Animal Ambassador

Position Overview:

The Animal Ambassador Team at NorCal Aquarium plays a key role in educating and engaging guests, enhancing their overall experience through memorable animal interactions. Team members are responsible for handling and presenting both aquatic and terrestrial species in a safe, engaging, and educational manner. This includes leading field trips, demonstrations and interactions, answering guest questions, and participating in animal enrichment and care routines.

Key Responsibilities:

Connecting Animals with Guests through Interactive Education ~ 75% of day:

• Share fun and educational information about each animal, inspiring curiosity and connection.
• Lead live, interactive presentations that bring animals to visitors of all ages, highlighting their behaviors, adaptations, and unique traits in an engaging way.
• Engage with a wide variety of species, ensuring safe and positive experiences for both animals and guests.
• Interact with guests by answering questions, facilitating learning moments, and providing insight into animal behavior and care.
• Support school field trips, group tours, and special events.
• Lead guest snorkel experiences, ensuring safe, informative, and engaging in-water interactions with aquatic species.

Animal Care & Enrichment – up to 25% of day:

• Assist with daily care routines of ambassador animals, including feeding, cleaning enclosures, and observing animal health.
• Help implement enrichment activities and engagement schedules.
• Work closely with animal care staff to ensure animals are healthy, comfortable, and well-prepared for guest interactions.

Safety & Protocol Compliance:

• Follow all established safety protocols for animal handling, guest interactions, and facility procedures.
• Ensure the safety of both animals and visitors through calm, confident, and professional conduct.
• Participate in ongoing training to remain current with best practices.

Team Collaboration & Communication:

• Collaborate with team members to ensure smooth and consistent animal interactions.
• Support the development of educational and interactive content.
• Communicate effectively to share observations, feedback, and opportunities for enhancing guest experiences.
• Assist with maintaining compliance with applicable animal handling and safety regulations.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience:

• College degree or current enrollment in a related field preferred.
• Experience with animals in a zoo, aquarium, or animal care setting is highly desirable.
• Experience in public speaking, education, or customer service is a plus.

Skills & Attributes:

• Passion for animals and engaging educational experiences.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to remain calm and professional in dynamic situations.
• Comfortable handling a variety of species.
• Works well independently and collaboratively.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Able to stand and move for extended periods.
• Comfortable working indoors and outdoors.
• Able to bend, kneel, and crouch for animal handling tasks.
• Willingness to work in aquatic areas.

Additional Information:

• Requires flexible scheduling, including weekends, evenings, and holidays.
• Background check and/or drug testing may be required.
• Duties may change as needed to meet operational goals.