Lead Aquarium Curator: Exhibits, Welfare & Conservation

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

Benefits offered by this job

Excellent Health Care Options

Paid Time Off

Merlin Magic Pass

Recognition Programs and Rewards

401(k) Program

Tuition Reimbursement

Learning and Advancement Opportunities

Job summary

SEA LIFE New Jersey, part of Merlin Entertainments, seeks a Curator to lead the curatorial team, animal collection, and immersive displays while upholding world-class welfare standards. The role reports to the General Manager with a dotted line to the North America conservation leadership and collaborates with site leadership, operations, and global conservation teams to drive the brand forward.

This senior position requires strategic leadership, extensive animal-care experience, and expertise

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or two-year certification in aquarium/zoological science preferred.
• Minimum 5+ years supervisory/management experience in a related setting.
• Strong knowledge of life support systems, water quality, and aquatic animal welfare.
• Experience leading AZA-related standards or accreditation processes is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead curatorial team and animal collection to meet welfare standards.
• Oversee displays development and guest engagement initiatives.
• Collaborate with Education, Conservation, and Operations teams on programs.
• Manage budgets and capital expenditures to deliver EBITA targets.
• Ensure safety and compliance with SEA LIFE Dive Policy and regional safety boards.
• Drive continuous improvement through KPI monitoring and staff development.
• Represent SEA LIFE New Jersey across media and public forums.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Public speaking

Project management

Stakeholder collaboration

Aquatic display development

Education program coordination

Problem solving

Education

B.A./B.S. in Life Sciences or Aquarium/Zoological certificate

Tools

LSS maintenance knowledge

Diving safety & program management

Job description

SEA LIFE New Jersey, part of Merlin Entertainments, seeks a Curator to lead the curatorial team, animal collection, and immersive displays while upholding world-class welfare standards. The role reports to the General Manager with a dotted line to the North America conservation leadership and collaborates with site leadership, operations, and global conservation teams to drive the brand forward.

This senior position requires strategic leadership, extensive animal-care experience, and expertise