Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
Timeline
Generic

Jay McDaniel

Kalamazoo

Summary

Dynamic performer with live experience with The Betas, showcasing strong stage presence and adaptability. Proven problem-solver and reliable team player, enhancing audience engagement through interactive performances. Skilled in animal handling and safety protocols, fostering a safe environment at Whispering Pines Mobile Zoo while delivering exceptional customer service.

Gifted singer with 9 years of vocal training. Successful in singing various styles and genres with excellent range. Self-assured and highly skilled at delivering solos for large audiences.

Experienced with animal husbandry, habitat maintenance, and guest interaction. Utilizes teamwork and communication to ensure animal welfare and visitor satisfaction. Track record of flexibility in dynamic environments.

Experienced with creating safe and engaging environment for children. Uses effective communication to interact with both children and parents, ensuring clear understanding of expectations. Track record of managing multiple tasks simultaneously, demonstrating strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Overview

7
7
years of professional experience

Work History

Band Member

The Betas
10.2024 - Current
  • Adapted quickly to last-minute changes in setlists or stage arrangements, maintaining professional demeanor under pressure while delivering high-quality performances.
  • Rehearsed extensively to ensure tight musical performances at every show, resulting in increased bookings and positive reviews.
  • Sight-read musical parts during initial rehearsals.
  • Collaborated with fellow band members to develop a unique sound and style, setting the group apart from other acts.
  • Prioritized regular practice of individual instrument skills in addition to group rehearsals, contributing to a polished and cohesive sound on stage.
  • Assisted with load-in and setup of equipment for live shows, ensuring smooth transitions between acts and minimizing downtime for audiences.
  • Enhanced audience engagement by incorporating dynamic stage presence and interactive performances.
  • Conducted market research to identify potential gig opportunities, expanding band's presence.
  • Improved band cohesion and efficiency with regular team-building activities.
  • Curated setlists to match audience preferences, maximizing engagement and enjoyment.
  • Used printed text and musical notations to memorize musical selections and routines.
  • Applied knowledge of harmony, melody, rhythm, and voice production to individualize presentations and maintain audience interest.
  • Achieved desired tonal and harmonic balance by communicating clearly with musicians.
  • Observed choral leaders or prompters for cues or directions in vocal presentations.

Babysitter

Neighbors, Friends, Family Etc
09.2018 - 08.2025
  • Played games, worked on puzzles, and read books to young children.
  • Communicated positively with children and guardians.
  • Organized and cleaned home after activities by picking up toys and straightening up play room.
  • Maintained a clean and organized environment to ensure the well-being of children under care.
  • Reassured children when upset providing emotional support and stability.
  • Handled conflicts between siblings effectively using conflict resolution techniques resulting in a more peaceful household.
  • Communicated with parents regarding children's progress and development, raising any issues.
  • Planned fun outings and educational activities to keep children entertained.
  • Fostered creativity through engaging arts and crafts projects, stimulating imagination and expression.

Pony Ride Worker

Whispering Pines Mobile Zoo
07.2025 - 07.2025
  • Demonstrated strong communication skills while explaining safety procedures and guidelines to riders before each session.
  • Increased repeat business with friendly, engaging interactions and memorable riding experiences.
  • Assisted in the training of new employees, ensuring consistent quality in pony ride services.
  • Facilitated positive interactions between children and ponies during group rides or educational sessions on animal care basics.
  • Consistently received positive feedback from guests regarding their enjoyment of pony rides provided at our facility.
  • Monitored guest behavior around ponies, intervening when necessary to ensure the safety of both riders and animals.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing safe and enjoyable pony rides for visitors of all ages.
  • Improved overall visitor experience by addressing customer concerns and implementing necessary changes to operations.
  • Ensured timely service by coordinating closely with fellow staff members during busy periods.
  • Promoted a clean, comfortable environment by diligently maintaining the cleanliness of stables and riding areas.
  • Provided exemplary customer service by responding promptly to inquiries, requests, or concerns from guests and potential visitors.
  • Maintained high safety standards through regular equipment inspections and proper pony care.
  • Developed trusting relationships with ponies through daily grooming, feeding, and exercise routines.
  • Adapted quickly to changing circumstances or unexpected situations while maintaining a calm demeanor under pressure.
  • Followed safety procedures for operating and loading and unloading passengers from amusement park rides.
  • Monitored passengers and ride operations and enforced safety regulations.

Zoo Crew Member

Whispering Pines Mobile Zoo
07.2021 - 07.2025
  • Maintained clean and safe habitats for zoo animals, ensuring their well-being and comfort.
  • Ensured guest safety by monitoring visitor interactions with animals and enforcing zoo rules and regulations.
  • Upheld the zoo''s commitment to conservation by implementing sustainable practices in daily operations and educational programs for guests.
  • Actively participated in enrichment activities designed specifically for individual animals'' physical and mental stimulation needs.
  • Enhanced visitor experience by providing informative and engaging animal presentations.
  • Managed emergency situations calmly, coordinating with first responders if necessary for guest or animal welfare concerns.
  • Provided excellent customer service to zoo visitors, addressing questions and concerns in a professional manner.
  • Kept cages, kennels, play yards, and grooming areas neat and clean.
  • Washed, trimmed, and brushed animals to maintain good grooming standards.
  • Supported animal wellbeing by caring for both physical and mental health needs through strategies such as regular exercise.
  • Monitored animals for signs of disease, illness, or injury and communicated concerns to owners.
  • Contributed to client retention by consistently providing outstanding customer service to both clients and pets.
  • Monitored animal behavior and completed examinations to identify illnesses, injuries, or potential diseases.
  • Educated visitors and staff on proper animal care and handling.

Volunteer

The Piano Cottage
06.2025 - 06.2025
  • Assistant Vocal Director for student concert
  • Assisted with special events and programs.
  • Used strong interpersonal communication skills to convey information to others.
  • Mentored students, fostering a supportive and inclusive team environment.

Tutor

Swim for Success
10.2024 - 11.2024
  • Provided homework assistance using specific curriculum and materials.
  • Supported students with helpful study habits and exam strategies.
  • Collaborated with students to complete homework assignments, identify lagging skills, and correct weaknesses.
  • Motivated students towards learning and studying to build self-confidence and reduce fear of failure.
  • Provided one-on-one tutoring sessions, tailoring instruction to meet the specific needs of each student while promoting independent learning skills.
  • Provided constructive feedback on assignments, helping students improve their writing and problem-solving skills.
  • Promoted critical thinking skills through engaging activities and consistent reinforcement of complex concepts.
  • Collaborated with fellow tutors to develop effective strategies for addressing diverse student needs and abilities.
  • Fostered safe and inclusive classroom environment where all students felt valued and able to contribute.
  • Utilized technology effectively in classroom to provide interactive and engaging educational experiences.
  • Encouraged critical thinking and analytical skills in students through debate and discussion-based classes.
  • Implemented strategies to manage classroom behavior effectively, creating conducive learning environment for all students.
  • Provided constructive feedback to students, promoting self-reflection and continuous improvement in their work.
  • Created positive and encouraging learning environment to foster love for learning among students.
  • Improved literacy rates among students through innovative reading and comprehension strategies.
  • Motivated students with accurate feedback and positive reinforcement.
  • Facilitated small group and one-on-one tutoring sessions focusing on academic subject areas.

Education

High School Diploma -

Kalamazoo College
Kalamazoo, MI
06-2028

Skills

  • Live performance experience
  • Stage presence
  • Audition preparation
  • Problem-solving
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Time management
  • Multitasking Abilities
  • Reliability
  • Zoo safety protocols
  • Animal handling experience
  • Patience and empathy

Languages

French
Limited Working
Spanish
Limited Working
Chinese (Mandarin)
Elementary

Timeline

Pony Ride Worker

Whispering Pines Mobile Zoo
07.2025 - 07.2025

Volunteer

The Piano Cottage
06.2025 - 06.2025

Band Member

The Betas
10.2024 - Current

Tutor

Swim for Success
10.2024 - 11.2024

Zoo Crew Member

Whispering Pines Mobile Zoo
07.2021 - 07.2025

Babysitter

Neighbors, Friends, Family Etc
09.2018 - 08.2025

High School Diploma -

Kalamazoo College