POSITION DESCRIPTION
Under general direction of the Chief Animal Care, Science and Conservation Officer (CACSCO) co-direct the Husbandry unit within the Birch Aquarium, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UCSD, which involves administration, operation, life support and animal husbandry functions. Direct and manage the functions and activities of aquarium personnel involved in routine and technical aspects of installation, operation, repair or maintenance of aquarium property, and collection, health and maintenance of aquarium animals. Assume full curatorial duties and manage the unit in collaboration with curatorial team and in the absence of the CACSCO
QUALIFICATIONS
- Five (5) or more years experience managing an aquatic animal husbandry unit at a zoo, aquarium, or other related attraction.
- Five (5) or more years experience of coral husbandry, health and propagation. Extensive experience managing diverse populations for scientific advancement and conservation.
- Knowledge of aquarium planning and design of displays and exhibits, general husbandry and method of behavior.
- Specialized knowledge of aquarium water systems and associated life-support equipment.
- AAUS Divers Certification and ability to maintain active diver status as well as lead a team of dive staff in the field and aquarium setting.
- Specialized knowledge of the husbandry required to maintain and display marine organisms in aquaria.
- Knowledge of behavioral interactions of marine animals in aquaria.
- Knowledge of common diseases of marine organisms and the appropriate treatment protocols.
- Specialization in an area of the museum’s collection and knowledge of standard museum curatorial practices.
- Knowledge of collection building / connoisseurship, ethical and legal standards for acquisition, and of the current market.
- Knowledge of selection, evaluation, and exhibition of objects.
- Knowledge of the principles of conservation / preservation.
- Donor cultivation and relationship building skills.
- Skills in scholarly research and writing scholarly publications.
- Demonstrated competency with and commitment to fostering fairness, respect, and inclusion in alignment with the Principles of Community.
- Advanced degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training
Salary range: $79,200 – $143,400
Location: San Diego, CA, USA
Application deadline: August 2, 2026
