Position Summary
This position is responsible for managing the day-to-day aquatic husbandry operations in the Aquarium. Primary responsibilities include the care, wellbeing and management of all aquatic animals under the facility’s care; maintenance of all aquatic habitats; and positive management of all team members within the Aquatics Department.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Manage, support and supervise all team members within the Aquatics Department to ensure highest level of safety, courtesy, education, efficiency and operational readiness at all times.
- Manage activities to maintain positive representation to professional agencies, institutions and various committees.
- Ensure animal care and habitats meet compliance of facility specific policies and procedures.
- Manage the schedule of the Life Sciences team members to ensure adequate staffing levels are maintained for all animal husbandry needs and habitat maintenance.
- Train team members and equip them with the necessary skills, knowledge and attitude in order to perform effectively and deliver memorable experiences.
- Coach Aquatic Animal Care and Life Support team members in a fair and consistent manner in order to motivate and improve performance. Conduct annual performance appraisals to ensure personal and career growth.
- Monitor the Life Sciences inventory in order to reduce loss/waste, control costs and accurately communicate expenses.
- Proactively assist Curator in the implementation of new habitats and educational opportunities in order to maximize guest experience.
- Maintain up-to-date electronic records on animal health, water quality, system maintenance, system checks and stock reports.
- Monitor and identify the effectiveness of habitats, continuously improving upon animal habitats and animal care standards.
- Monitor and identify animal health concerns, disease diagnosis and water quality concerns.
- Communicate to Aquatics Curator, veterinary, LSS and water quality staff any animal care concerns to develop and implement a care and treatment plan.
- Assist in the development and implementation of policy and procedure documents.
- Manage emergency situations to minimize damage, loss or injury to guests, team members, animals or company property.
- Assist in the preparation of periodic reports for all Life Sciences and Department activities.
- In collaboration with Guest Experience Department and the Aquarium Foundation, ensure habitats and programs engage, educate and entertain diverse audiences.
- Work closely with the Aquarium Foundation to ensure volunteers and educators provide exemplary guest service and engagement.
- Perform daily dive requirements.
- Participate in management team role and responsibilities
- Other duties as assigned by Curator of Aquatic Animals.
Experience, Skills & Qualifications
- Five years + experience with animal husbandry required.
- One year + in a similar management role required.
- PADI Open Water or equivalent required.
- First Aid, Emergency O2, and AED certification required.
- Degree in wildlife/marine biology or relevant work experience required.
- Proven aptitude for developing compelling habitats.
- Experienced animal biologist/aquarist with a strong background in fresh and saltwater aquariums.
- Experience in the care of flora and fauna in a public aquarium setting.
- Experience working with relevant authorities and accrediting associations.
- Competency with Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- Experience managing large teams.
- Exceptional leadership skills.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong listening, presentation and decision-making skills.
- Creative problem solver who thrives when presented with a challenge.
- Energetic and eager to tackle new projects and ideas.