Director of Animal Care

Occupational Summary

The Director of Animal Care is responsible for the day-to-day management of the aquarist, forest, dive and LSS staff and their programs; provides oversight of routine duties, specific task assignments, coordination of projects, training of new staff, and other pertinent duties.  The Director understands and is familiar with aspects of husbandry and supporting operations and disciplines such as SCUBA, LSS and water quality, recruits and evaluates staff as needed and builds a strong team-oriented environment through positive management practices, and participates in concept development, planning, design, and implementation of new exhibits.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Direct all aspects of animal husbandry, care, and welfare of the Aquarium’s animal collection including LSS, water quality, and dive operations.
2. Provide positive and collaborative leadership across teams; recruit, train, coach, evaluate, and set goals for team members to foster professional development.
3. Participate in concept development, design, planning, implementation, and project management of new and existing exhibits.
4. Routinely and effectively communicate with VP regarding successes, challenges, and opportunities in all aspects of assigned responsibilities.
5. Oversee and participate in the research, development, and acquisition of animal collections, exhibits, and life support systems to advance the Aquarium’s mission.
6. Contribute to and execute long-term strategic plans for animal collections, exhibits, and supporting systems.
7. Develop and manage departmental budgets, monitor expenses and support capital planning initiatives.
8. Ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory, safety, and accreditation standards and recording keeping, including internal policies, AZA, OSHA, and dive safety requirements.
9. Serve as an active member of the leadership team, partnering with team members at all levels; participate in groups and/or committees including but not limited to the Aquarium Leaders Working Group, Strategic Planning Group, Exhibits Steering Committee, and serve as Chair or Vice Chair of the Animal Health and Welfare Committee.
10. Perform work in a manner that fosters the Aquarium’s mission and reflects its core values and service standards.
11. Represent the Aquarium in a professional manner and seek opportunities to positively engage with guests when in public spaces.