Seasonal Pinniped Care & Education Specialist

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium; Powell (OH); On-site; USD 17,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Powell, Ohio, seeks a seasonal Pinniped Care Assistant to support daily care, guest education, and enrichment of California sea lions and harbor seals. You will work in a fast-paced team, gain hands-on experience in marine mammal care, conservation education, and zoo operations while advancing your skills.

Responsibilities include preparing diets for nine sea lions and three harbor seals, maintaining fish prep areas, cleaning enclosures, recording food, weight, and

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• New‑hire TB test required, with an annual TB test required thereafter.
• Valid driver’s license with good driving record required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare animal diets for 9 California sea lions and 3 Harbor seals, including thawing, weighing, and handling multiple fish and invertebrates.
• Ensure fish preparation areas remain in compliance with USDA regulations.
• Assist with cleaning animal enclosures, brushing pools, and supporting the pinniped enrichment program through cleaning, placement and removal of enrichment items.
• Observe animals and report behavioral changes to Pinniped Specialists.
• Execute daily cleaning of exhibit acrylic and glass according to established protocols.
• Maintain Zoo grounds and buildings by vacuuming, picking up litter, sweeping, scrubbing and squeegeeing floors, doing laundry, and cleaning tables, restrooms, walkways, acrylic, and windows.
• Deliver educational interpretation messages, both on and off mic, to guests regarding animal behavior, habitat, and conservation topics.
• Enter daily food, weight, and behavioral records into the ZIMS database under supervision.
• Observe training sessions to gain a basic understanding of training fundamentals.

Skills

Excellent communication

Public speaking

Guest service

Education

Bachelor's degree in zoology or related field

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Powell, Ohio, seeks a seasonal Pinniped Care Assistant to support daily care, guest education, and enrichment of California sea lions and harbor seals. You will work in a fast-paced team, gain hands-on experience in marine mammal care, conservation education, and zoo operations while advancing your skills.

Responsibilities include preparing diets for nine sea lions and three harbor seals, maintaining fish prep areas, cleaning enclosures, recording food, weight, and