assistant curator of aquatic life

Position Title: Assistant Curator of Aquatic Life
Department: Aquarium

Purpose:

Essential Job Functions:

• Assists in budget preparation and long-range planning
• Oversees daily maintenance of the aquarium collection and displays
• Develops, schedules, and directs staff, interns, and volunteer divers as needed under Curator’s supervision
• Reviews protocols and advises curator to ensure daily operations meet applicable standards
• Assists with exhibit maintenance and projects as needed, including SCUBA diving and veterinary procedures
• Develops and seeks out opportunities for staff to engage in professional development
• Reviews and schedules various exhibit and animal maintenance tasks
• Negotiates and actively curates positive relationships with vendors and suppliers
• Fosters positive relationships between the Aquatic Life Dept. and other departments at the Pittsburgh Zoo
• Fosters positive relationships with industry partners and other zoological institutions
• Supervises computerized department records
• Manages employee issues under supervision of Curator
• Assists Curator in completing annual employee evaluations in a timely manner
• Maintains animal inventory under supervision of Curator
• Purchases needed equipment, supplies, and various items
• Seeks out opportunities for professional self-development
• Attends senior staff meetings as required or in the absence of the Curator
• Assists the curator in preparing annual reports
• Represents the department and zoo in a constructive manner interacting with vendors, colleagues and public
• Utilizes leadership and organizational skills to foster a positive and supportive work environment

Other Functions:

• Performs all other duties as assigned and directed.

Performance Factors:

• Attendance and Dependability: The employee can be depended on to report to work at the scheduled time and is seldom absent from work. The employee can be depended upon to complete work in a timely, accurate, and thorough manner and is conscientious about assignments.
• Communication and Contact: The employee communicates effectively both verbally and in writing with superiors, colleagues, and individuals inside and outside the Zoological Society.
• Relationships with Others: The employee works effectively and relates well with others including superiors, colleagues, and individuals inside and outside the Zoological Society. Exhibits a professional manner in dealing with others, and works to maintain constructive working relationships.
• Provides excellent customer service in the areas of guest relations and park beautification:
  • Answers visitor inquiries or finds someone who can;
  • Is knowledgeable of the location of exhibits, restrooms, concessions, rentals, etc.
  • Disposes of litter and waste throughout the park and zoo facilities.

Education/Experience/Knowledge/Skills:

• BS degree in Aquatic Biology, related area or equivalent experience is required.
• Minimum of six years of public aquarium experience is required with at least one year of employee supervisory experience.
• Extensive knowledge of a variety of aquatic animals and their care requirements in a public aquarium setting.
• Proficiency with the application of various LSS designs including ozone to enclosures containing aquatic animals.
• Experience managing dive programs within a public aquarium setting, with the ability to attain SCUBA Diving Instructor Certificate. At least 100 hours of diving experience in a variety of aquatic environments including public aquariums.
• Leadership and organizational skills conducive to a positive work environment.
• Proficiency with personal computers and Microsoft software;
• Valid PA driver’s license required or the ability to obtain one

Physical Requirements:

Submit resume and pay rate requirements to: