Pinniped Care & Training Lead (Assistant Supervisor)

Mystic Aquarium; Mystic (CT); On-site; USD 57,000 - 59,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Supplemental insurances

Job summary

Mystic Aquarium in Mystic, CT seeks an Assistant Supervisor, Pinnipeds to lead the pinniped program, mentor staff, and ensure high standards of animal care and enrichment. The role involves supervising trainers, coordinating presentations, and maintaining detailed husbandry records within AMMPA/AZA guidelines.

The ideal candidate has hands-on animal care experience, supervisory background, and a professional demeanor representing the Aquarium externally at all times.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred; seven years' paid marine mammal husbandry experience, or nine years' equivalent.
• Experience in pinniped husbandry and training preferred.
• Supervisory experience and ability to guide staff and evaluate performance.
• Public presentations and program development experience.
• Strong communication, leadership, and teamwork skills.
• SCUBA certification required; able to pass a dive physical.

Responsibilities

• Oversee animal care, habitat maintenance, training, and records for harbor and spotted seals.
• Support husbandry programs for Northern fur seals and Steller sea lions; assist beluga and sea lions as needed.
• Mentor senior trainers and plan daily training and enrichment sessions.
• Maintain records per Mystic Aquarium procedures.
• Monitor life support systems and water quality.
• Coordinate daily operations, staff, volunteers, and interns; participate in evaluations.
• Develop staff skills and lead leadership activities through courses.

Skills

Bachelor's degree in related field

Supervisory experience

Public presentation

Communication & leadership

Microsoft Office

SCUBA certification

Multilingual ability

Flexibility & availability

Education

Bachelor's degree or 9 years experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Mystic Aquarium in Mystic, CT seeks an Assistant Supervisor, Pinnipeds to lead the pinniped program, mentor staff, and ensure high standards of animal care and enrichment. The role involves supervising trainers, coordinating presentations, and maintaining detailed husbandry records within AMMPA/AZA guidelines.

The ideal candidate has hands-on animal care experience, supervisory background, and a professional demeanor representing the Aquarium externally at all times.