Aquarium Curator

Merlin; East Rutherford (NJ); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health care options

PTO

Merlin Magic Pass

Recognition programs

401(k)

Tuition reimbursement

Learning & advancement

Job summary

SEA LIFE New Jersey is seeking an Aquarium Curator to lead animal welfare, husbandry, and exhibit development while shaping conservation initiatives. You will oversee LSS operations, monitor health and breeding outcomes, and drive a high-performing team aligned with Merlin animal welfare standards.

The role requires leadership experience, a strong science background, and a passion for guest engagement and conservation. This is a on-site position at SEA LIFE New Jersey.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a life science related field is preferred.
• 8+ years of professional aquarium or aquatic animal care experience.
• 5+ years of leadership experience in an aquarium, zoo, or similar.
• Strong knowledge of life support systems and water quality practices.

Responsibilities

• Oversee health, welfare, enrichment, and husbandry of aquatic and terrestrial species.
• Ensure compliance with Merlin animal welfare standards and drive care improvements.
• Lead collection planning, exhibit development, acquisitions, and population management.
• Maintain best practices aligned with AZA standards and accreditation goals.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team of animal care professionals.
• Drive safety, accountability, and guest-focused engagement across operations.
• Provide oversight of aquatic life support systems and water quality metrics.
• Collaborate with education and attraction teams to enhance guest experiences.
• Manage budgets and contribute to strategic decisions on exhibits and displays.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team mentorship

Safety culture

Strategic planning

Guest engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Marine Biology / Biology / Zoology / Animal Science or related life science

Tools

Life support systems knowledge

AZA standards knowledge

SCUBA certification

Job description

What you'll bring to the team

SEA LIFE New Jersey is seeking an Aquarium Curator

Are you an experienced aquarium professional ready to lead a passionate team and shape the future of animal care at one of the most exciting marine attractions in the Northeast?

As the Aquarium Curator you will lead all aspects of animal welfare, husbandry, exhibit development, conservation initiatives, and aquatic life support operations. This is a unique opportunity to oversee a diverse collection of marine and terrestrial species while inspiring guests through immersive exhibits, educational programs, and meaningful conservation efforts.

Qualifications & Experience

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Lead Animal Care Excellence

• Oversee the health, welfare, enrichment, and husbandry of SEA LIFE New Jersey's aquatic and terrestrial collection.
• Ensure compliance with all SEA LIFE and Merlin animal welfare standards while driving continuous improvement in care practices.
• Lead collection planning, exhibit development, animal acquisitions, and population management initiatives.
• Maintain and advance best practices aligned with Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) standards and future accreditation goals.

Inspire and Develop a High-Performing Team

• Lead, coach, and develop a team of animal care professionals.
• Foster a culture of safety, innovation, accountability, and engagement.
• Drive team performance through training, mentorship, and professional development.

Oversee Life Support Systems and Aquarium Operations

• Provide strategic oversight of all aquatic life support systems (LSS), ensuring optimal water quality and habitat conditions.
• Monitor key performance metrics including collection health, breeding success, conservation outcomes, and operational efficiency.
• Manage departmental operating and capital budgets to support business and animal care objectives.

Drive Conservation, Education, and Guest Engagement

• Partner with education and attraction teams to deliver impactful guest experiences and conservation messaging.
• Develop relationships with conservation organizations, professional associations, and community partners.
• Serve as a spokesperson for SEA LIFE New Jersey through media appearances, community outreach, and public presentations.

Shape the Future of SEA LIFE New Jersey

• Collaborate with local and regional stakeholders to develop innovative exhibits and experiences.
• Influence strategic decisions regarding animal collections and display development.
• Champion initiatives that enhance both animal welfare and guest engagement.

EXPERIENCE/QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Marine Biology, Biology, Zoology, Animal Science, or a related life science discipline preferred.
• 8+ years of professional aquarium, zoological, or aquatic animal care experience.
• 5+ years of leadership experience managing teams in an aquarium, zoo, or related animal care environment.
• Strong knowledge of aquatic life support systems, including filtration, UV sterilization, protein skimming, ozone systems, and water quality management.
• Experience working with a wide variety of aquatic species, including sharks, rays, jellies, seahorses, corals, cephalopods, reptiles, and turtles.
• Knowledge of fish health, quarantine procedures, and disease management.
• SCUBA certification required; Rescue Diver certification and aquarium dive program management experience preferred.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to engage guests, stakeholders, media, and industry professionals.

Benefits

• Excellent Health Care Options: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Paid Time Off (PTO).
• Merlin Magic Pass: Free entry for friends and family to our amazing parks & attractions.
• Recognition Programs and Rewards.
• 401(k) Program: Save for the future with company matching contributions.
• Tuition Reimbursement Programs: Get support for further education and career growth.
• Numerous Learning and Advancement Opportunities: Grow your skills and advance your career with us!

Pay Range

Competitive