities:
Connecting Animals with Guests through Interactive Education ~ 75% of day:
- Share fun and educational information about each animal, inspiring curiosity and connection.
- Lead live, interactive presentations that bring animals to visitors of all ages, highlighting their behaviors, adaptations, and unique traits in an engaging way.
- Engage with a wide variety of species, ensuring safe and positive experiences for both animals and guests.
- Interact with guests by answering questions, facilitating learning moments, and providing insight into animal behavior and care.
- Support school field trips, group tours, and special events.
- Lead guest snorkel experiences, ensuring safe, informative, and engaging in-water interactions with aquatic species.
Animal Care & Enrichment – up to 25% of day:
- Assist with daily care routines of ambassador animals, including feeding, cleaning enclosures, and observing animal health.
- Help implement enrichment activities and engagement schedules.
- Work closely with animal care staff to ensure animals are healthy, comfortable, and well-prepared for guest interactions.
Safety & Protocol Compliance:
- Follow all established safety protocols for animal handling, guest interactions, and facility procedures.
- Ensure the safety of both animals and visitors through calm, confident, and professional conduct.
- Participate in ongoing training to remain current with best practices.
Team Collaboration & Communication:
- Collaborate with team members to ensure smooth and consistent animal interactions.
- Support the development of educational and interactive content.
- Communicate effectively to share observations, feedback, and opportunities for enhancing guest experiences.
- Assist with maintaining compliance with applicable animal handling and safety regulations.
Qualifications:
Education & Experience:
- College degree or current enrollment in a related field preferred.
- Experience with animals in a zoo, aquarium, or animal care setting is highly desirable.
- Experience in public speaking, education, or customer service is a plus.
Skills & Attributes:
- Passion for animals and engaging educational experiences.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to remain calm and professional in dynamic situations.
- Comfortable handling a variety of species.
- Works well independently and collaboratively.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
- Able to stand and move for extended periods.
- Comfortable working indoors and outdoors.
- Able to bend, kneel, and crouch for animal handling tasks.
- Willingness to work in aquatic areas
Additional Information:
- Requires flexible scheduling, including weekends, evenings, and holidays.
- Background check and/or drug testing may be required.
- Duties may change as needed to meet operational goals.
Job Tags
Full time, Flexible hours, Afternoon shift,