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- Tasks: Train and present Californian sea lions while ensuring their welfare and engaging visitors.
- Company: Join Blackpool Zoo, a leading UK zoo with a commitment to animal welfare and conservation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, full-time position, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on marine mammal care and inspire visitors through engaging presentations.
- Qualifications: Three years of experience with marine mammals and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team in a dynamic environment with career progression opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
About Blackpool Zoo
Blackpool Zoo is one of the UK’s most established zoos and is operated by Parques Reunidos, one of the leading, fastest-growing leisure park operators in the world. The zoo is committed to the highest standards of animal welfare, conservation, and education. Following significant investment and development across the site, Blackpool Zoo continues to enhance both its animal facilities and visitor experiences, offering exciting opportunities for experienced animal professionals.
Role Overview
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Marine Mammal Trainer & Presenter (Sea Lions) to join Blackpool Zoo’s team. This role will focus predominantly on the daily care, training, presentation, and development of a large group of Californian sea lions. Working within the wider animal department, the postholder will support the ongoing progression of the section, ensuring excellent welfare standards while delivering engaging, educational visitor presentations.
Key Responsibilities
- Daily husbandry and welfare management of a large group of Californian sea lions
- Training sea lions using positive reinforcement techniques for husbandry, veterinary procedures, and public presentations
- Delivering high‑quality, engaging marine mammal presentations that promote conservation, education, and animal welfare
- Monitoring animal health, behaviour, and training progress, reporting concerns promptly and accurately
- Development and implementation of enrichment and behavioural management programmes
- Maintaining excellent standards of presentation and professionalism both on‑show and behind the scenes
- Day‑to‑day operation, cleaning, and maintenance of marine mammal pools, including monitoring and maintaining water quality
- Maintaining accurate records in line with departmental and legislative requirements
- Working collaboratively within the animal department to support overall zoo objectives
- Providing a high standard of customer service and acting as a knowledgeable representative of Blackpool Zoo
Skills, Qualifications & Experience
Essential Criteria
- Minimum of three years professional experience training and presenting marine mammals within a zoological or similar environment
- Demonstrable experience working with pinniped species, with a strong focus on sea lions
- DMZAA course or equivalent qualification
- Proven experience in positive reinforcement training techniques
- Excellent verbal communication and proven public presentation skills
- Strong understanding of animal welfare, learning theory, and behaviour
- Physically fit, hardworking, enthusiastic, and reliable
- Ability to work flexibly, including weekends, bank holidays, and variable hours
Desirable Criteria
- Additional relevant animal training or behavioural qualifications
- Experience of working other taxa within a Zoo environment
What We Offer
- Competitive salary dependent on experience
- Permanent, full‑time position
- A supportive and professional working environment
- Opportunities for continued professional development
- The chance to progress your career within a respected zoological collection and an international leisure organisation
Marine Mammal Trainer & Presenter (Sea Lions) employer: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Contact Detail:
British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Marine Mammal Trainer & Presenter (Sea Lions)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team at Blackpool Zoo! Reach out on social media or attend any open days. Building a connection can give you an edge and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by brushing up on your knowledge of Californian sea lions and their behaviours. Being able to discuss specific training techniques or welfare practices will impress the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your presentation skills! If you get the chance, demonstrate how you would engage visitors during a presentation. This is key for the role, so let your passion shine through.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Blackpool Zoo family.
We think you need these skills to ace Marine Mammal Trainer & Presenter (Sea Lions)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for marine mammals shine through! We want to see your love for sea lions and conservation, so share any relevant experiences that highlight your dedication.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight your experience with pinnipeds and any positive reinforcement training techniques you've used. We’re looking for specifics, so don’t hold back on the details!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Be sure to mention your professional experience and how it aligns with our commitment to animal welfare and education at Blackpool Zoo.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
✨Know Your Sea Lions
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Californian sea lions and their behaviours. Understanding their training needs and welfare requirements will show that you're not just passionate but also well-informed about the species you'll be working with.
✨Showcase Your Training Skills
Prepare to discuss your experience with positive reinforcement techniques. Bring examples of how you've successfully trained marine mammals in the past, and be ready to demonstrate your approach during the interview if asked.
✨Engage with Presentation Techniques
Since the role involves public presentations, think about how you can make your communication engaging. Practice explaining complex concepts simply and clearly, as this will be crucial for educating visitors about conservation and animal welfare.
✨Be Ready for Teamwork Questions
Collaboration is key in a zoo environment. Prepare examples of how you've worked effectively within a team, especially in high-pressure situations. Highlight your ability to support colleagues while maintaining high standards of animal care.