Privately owned, the National Zoo and Aquarium is one of the most highly regarded zoos in Australia. The zoo and aquarium is also home to Jamala Wildlife Lodge which continues to receive worldwide attention and reviews, consistently rating it amongst the top animal lodges in the world.

The aquarium consists of 17 salt and freshwater systems that range from 500L to 200,000L.  The aquarium is also home to the National Zoo & Aquarium’s reptile collection. All reptiles are non-venomous, native and exotic, lizards and snakes, as well as a small collection of amphibians.

The Role:

This role is hands-on and includes daily husbandry, animal care, record keeping, exhibit presentation and maintenance.

The role requires the Aquarium Curator to apply the latest thinking and highest standards in animal welfare, innovative habitat design and maintenance of the aquarium life support systems.

The Aquarium Curator will assist the National Zoo and Aquarium’s Executive Management Team with the day to day operations of the aquarium and support the zoo’s strategic priorities in animal welfare and conservation.

The Aquarium Curator will be responsible for leadership, decision making and effective management of all aspects of the aquarium, including the management of the aquarium team.

The Aquarium Curator will work with the National Zoo and Aquarium’s Veterinary Department to ensure the highest standards of animal care and welfare with regards to quarantine, life support and water quality.

Minimum Qualifications Requirements: Any combination of education (above the high school level) and experience equivalent to seven (7) years in fields utilising the required knowledge, skills, and abilities associated with such positions. For example: Aquarium Life Support Technician/Operator/ Engineer, Aquarist, Assistant Curator or Curator.

Required Attributes:

• Demonstrates a high level of experience and expertise with both large-scale salt and freshwater aquarium life support systems maintenance and repair, and water quality management. (Minimum of 7 years)
• Ability to maintain high standards of husbandry, hygiene and animal care in changing operating environments.
• Experience with habitat maintenance, habitat aesthetics and presentation and the ability to review habitats and assess their visitor appeal.
• Ability to work independently.
• Demonstrates excellent communication, interpersonal and organisational skills and proven experience with promoting a positive team culture.
• Experience in training team members.
• SCUBA certification of Rescue, Dive Master, Dive Instructor or commercial diving qualification or the ability to obtain within an agreed timeframe.
• The ability to pass and maintain an occupational dive medical.
• First Aid and/ or Oxygen Resuscitation training.
• Maintain up to date Covid-19 vaccinations.
• Willingness to work on weekends and assist with short notice shift cover.

Desirable Attributes:

• Experience in reptile husbandry and handling.
• Basic plumbing & mechanical skills.
• Project management and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing operating environments.

Benefits:

The successful candidate will work with a supportive team and will be encouraged to excel in their role.  Options for further relevant training or education will be available.  Remuneration to commensurate level of experience.

Closing date: 18 March 2022

To apply:             Applications are to be emailed to Renee Nasserpour with ‘Aquarium Curator Position’ as subject line.

All applicants must supply:

1. A cover letter outlining the above criteria.
2. A resume (which must detail time spent in paid or unpaid positions).
3. Referee contact details