Sea Lion Keeper

Audubon Zoo is currently seeking an experienced, motivated and innovative professional to join our Sea Lion team.  The sea lion position is a full-time, year-round position and includes responsibility for the care of the zoo’s California sea lion population. 

Job Responsibilities

• Responsible for the daily care of 0.4 adult California sea lions including diet preparation, habitat maintenance, and medication administration
• Maintain and train new behaviors using positive reinforcement techniques.
• Promote optimal animal welfare through the creation and implementation of daily environmental enrichment
• Recognize compliance with all AZA standards of accreditation and Audubon Zoo established protocols for animal care including, but not limited to, diet administration, exhibit maintenance, behavioral conditioning, recordkeeping, and safety.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records utilizing ZIMS software program
• Perform weekly exhibit maintenance via SCUBA diving
• Maintain water quality and filtration systems working alongside the team’s Life Support Specialist
• Provide mentorship and guidance to volunteers and interns
• Maintain a positive attitude and team morale within a small team environment.
• Assist vet staff in medical exams, procedures and treatments as required
• Exhibit a high standard of customer service during public presentations on microphone and leading behind the scenes premium experiences
• Observe and monitor animals’ health and behavior, reporting any abnormalities to curator/vet staff
• Perform all other duties as assigned by the Curator

Job Requirements

• Bachelors Degree in Biology, Animal Behavior, Psychology or a related field preferred
• At least two years of paid professional experience in animal care at an AZA or equivalent facility with sea lion experience preferred
• Proven knowledge and application of operant conditioning techniques with emphasis on positive reinforcement training
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds
• Ability to work in all types of weather including extreme heat and humidity 
• Must be SCUBA certified and have the ability to pass a dive physical
• Ability to work weekends, evenings, and holidays required
• Willingness to serve on the hurricane ride out team