Senior Animal Care Professional - Aquatics

Senior Animal Care Professional – Aquatics (Full‑Time)

Join the Zoo Tampa Team as a senior aquatics animal care professional. Your deep expertise in aquatic husbandry, SCUBA, and animal behavior will shape animal welfare, team development, and operational excellence in complex aquatic habitats.

The Senior Animal Care Professional is responsible for the daily care and feeding of assigned aquatic animals, maintenance of animal habitats, behavioral observation, record keeping, enrichment, training, assistance with veterinary procedures, operation of utility vehicles, and guest interactions.

• Advanced husbandry care of assigned aquatic animals, including diet preparation and distribution.
• Close observation of animal behaviors with focus on appetite, mobility, and waste production to monitor health.
• Advanced animal capture, restraint, and handling techniques.
• Engage with Zoo guests at habitats, encounters, chats, training demonstrations, and/or connections.
• Maintain detailed daily records on assigned animals and assist registrar in area’s record keeping.
• Inspect, clean, and maintain both exhibit and off‑exhibit areas.
• Propose and perform species‑specific enrichment.
• Lead, coach, and assist in the development of co‑workers and promote a positive, collaborative environment.
• Assist in animal procedures including trans‑locations, veterinary procedures, and crating.
• Respond to and assist management in emergency situations (e.g., Code I, II, III).
• Support media relations as needed and assist with external conservation programs.

• Bring advanced aquatics experience—including SCUBA certification, aquatic husbandry, and confidence working in and around diverse aquatic systems and species.
• Excel in animal behavior, operant conditioning, and detailed observational assessment across aquatic and mixed‑species environments.
• Enjoy leading, coaching, and developing teammates, elevating standards and supporting a collaborative, mission‑driven culture.

• High school diploma or GED; AA degree or higher preferred.
• Five or more years paid keeper experience in an AZA‑accredited institution.
• SCUBA and First‑Aid Certification required for aquatics and manatee teams.
• Proficiency in Word and Spreadsheet software.
• Strong written and oral communication skills; self‑motivated, goal‑oriented, and able to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to apply animal training using operant and classical conditioning.
• Knowledge of AZA standards, safety protocols, and animal welfare best practices.
• Physical ability to work in extreme weather, lift up to 50 lb, and perform varied physical tasks.
• Willingness to work nights, weekends, and travel for special events.

• Medical, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance plans.
• 403(b) retirement plan.
• Generous paid time off and wellness benefits.
• Employee assistance program, tuition forgiveness, free gym membership.
• Free admission to Zoo Tampa, MOSI, and the Florida Aquarium, plus discounted local attractions.
• Auto insurance discounts.

Equal Opportunity Employer & Drug‑Free Workplace