About Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)
WCS stands for wildlife and wild places. As the world’s premier wildlife conservation organization, WCS has a long track record of achieving innovative, impactful results at scale. We run field programs spanning 60 countries and the entire ocean. We build on a unique foundation: Our reach is global; we discover through best-in-class science; we protect through work on the ground with local and indigenous people; we inspire through our world-class zoos, aquarium, and education programs; and we leverage our resources through partnerships and powerful policy influence. Our more than 4,000 diverse, passionately committed team members in New York City and around the world work collectively to achieve our conservation mission.
Department: Animal Programs
Position Title: Trainer
Employment Type: Full-Time
Status: Non-Exempt, Union
Reports To: Supervisor of Marine Mammals and Birds
Schedule: Variable 5 days per week based on seniority
Hours: 8:00am to 5:00pm
Direct Reports: None
Position Objective
Perform daily Sea Lion Celebration shows. Provide husbandry/behavioral care and exhibit maintenance for animals in Marine Mammals and Birds division of the NYA Animal Department.
Principal Responsibilities
Responsibilities may include but are not limited to:
1 Prepare and provide proper feeding/nutrition to all animals based on developed
feeding protocol.
2 Make daily observations of animals and report any abnormalities to the staff supervisor.
3 Acquire knowledge and maintain a working understanding and proficiency in the
area of animal health, natural history and husbandry techniques including the
understanding of the importance of maintaining healthy animals through proper use
of environmental change (play, learning, exercise, and relationship interactions as
well as proper application of environmental enrichment.)
4 Develop strong awareness of all animal behaviors and appearances within the
division.
5 Develop animal conditioning skills and techniques. Maintain each animal's current
level of behavior criteria through effective observation, listening and training
application.
6 Develop proactive approach to behavioral husbandry. Anticipate behavioral issues
and discuss with supervisor, in order to curb potential problems.
7 Conduct and perform daily Sea Lion Celebration shows.
8 Function as a team member showing consideration, tolerance, cooperation,
reliability, and ability to solve problems. Communicate effectively with all members
of the division.
9 Maintain all equipment, animal records, and department notebooks on a daily basis.
10 Accept responsibility for personal, guest, and animal safety by bringing potentially
unsafe situations to the attention of the area supervisor.
11 Use SCUBA to routinely clean and maintain area pools. Assist other departments in
SCUBA diving to maintain water/habitat quality. Keep log of SCUBA activities.
12 Perform all primary as well as supportive roles in education and general public
programing. Interact with visitors, presenting a positive image for the New York
Aquarium and the Wildlife Conservation Society.
13 Assist with observation/training of new staff and volunteers.
14 Maintain a high level of self-motivation and a consistent professional approach to
the job.
15 Adhere to all New York Aquarium and departmental policies.
Internal Qualification Requirements
Job Qualifications
1. Bachelor’s degree in biology, psychology or related field.
2. At least 2 years' experience in practical work or volunteer/internship with marine animals in controlled environments
3. SCUBA certification.
4. Must have a current, valid driver's license
5. Must successfully pass a background check
6. Ability and willingness to work weekends, holidays, evenings, and special events as
schedule demands.
7. Experience working directly with marine mammals in a zoo/aquarium,
rescue/rehabilitation center, or other related facility.
8. Experience working with volunteers preferred.
9. Active membership in professional associations (e.g. AZA, IAATE) preferred.
Physical Requirements
The position requires work in outdoor environments in all weather conditions (including cold water). Must pass AAUS-compliant dive physical and swim test (400 yards in 12 minutes) within six months of hire. Tasks require manual dexterity and ability to safely use tools (e.g. computer keyboard, manual tools) and operate equipment (e.g. Operation/manipulation of dive gear, mobile radios). Some tasks require climbing, kneeling, bending, navigating uneven terrain, and moderate lifting up to 50 pounds.
Equal Employment Opportunity Disclaimer
WCS is an equal opportunity employer, and the organization complies with all employment and labor laws and regulations that prohibit discrimination in hiring and ensures that candidates from all backgrounds are fairly and consistently considered during the recruitment process. We are dedicated to hiring and engaging a diverse workforce. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment and look for future team members who share that same value. The organization provides equal employment opportunities for all qualified candidates. The organization does not discriminate for employment based on gender, race/ethnicity, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, genetic information or any other covered status or characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations.
It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure that we do not tolerate discrimination or harassment based upon a person’s membership in one of these protected categories in areas such as recruitment, selection, job assignment, supervision, training, promotions, job grading, transfers, termination, compensation, benefits, educational opportunities, WCS sponsored recreational activities and facilities.The organization complies with all Federal, State, and NYC laws and WCS’s employment policies.
