Animal Care and Life Support Specialist
Join the Living Exhibits team, where your passion for animal care and conservation comes to life! We are a leader in designing and maintaining immersive, interactive elasmobranch exhibits that engage guests while supporting conservation efforts. As an Animal Care and Life Support Specialist, you’ll play a key role in maintaining vibrant aquatic habitats, supporting animal well-being, and enhancing the Stingray Cove guest experiences both the Sedgwick County Zoo and Living Exhibits Regional Operations Center.
Functions & Responsibilities
Essential Functions
~Conduct daily animal husbandry tasks, including cleaning, feeding, and monitoring animal health.
~Assist in the medical treatment and care of animals.
~Participate in training sessions for animal behavior maintenance, using positive reinforcement techniques.
~Implement approved enrichment programs for animal wellbeing.
~Maintain detailed ZIMS animal care records in accordance with Living Exhibits protocols.
~Operate and troubleshoot life support systems to ensure the safety of aquatic habitats.
~Communicate effectively and respectfully with Living Exhibits staff, host institution personnel, and the public.
~Engage with guests to share educational and conservation-related information.
~Serve as a liaison with host facility staff to ensure smooth operations and customer satisfaction.
Skills & Experience
Knowledge & Skills
~Strong observational skills to identify health and behavioral issues in animals.
~Proficiency with basic computer programs (Word, Excel, e-mail). Knowledge of ZIMS software a plus.
~Basic water quality and life support knowledge a plus.
Education & Experience
~Bachelor’s degree in Zoology, Animal Husbandry, or related field preferred or equivalent experience.
~At least one year of experience in animal care, either through direct employment or internships/volunteer work in zoos, aquariums, or similar environments.
Job Requirements
Physical Requirements
~Physical ability to lift up to 60 lbs, work in elevated conditions, and handle tasks in variable weather.
~Comfortable interacting with the public, including speaking to guests and media about animal care and conservation.
~All employees of Living Exhibits are subject to employment eligibility and background security checks as well as testing for illegal substance use as allowed by law.
Working Conditions
~Position will split time between the Stingray Cove exhibit located at the Sedgwick County Zoo and our Regional Operations Center, both located in Wichita.
