Zoological Specialist, Associate; Aquarist

Zoological Specialist, Associate (Aquarist)

Sea World Parks & Entertainment – Orlando, FL | $61,750.00 - $90,000.00 (Full‑time, Entry level)

Apply to join our dedicated team of animal care professionals and help bring joy, excitement, and lasting memories to visitors around the world.

• Support training sessions for a wide variety of zoological animal areas and programs.
• Perform daily husbandry tasks, including administering vitamins and medications, preparing food, and maintaining a safe, sanitary working area for all animal habitats.
• Responsible for food preparation and storage.
• Maintain and update animal records and equipment.
• Observe animals and report any abnormalities to supervisor and team.
• Provide and maintain a work environment that follows department and park safety guidelines.
• Assist in education and public presentations, including speaking roles in animal programs.
• Engage with guests, respond to inquiries, and promote animal care and conservation.
• Work with animals using behavioral modification techniques as instructed.
• Proactively engage in sustaining a safe and welcoming environment for guests and staff.

• Strong verbal communication skills and enthusiasm for animals and conservation.
• Comfortable speaking to large groups on stage; proficient with microphone usage.
• SCUBA certified; able to pass a dive physical.
• CPR training or certification.
• Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Biology, or a related field preferred.
• Previous marine mammal training or bird of prey experience preferred.
• Minimum 18 years of age.
• Valid state driver’s license and willingness to obtain a company driver’s license.
• Ability to lift, push, pull, or carry up to 50 lbs.
• Capacity for extensive walking, standing, and climbing as required.
• Ability to perform physical activities such as kneeling, squatting, bending, reaching overhead, fine hand manipulation, and cleaning duties.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather, including extreme heat or cold, and in the presence of fumes, dust, odors, and chemicals.
• Flexible schedule – including opening, mid‑day, closing shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Willingness to relocate or travel as business needs dictate.

Physical activities include kneeling, squatting, bending floor‑to‑waist or waist‑to‑overhead positions, reaching overhead, simple grasping and fine hand manipulation tasks (tools, keyboard, writing), lifting up to 50 lbs, and working in varying weather conditions.

• Paid Time Off
• Complimentary park tickets and passes
• Park discounts on food and merchandise
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Voluntary insurance options
• Life insurance
• Disability benefits
• Tuition reimbursement
• Dependent and Health Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Legal Assistance Plan

Sea World Parks & Entertainment is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability, or covered veteran status.