The Guest Experience Specialist position will educate guests on the static and live exhibits and engage guests in relevant conservation messaging throughout the Aquarium. This position will use their public speaking skills to conduct various tours, sleepovers, public presentations, and provide exceptional customer service. This position will also interact daily with people of all ages and diverse backgrounds. This position is expected to work alongside other members of the Guest Experience and Education Team.  

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES  

• Create meaningful connections with guests and inspire learning opportunities for aquarium visitors.  
• Use public speaking techniques and skills to teach guests about the live and static exhibits inside and outside the aquarium.  
• Communicate with guests in a positive and courteous manner. 
• Follow all aquarium guest and safety procedures.   
• Answer guest questions regarding a wide variety of aquarium topics and assist in wayfinding around the aquarium. 
• Assist with the flow of foot traffic and congested spaces throughout the aquarium.   
• Conduct presentations, tours, and support other daily operational needs when scheduled. 
• Assist with special events and other programs as needed.  
• Represent Mississippi Aquarium in a positive manner by maintaining a service-oriented attitude and delivering exceptional customer service.  
• Assist in maintaining aquarium grounds and displays. 
• Open and close aquarium exhibits and monitors.  
• Attend all relevant meetings and trainings.  
• Utilize excellent customer service and innovation to address challenges and find solutions.  
• Work weekends, evenings, holidays, and overnights when necessary. 

QUALIFICATIONS 

• Minimum high school diploma or GED 
• Minimum 1-year experience in a customer-service based role  
• Excellent customer service skills 
• Ability to work independently and part of a team. 
• Must be able to work in adverse weather conditions, as well as remain in one area for large blocks of time.  
• Strong public speaking skills and a desire to work with the public.
• Comfortable in large crowds of people with diverse backgrounds and ages. 

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES 

• Consistently looking forward, focused, ready to listen  
• A heart for service, always willing to provide support to fellow team members  
• Must be able to communicate needs and issues effectively   
• Highly organized self-starter maintaining high standards   
• Have an awareness and interest in the conservation of aquatic environments and their inhabitants   
• Innovative, creative thinker; not afraid to propose something new and inspire others to do the same  
• Proactive in finding solutions, productive, and efficient   

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. 

Team Requirements:   

• Safety & Security - All Team Members are required to adhere to all Mississippi Aquarium safety and security standards.  
• Attendance & Appearance - To maximize the guest’s experience, all Team Members are required to adhere to Mississippi Aquarium standard operating procedures regarding attendance and dress code policies as it relates to individual job functionality.  
• Sales & Guest Services - Our forward-thinking business model requires listening and understanding the needs of our guests both internal and external.  To that end, we must always be focused on the guest experience which is the key driver for return guest visitation and increased sales.  
• Team Partnership - All Team Members are focused on supporting each other to complete the guest experience.  Therefore, supporting, facilitating, and participating in activities that promote team effectiveness is vital to our Organization.  

Physical Demands & Work Environment:  

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; taste or smell.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time.  The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.    

The Veterinary Technician is responsible for supporting the veterinary services department in providing medical care for the entire collection of animals at Mississippi Aquarium and rehabilitating sea turtle patients. The ideal candidate will represent Mississippi Aquarium in a positive manner, demonstrating enthusiasm and a strong commitment to all aspects of the position.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Provides medical treatments and performs daily evaluations of patients under the guidance of staff veterinarians.

• Operates and maintains all veterinary diagnostic and laboratory equipment within the veterinary hospital

• Performs laboratory diagnostic evaluation such as cytological and/or microbiological sample collection, hematology, parasitology, urinalysis and necropsy techniques.

• Helps with scheduling routine and emergent animal examinations

• Assists in maintaining the veterinary pharmacy, ensuring compliance with controlled substances regulations, removing and replacing expired medications and supplies. 

• Collect diagnostic samples on all collection animals at direction of veterinarian

• Prepare and ship out diagnostic samples to external laboratories as needed

• Prepare for and assist in large medical and surgical procedures

• Assist with and/or independently perform necropsy examinations

• Maintains a high level of competency in the operation of all diagnostic equipment including digital radiography, ultrasound, and endoscopy

• Prepare and dispense prescriptions

• Maintain accurate animal medical records promptly

• Input data entry of test sample results from external diagnostic laboratories into medical records 

• Process research samples as needed, including cleaning/organizing the specimen refrigerators and ultralow (-80) freezer

• Maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for veterinary department

• Mentor and assist with training of volunteers, interns, and externs that participate in and support daily clinical activities.

• Collaborate with all MSAQ departments as needed

• Work with animal care teams on behavior training of animals for medical procedures.

• Attend professional meetings and conferences for continuing education and represent MSAQ by giving presentations

• Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications and Skills: 

• Graduate of an AVMA accredited veterinary technology program

• Credentialed veterinary technician (CVT/RVT/LVT). Out-of-state candidates must obtain Mississippi licensure within one year of employment at MSAQ.

• 1-2 years of veterinary technician experience in a wildlife, zoo, and/or aquarium setting. Alternately, at least 3 years as a veterinary technician in another setting. 

• Knowledge in day-to-day function and in a veterinary hospital, with a knowledge base of veterinary nursing

• Experience with laboratory diagnostics

• Experience with aquatic species and/or exotic and zoo species in any capacity

• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite (Excel, word, power point etc.)

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to take initiative and work independently in the absence of supervision 

• Follow written standard operating procedures and verbal directives

• Able to work indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions

• Flexible schedule to allow for working various shifts/hours including some nights, weekends, and holidays, as well as being on call to respond to emergencies

• Hold valid state driver’s license

• Access to have reliable personal transportation to allow for movement between worksites throughout the day as needed

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with using Tracks Software and VetRocket/RocketPACS

• Familiar with monitoring non-domestic animal patients under anesthesia/sedation

• Experience performing necropsy examinations

• Knowledge of medical procedures and rehabilitation of sea turtles preferred

• Interest in rehabilitation of animals and participation in research/scientific studies 

Physical Requirements

• Lift, push, and pull 50 pounds

• Walk/stand for long periods of time 

• Maneuver safely on uneven terrain or in tight spaces

• Safely climb ladders when needed

• Squat, bend, kneel, twist and reach

• Push and pull larger equipment

• Work outdoors in all weather conditions and adapt to changing weather

Note: This position will involve exposure to inclement weather, dust, potentially dangerous and unpredictable animals, potentially dangerous machinery, restraint devices, hazardous chemicals and/or drugs, and zoonotic diseases.  Occasional use of protective clothing or equipment will be required. For example, googles, mask, gloves, gowns, and other items as necessary.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. 

**Will be required to provide 2 written letters of recommendation if asked to interview**

The position reports to the Manager of Life Support Systems & Water Quality. The LSS Operator is expected to perform all duties of the daily LSS routine, including remote backwashes and system checks, equipment inspections, interpretation of exhibit parameters, as well as troubleshooting and correction of any parameters that are out of range. The LSS Operator is to assist in developing relevant SOPs and protocols, maintain and repair equipment, stock supplies, and aid the Mississippi Aquarium Animal Care departments with any issues as they relate to LSS. This position will provide regular coverage for select Water Quality duties, such as sample collection or emergency testing. The position supports Facility Operations, Animal Care and Veterinary Services to provide the highest exhibit quality for the animal collection and Mississippi Aquarium’s guests.  

REQuirements

Candidate must have an associate’s degree in an aquarium-focused college program, a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, marine biology or related field, or compensatory related field experience. Applicants should have experience in maintaining life support systems for closed-system aquaria in a public aquarium or zoo setting. Ideally have familiarity with both small and large filtration systems. Experience caring for, or working adjacent to, aquatic animals such as teleosts, elasmobranchs, and invertebrates is essential. Knowledge and proficiency with pumps, foam fractionators, plumbing, and disinfection / sterilization equipment is a must. Comprehensive knowledge of water quality parameters (fresh, brackish and marine) and how common life support components impact these parameters, is highly preferred. Lab awareness of basic water quality techniques, as they relate to zoos and aquariums, is a plus. Understanding of life support automation and its inner workings is a plus. AALSO certifications are a definite plus.

ACCOUNTABILITIES

1.    Follow established objectives, protocols, policies and operating procedures to ensure the most successful and efficient LSS operations at Mississippi Aquarium. 

2.    Assist the Facility Operations department in operations pertaining to the water quality laboratory and the life support systems.

3.    Assist Facility Operations and Animal Care teams by following a schedule and maintaining communication for routine equipment repairs, equipment upgrades, and backwash scheduling.

4.    Assist Facility Operations with saltwater make up via operating heavy machinery (crane, forklift).

5.    Under the supervision of the Manager of LSS/WQ, maintains equipment inventory for PVC storage area and tool shop used to rebuild electric motors, following regulatory guidelines and Mississippi Aquarium’s internal safety standards.

6.    Assist in basic WQ lab coverage, including basic spectrophotometry tests as needed.

7.    Assist Facility Operations with routine consumables procurement and maintain within budgeted expenditures. 

8.    Assist Facility Operations with training and monitoring of interns and volunteers.

9.    Communicate and maintain working relationships with guests, staff, supervisors, other departments, suppliers, professional associations, and colleagues in related industries. The desire to travel and present projects at conferences is a plus.

10.  Reliable transportation, the ability to engage with electronic communications, and the ability to use a variety of power tools are required.

11.  Participate in staff meetings and provide input for improvements of the water quality lab, animal care and life support operations.

12.  Maintain awareness of industry-related activities, technology and trends. Maintain awareness of newly developing husbandry practices as they relate to water quality and life support systems.

13.  Undertake special projects and all other duties assigned by the Manager of LSS/WQ.

Team Requirements:

·         Safety & Security- All Team Members are required to adhere to all Mississippi Aquarium safety and security standards. 

·         Attendance & Appearance- To maximize the guest’s experience, all Team Members are required to adhere to Mississippi Aquarium standard operating procedures regarding attendance and dress code policies as it relates to individual job functionality.Tattoos and piercings must be appropriate and in keeping with a professional image. Depending on the work area, management reserves the right to determine that tattoos will need to be covered during your shift. 

·         Sales & Guest Services- Our forward-thinking business model requires listening and understanding the needs of our guests both internal and external. To that end, we must always be focused on the guest experience which is the key driver for return guest visitation. 

• Team Partnership- All Team Members are focused on supporting each other to complete the guest experience. Therefore, supporting, facilitating, and participating in activities that promote team effectiveness is vital to our organization. Consistent and proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) included but not limited to a fitted respirator, eye and ear protection, gloves, hard hat, harness, steel-toed footwear.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 60 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

 Note: Position will involve exposure to inclement weather, dust, potentially dangerous and unpredictable animal species, and potentially dangerous machinery, restraint devices and toxic chemicals and/or drugs. Occasional use of protective clothing or equipment is required e.g., goggles, mask, gloves, and gowns.

Position Description:

• This is a part-time, entry level position within the Animal Care department at the Mississippi Aquarium. Hire(s) will report directly to the area Curator, or any other Animal Care department staff member as directed by Curator. Animal Care Aide will learn and perform basic standard operating procedures for designated coverage galleries / animal collection. Animal Care Aide will rotate area of responsibility within the department as directed by Curator.

Requirements:

• Must have or be close to obtaining a bachelor’s degree in biology, Psychology, Chemistry, Zoology, or related field. Experience in maintaining terrariums, avian or marine mammal systems. Basic but broad knowledge of various animal husbandry care techniques and animal health requirements for amphibians, birds, reptiles, and small mammals. Must be able to lift 60lbs and able to navigate stairs and ladders.

Characteristics of the job:

Animal Care Aide will perform all aspects / operation of an assigned coverage area. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: diet preparation, cleaning, feeding, accurate record keeping, exhibit maintenance, management of animal health issues, display aesthetics and some guest interaction.

Accountabilities:

1. Adhere to all Mississippi Aquarium safety and security protocols. 

2. Perform objectives, protocols, policies, and operating procedures to ensure the most successful, efficient, effective, and professional habitats and the related operations for the Animal Care Department of the Mississippi Aquarium.

3. Communicate and maintain positive working relationships with guests, staff, supervisors, other departments, suppliers, professional associations, and colleagues in related industries.

4. Learn and apply the basics of aquarium science and incorporate this understanding into creating successful maintenance / care routines. Learn coverage routines for assigned galleries.  Maintain and report accurate gallery records. 

5. Effectively troubleshoot gallery problems with assistance from the other Biologists, Seniors, Supervisors, and/or Curators.

6. Provide recommendations for improvements.

7. Supervise interns and volunteers on occasion.

8. Learn and be able to perform Water Quality Laboratory SOP’s. Record, interpret and make corrections to water quality as needed.

9. Undertake special projects assigned by the area Curator.

Other desirable attributes:

• Current Driver’s License
• Open Water Dive Certification
• CPR / First Aid certified
• Venomous animal protocol familiarity
• Dangerous animal protocol familiarity

Campus Revenue Ambassadors are the first team members to interact with guests. This position will warmly greet and assist guests with purchases, scan tickets and membership cards at Entry Plaza, and help to create lasting photo memories for Mississippi Aquarium guests while providing excellent customer service. Campus Revenue Ambassadors must be energetic, sales-driven individuals who have experience working with high volumes of customers. They serve as a welcoming team member for all guests entering and help maintain crowd control.

 POSITION ATTRIBUTES

• Consistently looking forward, focused, ready to listen.
• A heart for service, always willing to provide support to fellow team members.
• Must be able to communicate needs and issues effectively.
• Have an awareness and interest in the conservation of aquatic environments and their inhabitants. 
• Innovative, creative thinker; not afraid to propose something new and inspire others to do the same.
• Proactive in finding solutions, productive, and efficient.
• This is a sales position, so you must absolutely be comfortable talking to people in person and on the telephone.

QUALIFICATIONS

·         1-year customer service experience preferred.

·         Basic math and computer skills along with eagerness to learn is required.  

·         Strong verbal and interpersonal skills (a people person).

·         Ability to be helpful and friendly even in stressful situations is a must.

·         Ability to work in varied weather conditions (i.e., extreme heat, rain, cold).

·         Ability to stand for extended periods of time while working with other team members in a fast-paced, customer service environment.

·         Ability to communicate clearly to a wide variety of customers and overcome language barriers.

·         Ability to work flexible schedule including weekends, nights, and holidays.

·         Ability to pass pre-employment background check and drug screening.

·         Must be over the age of 18 and have reliable transportation.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Ticketing / Scanning

·         Greets all Aquarium Members and guests with a cheerful smile and warm welcome as they arrive and a courteous farewell when they leave to provide a positive experience; addresses members/guests by name whenever possible. 

·        Sell daily admission tickets using handheld Point of Sale system, scans tickets, processes credit card transactions, verifies identification, sells experiences, and upsells new memberships and guest encounters daily. Assist guests with checkout at self-serve kiosk as needed.

·         Answers questions about the Aquarium, tickets, experiences, memberships, and special events.

Ticketing/Scan Cont.

·         Notifies supervisor of any potential safety or visitor concerns, as necessary.

·         Maintain ticket queuing area – set up the stanchions and signage inside and outside the facility.

·         Maintain a friendly, neat, and professional appearance in accordance with MS Aquarium Image.

·         Perform job related duties as assigned. 

Photo Capture/Sales 

·         Set up and operate digital photography equipment.  

·         Adjust lighting levels and exposures in all types of weather.  

·         Stage and pose guests at capture locations.  

·         Ensure photo operations run smoothly and effectively.  

·         Work with guests of all ages and diverse backgrounds. 

·         Deliver effective sales and upsell photo packages 

·         Operate and maintain a Photo Point of Sale (POS) system that includes photo editing, printing, sorting, and packaging. 

·         Present and describe retail displays on photo kiosks to customers.

Virtual Reality (VR)

·         Set up, sanitize, and operate our Virtual Reality pods.

·         Sells daily VR attractions using Point of Sale system by processing credit card transactions.

·         Assist guests with equipment making sure that safety guidelines are in place to assure guest safety and enjoyment.

·         Interact with guests to upsell the VR experience to as many guests as possible and maintain the que-line. 

Guest Experience

·         Greet and welcome guests to the aquarium with a friendly and welcoming demeanor.  

·         Answer guest questions regarding a wide variety of aquarium topics and assist in wayfinding around the aquarium.  

·         Direct guests to photo locations. 

·         Ensure excellent customer service that exceeds MSAQ’s standards of excellence.  

·         Handle guest and staff disputes with professionalism and empathy.  

·         Monitor and control guest flow into small spaces around the aquarium.  

·         Work in a collaborative team environment, cross-train and support all other Guest Experience areas.  

·         Attending all relevant meetings and training courses.  

·         Assist in daily operations, including opening and closing.  

·         Work weekends, evenings, and holidays when necessary.  

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

TEAM REQUIREMENTS

·         Safety & Security - All Team Members are required to adhere to all Mississippi Aquarium safety and security standards.  

·         Attendance & Appearance - To maximize the guest’s experience, all Team Members are required to adhere to Mississippi Aquarium standard operating procedures regarding attendance and dress code policies as they relate to individual job functionality. Tattoos and piercings must be appropriate and in keeping with a professional image. Depending on the work area, management reserves the right to determine whether tattoos will need to be covered during your shift.

·         Sales & Guest Services - Our forward-thinking business model requires listening and understanding of the needs of our guests both internal and external.  To that end, we must always focus on the guest experience which is the key driver for return guest visitation and increased sales.  

·         Team Partnership - All Team Members are focused on supporting each other to complete the guest experience.  Therefore, supporting, facilitating, and participating in activities that promote team effectiveness is vital to our organization.   

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 60 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. While performing this job, the employee is exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. 

Location: Mississippi Aquarium, Gulfport, MS

Reports to: Director of Sales and Marketing

Internship Period: 12 Weeks | May 18 through August 10, 2026

Applications Close:  April 17, 2026

Job Summary:

The Marketing & Events Intern at Mississippi Aquarium will gain hands-on experience supporting the aquarium’s marketing initiatives and special events. This role includes assisting with social media, content creation, event planning, and community outreach while working closely with the marketing team to enhance guest engagement and promote upcoming programs and campaigns.

Key Responsibilities:

·         Assist with the planning, promotion, and execution of on-site and off-site events

·         Support social media efforts by drafting content, sourcing images, and monitoring engagement

·         Help coordinate marketing materials (flyers, signage, digital assets) with internal teams and vendors

·         Conduct research on market trends, competitors, and partnership opportunities

·         Assist in email campaign preparation and audience segmentation

·         Provide on-site support during events (setup, guest engagement, logistics)

·         Track and report on campaign and event performance metrics

·         Support other marketing and outreach initiatives as needed

Qualifications:

• Pursuing a degree in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Hospitality, or a related field
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Creative thinker with strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Comfortable with social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X)
• Ability to multitask and work collaboratively in a team setting
• Willingness to work some evenings and weekends for events

Benefits:

• Hands-on experience in marketing strategy and event management
• Exposure to real-world projects in tourism, education, and nonprofit sectors
• Networking opportunities with industry professionals
• Development of portfolio-worthy work (social campaigns, event plans, content contributions)

Department: Guest Experience & Education

Classification: Hourly, Non-exempt

Reports To: Assistant Manager of Guest Experience

Dates: May 11 – August 1

Position Summary

The Guest Experience Specialist position will educate guests on the static and live exhibits and engage guests in relevant conservation messaging throughout the Aquarium. This position will use their public speaking skills to provide exceptional customer service for people of all ages and diverse backgrounds. Additionally, the Guest Experience Specialist will work closely with other members of the Guest Experience & Education team and provide support for all areas of the Mississippi Aquarium.

Responsibilities:

· Create meaningful connections with guests and inspire learning opportunities for aquarium visitors.

· Use public speaking techniques and skills to teach guests about the live and static exhibits inside and outside the aquarium.

· Communicate with guests in a positive and courteous manner.

· Follow all aquarium guest and safety procedures.

· Answer guest questions regarding a wide variety of aquarium topics and assist in wayfinding around the aquarium.

· Assist with the flow of foot traffic and congested spaces throughout the aquarium.

· Assist with special events and other programs as needed.

· Represent Mississippi Aquarium in a positive manner by maintaining a service-oriented attitude and delivering exceptional customer service.

· Assist in maintaining aquarium grounds and displays.

· Open and close aquarium exhibits and monitors.

· Attend all relevant meetings and trainings.

· Utilize excellent customer service and innovation to address challenges and find solutions.

· Work weekends, evenings, holidays, and overnights when necessary.

Qualifications:

· Minimum high school diploma or GED

· Minimum 1-year experience in a customer-service based role

· Excellent customer service skills

· Ability to work independently and part of a team.

· Must be able to work in adverse weather conditions, as well as remain in one area for large blocks of time.

· Strong public speaking skills and desire to work with the public

· Comfortable in large crowds of people with diverse backgrounds and ages.

Other Personal Attributes Include:

· Consistently looking forward, focused, ready to listen

· A heart for service, always willing to provide support to fellow team members

· Must be able to communicate needs and issues effectively

· Highly organized self-starter maintaining high standards

· Have an awareness and interest in the conservation of aquatic environments and their inhabitants

· Innovative, creative thinker; not afraid to propose something new and inspire others to do the same

· Proactive in finding solutions, productive, and efficient

Team Requirements:

· Safety & Security - All Team Members are required to adhere to all Mississippi Aquarium safety and security standards.

· Attendance & Appearance - To maximize the guest’s experience, all Team Members are required to adhere to Mississippi Aquarium standard operating procedures regarding attendance and dress code policies as it relates to individual job functionality.

· Sales & Guest Services - Our forward-thinking business model requires listening and understanding the needs of our guests both internal and external. To that end, we must always be focused on the guest experience which is the key driver for return guest visitation and increased sales.

· Team Partnership - All Team Members are focused on supporting each other to complete the guest experience. Therefore, supporting, facilitating, and participating in activities that promote team effectiveness is vital to our organization.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate

POSITION 

Department: Animal Care

Classification: Full - Time, Hourly, Non-Exempt

Reports To: Curator of Birds and Ambassador Animals

Position Summary:

Mississippi Aquarium is looking for a highly motivated individual who will work well in a team setting. The Bird and Ambassador Animal Team cares for the free-flight aviary with over 20 species of birds as well as the Ambassador Animal Program, including animals like macaw, African penguins, turaco, conures, two-toed sloth, armadillo, beavers, alligators, and a variety of reptile species.

This position requires someone with 1+ years of experience either working with an ambassador program or with multiple avian species. The individual chosen for this position will be responsible for all aspects of animal care, including animal health, welfare, exhibit maintenance, enrichment, training, and recordkeeping, as well as providing excellent guest engagement through daily keeper chats and encounters. This position requires a candidate who is willing to be part of a team and will work to uphold Mississippi Aquarium’s three pillars of Education, Conservation, and Community. This position is responsible for adhering to all aquarium safety, protocols, and standard operating procedures.

It is an exciting time to join the Bird and Ambassador team at Mississippi Aquarium! We are currently in the process of building the Ambassador Program and increasing guest engagement, as well as adding several new exhibits including Beavers, Sloth, Reptiles, Amphibians, and African Penguin.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

· Provides care for a multi-taxa collection of animals through proper husbandry protocols involving daily observations, feedings, behavioral enrichment, training, and environmental enrichment.

o Animals under the team include birds (a free-flight aviary housing 20+ species of birds from around the world, African Penguin, Macaws, Conures, Turacos), mammals (Two-toed Sloth, American Beavers, Three-

banded Armadillo), and herps (alligators, a variety of turtles, snakes, frogs, and other reptiles).

· Participates and supports daily guest interactions by participating in Keeper Chat’s, Ambassador presentations, and Encounters.

· Helps communicate the aquarium’s conservation and education messaging.

· Ensures animal health and welfare through physical and behavioral observations.

· Maintains exhibits and keeps support areas clean, organized and safe.

· Complies with all SOPs pertaining to daily operations and safety.

· Maintains records in accordance with protocols or as directed.

· Promotes conservation, animal welfare, and good stewardship in daily tasks.

· Performs other related duties as assigned.

· Identifies and resolves problems with minimal assistance

· Undertakes special projects as assigned by manager(s)

Requirements:

· A four-year degree in aquatic sciences, zoology, biology, psychology or related field

· 0-1+ years of experience working at a zoo or aquarium setting or equivalent aquaculture facility to qualify for an Associate Animal Care Specialist (I).

· 2+ years of experience working at a zoo or aquarium setting or equivalent aquaculture facility to qualify for an Animal Care Specialist (II).

· Experience ambassador programs is preferred.

· Successful completion of pre-employment drug screening and SCUBA dive physical

· Multi-taxa knowledge of a large variety of birds, mammals, birds, reptiles.

· Detailed knowledge of operant conditioning and positive reinforcement animal behavioral conditioning techniques

· Record-keeping, collection management experience.

· Familiarity with basic medications and administration.

· Knowledge of proper animal conformation & body conditions, gestation/incubation periods and nutrition.

· Excellent observation and communication skills

· Strong interpersonal skills and ethics that generate and sustain a positive team atmosphere and professional environment

· A valid driver’s license and the ability to travel if necessary

· Valid SCUBA certification preferred but not required.

· Ability to work weekends, holidays, days closed due to inclement weather, and to travel for extended periods of time to perform collecting and other duties.

· Experience in preparing and conducting public educational programs.

· Able to lift a minimum of sixty (60) pounds.

· Strong command of the English language, both written and verbal.

Note: Position will involve exposure to inclement weather, dust, potentially dangerous and unpredictable animal species, and potentially dangerous machinery, restraint devices and toxic chemicals and/or drugs. Occasional use of protective clothing or equipment is required e.g. goggles, mask, gloves, and gowns.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Team Requirements:

· Safety & Security - All Team Members are required to adhere to all Mississippi Aquarium safety and security standards.

· Attendance & Appearance - To maximize the guest’s experience, all Team Members are required to adhere to Mississippi Aquarium standard operating procedures regarding attendance and dress code policies as it relates to individual job functionality.

· Sales & Guest Services - Our forward-thinking business model requires listening and understanding the needs of our guests both internal and external. To that end, we must always be focused on the guest experience which is the key driver for return guest visitation and increased sales.

· Team Partnership - All Team Members are focused on supporting each other to complete the guest experience. Therefore, supporting, facilitating, and participating in activities that promote team effectiveness is vital to our Organization.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 60 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to

weather conditions prevalent at the time. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.