Marine Mammal Trainer I: Hands-on Care & Guest Programs

Mississippi Aquarium; Gulfport (MS); On-site; USD 38,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO 26 days

Health Insurance

Disability Insurance

Aquarium membership

Complimentary tickets

Cafe discount

Gift shop discount

Uniform stipend

Job summary

Mississippi Aquarium in Gulfport seeks a Marine Mammal Trainer Level I to assist Curators of Marine Mammals in daily animal care and training routines. You’ll maintain health records, water quality data, and observe welfare and behavior while adhering to AMMPA standards.

Under supervision, you will participate in training progressions, support guest interactions, and help develop engaging educational programs for visitors, while maintaining safety and professionalism across all areas.

Qualifications

• Requires a four-year degree in aquatic sciences, zoology, biology, or psychology.
• One or more years of full-time animal care experience from an AMMPA/AZA accredited facility or equivalent.
• Certified SCUBA diver.
• Successful completion of pre-employment drug screening, SCUBA dive physical, and area swim test.
• Record-keeping experience, preferably with TRACKS.

Responsibilities

• Care for bottlenose dolphins, river otters, and other taxa as needed.
• Assist in training progressions under supervision of Senior Marine Mammal Trainers.
• Maintain professional behavior during daily guest presentations and interactions.
• Perform interactive programs and guest-facing activities.
• Support development of training projects to improve animal care and guest experience.
• Observe animals, document health and welfare, and identify abnormal signs.
• Understand safety guidelines and attend required seminars/tests.

Skills

Observation skills

Communication skills

Operant conditioning

Public interaction

Education

Bachelors in aquatic sciences

SCUBA certification

Job description

Mississippi Aquarium in Gulfport seeks a Marine Mammal Trainer Level I to assist Curators of Marine Mammals in daily animal care and training routines. You’ll maintain health records, water quality data, and observe welfare and behavior while adhering to AMMPA standards.

Under supervision, you will participate in training progressions, support guest interactions, and help develop engaging educational programs for visitors, while maintaining safety and professionalism across all areas.