Animal Care Manager - Aquatics

St. Louis Aquarium

Animal Care Manager - Aquatics

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.

Salary

Salaried

How to Apply

To apply for this position directly:

https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs/ViewJobDetails?job=141724&clientkey=DA34931F6397DE8D5D0065FB29973607

To view our other open positions:

https://www.stlouisaquarium.com/careers

St. Louis Aquarium

201 S 18th St.

St. Louis, MO 63103

Phone: 314.923.3900

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