Lead Aquarist: Mentor, Manage & Enrich Exhibits

Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium; Springfield (MO); On-site; USD 28,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental & Vision

Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

401(k)

Paid Time Off

Employee Discounts

Job summary

Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium in Springfield, MO seeks an experienced Lead Aquarist to lead a Life Sciences team. Role combines hands-on husbandry with leadership, mentorship, and exhibit development for a 350,000-square-foot facility housing 35,000+ animals.

Ideal candidate has 6+ years with aquatic species, leadership experience, and strong communication. This full-time, hourly position offers growth and impact in conservation and animal welfare.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biology or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 6+ years of experience with captive freshwater and saltwater organisms.
• Previous leadership or supervisory experience.
• Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with operant conditioning and animal training is a plus.
• Ability to meet dive and swim requirements within six months.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily leadership, training, and mentorship to a team of Aquarists.
• Ensure exceptional animal care and husbandry across multiple exhibits.
• Coordinate daily operations, maintenance, enrichment, feeding, and recordkeeping.
• Collaborate with Curatorial Staff on welfare initiatives and exhibit development.
• Participate in veterinary rounds and support health assessments.
• Lead animal moves, introductions, and major husbandry projects.
• Assist with hiring, onboarding, and development of Aquarists, interns, and volunteers.
• Drive department improvements and leadership initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Mentorship

Animal care

Exhibit management

Communication

Organizational

Problem-solving

Operant conditioning

Dive requirements

Team development

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biology

Job description

Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium in Springfield, MO seeks an experienced Lead Aquarist to lead a Life Sciences team. Role combines hands-on husbandry with leadership, mentorship, and exhibit development for a 350,000-square-foot facility housing 35,000+ animals.

Ideal candidate has 6+ years with aquatic species, leadership experience, and strong communication. This full-time, hourly position offers growth and impact in conservation and animal welfare.