Winter Seasonal Trainer – Wings of Wonder Bird Show
We are looking for a dynamic individual to join our team as a Seasonal Trainer with the Wings of Wonder Bird Show. Through the show, this position will promote the mission of the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden. In the off season, the bird show pivots to outreach and on grounds programming as well as training for those programs. This position provides support for the department thought husbandry, assistance with training and assistance with the programming.
Duties include: assisting the staff trainers with the care of the animals in the collection, to maintain optimum health and trainability; cleaning, diet preparation, feeding and general area maintenance. Candidates also assist with programming both on and off zoo grounds from October-March.
The ideal candidate will possess and demonstrate the following attributes: strong communication (both oral and written) skills; a positive attitude in the work environment and support a strong team environment; demonstrated initiative and a strong work & conservation ethic; appropriate professional appearance, attitude and personality to work effectively with Zoo staff members, donors, guests and the public.
Employment Details:
Hours per Week: Position is part-time, approximately 24-30 hours/week
Pay Rate: $15.00/hour
Work Shift: 8:00 A.M.-3:30 P.M. Sunday to Wednesday..
Duration: This position will run from October 3 to April 2nd, 2027.
MINIMUM DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Equivalent combinations of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job will be considered.
Education & Experience:
- Must have, or be working towards, a degree in the biological sciences or related field/or equivalent experience
- Demonstrated knowledge and successful experience in animal husbandry and experience using operant & classical conditioning & animal handling techniques
- Experience with avian taxa highly desired
- Prior experience with public speaking and/or guest engagement activities
Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
- Successful applicants must demonstrate excellent communication and problem-solving skills, while applying good judgment, to deliver animal care and guest experiences that meet the highest standards
- The ability to establish and maintain positive relationships with co-workers (including staff, interns, students and volunteers) and public in a professional and courteous manner
- Candidate must be comfortable with guest interactions and in delivering public presentations
- Self-starter with demonstrated initiative and excellent follow-through
- The ability to work a flexible schedule, including evening and weekend hours
- Be timely and reliable in attendance and performance
Working Conditions: Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a post-offer, pre-employment drug & nicotine screen, background check and proof of full vaccination status as defined by the CDC. While performing the duties of the job, the incumbent is regularly required to stand, walk, drive a car and utilize manual dexterity to use computer mouse and keyboard and other office equipment. The incumbent must use live animals in programs. Incumbent may be exposed to outside weather conditions and must be able to lift/move/carry up to 50 pounds without assistance.
