The position of Dolphin Trainer I at Mote Marine Laboratory requires advanced levels of knowledge, with regard to dolphin care, dolphin husbandry and research training program, water systems management, educational programs, public relations, web pages, and exhibit displays. The successful candidate will be responsible for meeting, developing, and enhancing institutional goals in these areas. All employees must comply with the requirements outlined in the Mote Marine Laboratory Employee Policy Manual.
General Duties:
The Dolphin Trainer I will be required to oversee and/ or perform all tasks relating to the care and training of Mote’s captive dolphins including, but not limited to, feeding and caring for the animals in the dolphin exhibit, conducting training sessions, providing environmental enrichment, water quality control, exhibit maintenance, life support systems upkeep, record keeping, data entry, and maintaining good inter- and intra- departmental, intern and volunteer communications.
Will report any developing health or medical care issues with the animals to the Rehabilitation and Medical Care Coordinator, and will assist with routine medical care of resident dolphins, as well as administer any medications prescribed by the veterinarian.
Will be responsible for helping with the development of research proposals and for assisting in the development of other departmental fundraising opportunities.
Will maintain the existing captive dolphin website and will further its development.
Is encouraged to pursue continuing education opportunities, and present at professional conferences as appropriate.
Is also responsible for helping with the training and directing of the staff in the Dolphin Care Trainer II position and all interns, volunteers, students assisting in the Captive Dolphin Care & Research department.
Minimum Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree
Experience with the care for and behavioral conditioning for marine mammals
US citizenship or foreign citizen’s U.S. work permit appropriate for the work
Valid Florida driver’s license or ability to obtain in one month
Ability to lift/ carry/ move 50 pounds
Willingness to work flexible hours as needed
Excellent swimming abilities
Good verbal/ communication skills
Work well with others
Scuba certification is preferred
Interested applicants should submit a resume before Friday, April 8, 2011 to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attention Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 or electronically to HumanResoures@mote.org
