New

Cat Ambassador Program Trainer

Cincinnati Zoo
life insurance, paid time off, 401(k)
United States, Ohio, Cincinnati
3400 Vine Street (Show on map)
Aug 11, 2025
Cat Ambassador Program Trainer The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden's cheetah running program is one-of-a-kind in United States zoos! We are looking for a dynamic individual to join our team as a Cat Ambassador Program Trainer. The position will promote the mission of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden through activities of the Cat Ambassador Program, specifically the Cheetah Encounter presentation. The Cheetah Encounter is a 15-25 minute guest experience that features cheetahs running at high speeds. During the Cheetah Encounter visitors hear about the Zoo's role in African wildlife conservation and how our zoo visitors can make a difference in global conservation efforts. Guest appearances are made by the other Ambassador Animals that call the Cat Ambassador Program home, including a red river hog, a Cape porcupine, African servals, and a bat-eared fox. In addition to the on-site care and programming for our animals, this position supports the program by training our ambassador cheetahs to participate in programs at an off-site running space. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Assisting in the care of the animals in the Cat Ambassador Program collection, to support & maintain optimum health and trainability. Cleaning, diet preparation, feeding and general area maintenance. Training of the Cat Ambassador Program animals for on-grounds and off-grounds programming and presenting the above-mentioned programs. Incorporating the best practices of interpretive and environmental education methods. Supervising part-time employees, seasonal or volunteer educators. Implementing strategies designed to accomplish yearly budgetary and strategic goals. Duties supporting the Cat Ambassador Experience include preparing props; releasing and securing animals; presenting & engaging the audience during the show, and leading visitors in participatory activities. Qualifications & Desired Skills: Education & Experience An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to perform the essential duties of the job successfully will be considered. A degree in a related field and/or Moorpark College, EATM graduate or equivalent certificate/training, preferred. One year of experience in animal training, general care and maintenance of ambassador carnivores, preferably felid species. Prior experience with ambassador cheetahs and lure coursing cheetahs highly desirable. Previous public speaking experience in a show or outreach setting is required. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: A positive mindset & demonstrated support of a strong team environment are must-haves! A strong conservation ethic and enthusiasm for wildlife. Ability to effectively use Windows-based software and applications is required. Strong organizational, interpersonal and communication skills. Attention to detail along with strong planning skills, including ability to manage multiple responsibilities at the same time. Must be timely and reliable in attendance and performance. A demonstrated ability to develop and sustain effective working relationships within the organization; ability to work with diverse personalities; tactful; mature; flexible. Ability to work well with staff, volunteers, Zoo donors and prospects, as well as the general public. Have a demonstrated affinity for the Mission of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden and our Core Values. Working Conditions: Employment is contingent upon passing a pre-employment, post-offer drug & nicotine screen, background check and proof of full vaccination for COVID as defined by the CDC. While performing the duties of the job, the incumbent is regularly required to stand, walk, bend, lift, carry, drive a car and utilize manual dexterity to use computer mouse and keyboard and other office equipment. The incumbent must use live animals in programs. Incumbent may be exposed to outside weather conditions and must be able to lift/move/carry up to 50 pounds without assistance. Requires the ability to work a flexible schedule, including evening and weekend hours, and the ability to travel with limited notice; Requires a valid driver's license with an insurable driving record. Key Position Details & Benefits: This position is full-time, hourly, non-exempt, and eligible for the Zoo's benefit programs for non-union employees at the first of the month following date of hire. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that supports employee "Total-Well-Being," including affordable medical dental & vision coverage; 401(k) plan with company match; flexible spending accounts; company-paid disability & life insurance; generous paid time off (PTO), park discounts and free passes. There are 2 steps for applying to this position: All qualified applicants must apply via our online application on our website at http://cincinnatizoo.org/about-us/job-opportunities/. Cover letter and resume should be attached to your online application. Each applicant must also create a video of themselves presenting a program to the public (or create one presenting their favorite animal or animal topic) and post on Youtube.com. Please include the date of the event, description of the setting and the number of people in attendance (if any), as well as the link to the video. Videos are intended to show off candidate presentations skills, so presentations should be audible and the candidate should be easily identifiable. Applications without video presentations will not be considered. *Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so please apply soon!*