Curator of Manatees & Aquatics (Full-Time)

Application Deadline : 30November 2025 and / or until a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received. We reserve the right to close the posting early if a well-qualified candidate pool has been established. Early submission is encouraged. Please ensure that yourapplication highlights your experience and qualificationsas they relate to the responsibilities of this role.

Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens is seeking a Curator of Manatees and Aquatics (Full-Time) . This is a leadership opportunity to oversee our manatee habitats aquatic life support systems dive operations and the Manatee Rehabilitation Program (MRP) one of the most advanced and integrated aquatic systems in the field.

The person in this role will lead with empathy and clear communication. Theyll guide a talented team develop new protocols and collaborate across departments to ensure every animal system and staff member is supported for success. From hands-on water quality work to shaping long-term operational strategies this position plays a vital role in uniting animal care veterinary and life support teams towards a shared vision of excellence.

Were looking for someone who thrives on problem-solving inspires others to grow and brings a strategic mindset to managing people budgets and systems. You have a background with strong leadership knowledge of aquatic life support operations experience in animal care and a desire to build bridges between teams.

We value safety inclusion and innovation. Youll work alongside professionals who care deeply about the animals they serve and the people they lead. Together were building a future where technology enhances care collaboration fuels growth and conservation drives every decision.

Help us meet our mission Connecting our communities to wildlife and wild places.

What Youll Do :

• Provide strategic and operational leadership for manatee and aquatic animal care programs including life support systems and water quality.
• Supervise mentor and develop a talented team of animal care and LSS professionals (5-8 direct reports).
• Serve as the institutional lead for the Manatee Rehabilitation Program working with FWC USFWS and other conservation partners.
• Oversee water testing automation and system integration for aquatic habitats.
• Lead emergency response safety training and Dive Control Board participation.
• Manage six-figure budgets ensuring resources are aligned with organizational goals and conservation outcomes.
• Develop and implement SOPs conservation initiatives and research collaborations.
• Partner across departments to strengthen communication efficiency and inclusion.

What you bring :

12 years of experience in aquatic animal care or environmental systems operations with 5 years in leadership roles.

A plus...

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS :

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

WORK CONDITIONS

We are an equal opportunity employer and comply with all applicable federal state and local employment regulations.

EOE / DRUG FREE WORKPLACE

Reasonable Accommodation. Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens are committed to providing equal employment opportunities. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role. Candidates are encouraged to request accommodation if needed during the application interview or employment process.

Key Skills

Abinitio,Administration And Accounting,Android,Bid Management,Inventory Management,Embedded C

Employment Type : Full-Time

Experience : years

Vacancy : 1