Director of Animal Care

Occupational Summary

The Director of Animal Care is responsible for the day-to-day management of the aquarist, forest, dive and LSS staff and their programs; provides oversight of routine duties, specific task assignments, coordination of projects, training of new staff, and other pertinent duties.  The Director understands and is familiar with aspects of husbandry and supporting operations and disciplines such as SCUBA, LSS and water quality, recruits and evaluates staff as needed and builds a strong team-oriented environment through positive management practices, and participates in concept development, planning, design, and implementation of new exhibits.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Direct all aspects of animal husbandry, care, and welfare of the Aquarium’s animal collection including LSS, water quality, and dive operations.
2. Provide positive and collaborative leadership across teams; recruit, train, coach, evaluate, and set goals for team members to foster professional development.
3. Participate in concept development, design, planning, implementation, and project management of new and existing exhibits.
4. Routinely and effectively communicate with VP regarding successes, challenges, and opportunities in all aspects of assigned responsibilities.
5. Oversee and participate in the research, development, and acquisition of animal collections, exhibits, and life support systems to advance the Aquarium’s mission.
6. Contribute to and execute long-term strategic plans for animal collections, exhibits, and supporting systems.
7. Develop and manage departmental budgets, monitor expenses and support capital planning initiatives.
8. Ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory, safety, and accreditation standards and recording keeping, including internal policies, AZA, OSHA, and dive safety requirements.
9. Serve as an active member of the leadership team, partnering with team members at all levels; participate in groups and/or committees including but not limited to the Aquarium Leaders Working Group, Strategic Planning Group, Exhibits Steering Committee, and serve as Chair or Vice Chair of the Animal Health and Welfare Committee.
10. Perform work in a manner that fosters the Aquarium’s mission and reflects its core values and service standards.
11. Represent the Aquarium in a professional manner and seek opportunities to positively engage with guests when in public spaces.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

• Proven leadership skills and management experience
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are strongly required
• Technical ability to oversee and interpret water quality and all LSS functions
• Knowledge of aquatic and terrestrial biology and husbandry
• Understanding of dive operations and compliance
• Ability to be team player and communicate positively and effectively with peers
• Ability to think innovatively to assist in developing new ideas and exhibits including new species for exhibit

Educational/Experience Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in biological sciences or in a related field; significant experience in aquarium husbandry may be considered in lieu of a degree
• Minimum of seven years of experience in husbandry and exhibitry in a public aquarium, zoo or similar institution
• Minimum of five years in a management role
• Technical knowledge and experience with LSS systems and water quality

License or Certification Required

• SCUBA certification or the ability to attain certification within 6 months of hire
• Valid driver’s license required to operate company vehicles

Working Conditions

• Normal office environment
• Varying environmental conditions including humidity, temperature changes, wet and slippery areas, and marine environments.
• Exposure to odors including but not limited to biological odors, cleaning agents, etc.
• Exposure to potentially dangerous animals and animal-related hazards such as bites, scratches, and zoonotic diseases (while following established safety protocols)

Physical Demands

The physical demands described below are representative of those that may be encountered while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Frequent movement within office, clinic, and animal backup areas of the Aquarium facilities
• Extended periods of standing, walking, or remaining in a stationary position
• Occasional movement or positioning of items weighing up to 50 pounds
• Ascending and descending ladders
• Occasional positioning of the body to complete duties, which may include bending, reaching, kneeling, crouching, or working in confined or low-clearance spaces.

Full-time, salaried ($95,000/year); Monday-Friday; Some weekends, holidays, and/or weekends as necessary.

Interested applicants can submit an application, resume, and cover letter on our careers site at https://bit.ly/TNAQUA-careers by June 1, 2026, at 5:00 PM.

Salary : $95,000