Sea Life Park Hawaii - Assistant Curator of Marine Mammals

Performs in a management role under the direction of the Curator. Oversees and supervises the daily operation of the animal training /care staff and animal collection. Provides guidelines, clear instructions and directives, ensures and teaches proper husbandry procedures, conditioning techniques, demonstrations skills and oversees and ensures demonstration quality is maintained to the standard expected by the Curator.
Sea Life Park Hawaii - Assistant Curator of Marine Mammals

• Be able to proficiently perform ALL duties of a Senior Trainer level position.
• Supervises and teaches proper husbandry procedures, training methods and safety guidelines.
• Supervises and teaches awareness of public presence and educational demonstrations.
• Coordinates, prepares and conducts training, development and reviews of departmental Animal Trainers and Apprentice Trainers.
• Generates and provides employee documentation such as reprimands, coaching reports, etc. while maintaining a professional and positive work environment.
• Provides staff with materials necessary to fulfill animal and trainer needs. (i.e. reading material, video tapes, safety equipment and supplies)
• Ensures proper staffing of animal areas through effective scheduling, meeting operational needs as well as abiding by financial/budgetary guidelines and safety guidelines.
• Instrumental in both concept and design of new demonstrations, working in conjunction with staff and other departments as necessary abiding by financial/budgetary guidelines and safety guidelines.
• Maintains proper safety guidelines and participates or delegates regular attendance at company safety meetings.
• Coordinates with staff Veterinarian, Curator and Senior Team to ensure the health and safety of animals and trainers.
• Communicate clearly and concisely to Curator before significant decisions are made that apply to animals or trainers.
• Write departmental policies and procedures to be used for staff development and guidelines.
• Document oral directives and effectively implement to staff.
• Maintains and addresses all aspects of assigned areas

• Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology, Zoology, Animal Science, or a related field; advanced degrees preferred.
• Minimum of five (5) years of professional experience in animal care and exhibit management, with at least two (2) years in a supervisory role.
• Proven expertise in aquatic and aviary husbandry, including fish, sharks, turtles, invertebrates, and bird care, as well as experience with life support systems and water quality management.
• Significant experience in SCUBA operations, including dive safety management and underwater maintenance.

• Proficiency in animal behavior, aquatic life support, health assessment, and training techniques, including operant conditioning.
• Strong working knowledge industry standards and USDA regulations.
• SCUBA certification required, with advanced certification (e.g., Rescue Diver or Dive Master) preferred.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills.

• Ability to lift and carry up to 60 pounds and perform physically demanding tasks, including diving and habitat maintenance.
• Willingness to work in various environmental conditions, including exposure to fluctuating temperatures and humidity.
• Ability to work irregular hours, including weekends, holidays, and evenings.

• Passion for animal welfare and conservation.
• Dedication to creating exceptional guest experiences.
• Commitment to fostering a collaborative, positive, and professional work environment.

• This position requires both office and fieldwork, including interaction with animals, exhibits, and life support systems. The Assistant Curator will be exposed to moderate noise levels, varying weather conditions, and potential safety hazards inherent to animal care and SCUBA operations.