This position is responsible for the handling, training, and care of the marine mammal collection under the supervision of the mammal curator at the Alaska SeaLife Center. This position will also assist in rehabilitation cases as needed.
Education/Training Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology, Biology, Zoology, or related field.
- Minimum of one year captive marine mammal experience in a research setting preferred.
- Computer skills including MS Outlook, Excel, Word, Google Docs and database programs.
- Certified open water S.C.U.B.A. diver preferred.
- Must have valid driver’s license.
Essential Duties:
- Under the guidance of division supervisors and the Mammal Curator, this position supports the management, care, exhibition, and study of the captive marine mammal collection. This position is also responsible for assisting in the daily husbandry care and maintenance of rehabilitation and transient (short term) animals.
- Assist in daily animal diet preparations, water quality testing, and routine cleaning of animal exhibits, holding pools, food preparation facilities and marine mammal work areas.
- Learn and use principles of operant conditioning to maintain behaviors associated with research, husbandry and enrichment goals.
- Follows scheduled routine for training and enrichment.
- Under direction of the mammal curator, assist research staff in facilitation of research projects and the collection of data samples, etc.
- Becomes familiar with routine for animal care, food preparation, and clean up, including proper maintenance and sterilization of equipment.
- Maintains written and computer based records.
- Participates in educational presentations to visitors and the public on topics relating to marine mammal husbandry and ASLC operations. Provides helpful, patient assistance and information to the public.
- Unloading periodic deliveries of frozen food and maintaining freezer.
- Assists with the underwater maintenance and cleaning of the habitats.
- Cross trains with other husbandry staff for efficient use of staff resources.
- Understands and complies with the policies of the ASLC Employee Manual and other applicable guidelines.
- Performs other related duties relating to the Center’s goals and mission statement as required.
Other Skills and Abilities:
Ability to be organized, self-motivated, independent, and possess a strong desire to see the completion of projects. Exceptional time management/organizational skills; self-motivated; ability to communicate effectively with various levels in the organization. Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Physical Requirements:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Ability to swim, see and hear; stand and walk; stoop, kneel and crouch; use arms and hands; handle objects, tools and controls; and sit. Must be physically fit with a good sense of balance and be able to lift and move over 75 lbs. Ability to work with and around large, wild animals.
