The Coral Region Assistant is responsible for all aspects of daily care of the Florida Reef Tract coral collection at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, under the supervision of primary and head zookeepers. The corals are part of a science-based rescue program for at-risk Florida corals.

The hours for this position are expected to be up to 30 hours per week.

This position is a grant funded position that will last up to 9 months.

• Performs diet preparation, feeding, aquarium & equipment cleaning/maintenance.
• Maintains accurate records on animals and equipment, makes animal observations, and collects & records growth data. Makes recommendations to Shores head zookeeper (e.g. repairs/maintenance needed in public areas, cleaning supplies needed).
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and pay attention to fine details are essential.
• Reports potential issues or concerns promptly to supervisor including, but not limited to, animal health concerns, safety issues, and facility/maintenance problems.
• Practices good communications skills and has the capacity to work well with others while maintaining the ability to work effectively as an individual and follows Make It Great guest service guidelines.
• May prepare coral diets.
• May perform water quality testing and aquarium maintenance.
• Utilizes chemical supply products and follows standardized usage guidelines and safety information as set by the Material Data Sheets.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Experience in the care & maintenance of coral reef aquaria is highly desirable as well as an interest in wildlife & marine resources conservation.

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• B.S. degree in biological sciences, natural resources, animal science, or related field is highly favored but not required.
• Applicants must have a working knowledge of aquarium husbandry and water quality monitoring.
• Pre-employment TB test required
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs and work in inclement weather.
• Ability to balance multiple assignments successfully.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Must be neat in appearance (see uniform guidelines in the employee handbook) and maintain courteous behavior at all times.
• Ability to work in varied weather conditions (i.e. extreme heat, cold, rain, snow).
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends, evenings, and holidays required.
• Subject to Drug Free Workplace Policy.
• Subject to BMV check.
• Valid driver’s license with good driving record required.
• Subject to Criminal Background check.
• Able to work in humid and/or dusty environments.
• Able to work with a variety of cleaning chemicals.
• Able to work in a team and/or individually with minimum supervision.