Animal Care Manager - Aquatics

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.

Salary

• Salary, Paid Bi-weekly