Deputy Aquarium Director- AQM60034917

State of North Carolina900 Loggerhead Rd New hanover, NC
$52,592 - $70,826Onsite

About The Position

The North Carolina Aquariums at Fort Fisher is seeking a dynamic, efficient, and enthusiastic individual to join our team as a Deputy Aquarium Director. Reporting to the Aquarium Director, the Deputy Aquarium Director is responsible for providing continuity of support for all facility and staff operations in the absence of the Aquarium Director and will support Aquarium policy, long-range planning, and strategic planning across the organization. This position is directly responsible for overall management of the facility operations, scientific biological/zoological and botanical programs, integration of research and conservation programs into the live animal collections, and, oversight of the institutional collection planning process following the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) standards for live animals, and the presentation of accurate aquatic and terrestrial habitats with healthy display specimens and life support system operations. The Aquarium is currently undergoing a 30-month major expansion and renovation project. The successful candidate will support construction oversight at the Aquarium as well as support operations at the satellite location at Independence Mall in Wilmington.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree from an appropriately accredited institution; AND Three (3) years of experience related to the area of assignment; OR an equivalent combination of training and experience.
  • Must meet DNCR Fleet Safety Guidelines and have ability to obtain and maintain a valid driver's license issued from within the United States or be able to obtain one within 90 days of employment.
  • The Deputy Aquarium Director will also be required to respond to after-hour emergencies and share on-call responsibilities with subordinate managers for animal life support and/or other building systems related emergencies.
  • This position will also function as part of the leadership team’s “manager on duty” and require some weekend and holiday scheduled work.
  • The Deputy Aquarium Director should be comfortable engaging with the public, media and community leaders to support Aquarium initiatives and share information widely and strategically.
  • Incumbent will represent the Aquarium across local civic organizations, with foundations, and boards.
  • Recommended candidate will be subject to a background check prior to hiring.

Nice To Haves

  • Demonstrated experience supervising teams who oversee animal care and building operations at an AZA accredited facility where priorities include safety and animal wellbeing.
  • Experience in all aspects of planning, assigning, and supervising the work of subordinate employees.
  • Demonstrated experience managing large projects at an AZA facility.
  • Crisis management and communication experience
  • Experience with presenting and with public speaking

Responsibilities

  • Work in conjunction with the Aquarium Director to provide direct and indirect supervision and management for all staff and departments throughout the Aquarium.
  • Ensures staff have access to the resources needed to be successful in their jobs.
  • Responsible for managing or co-managing crisis events across the facility (e.g., injuries, animal escapes, acts of aggression, emergencies, etc.).
  • Responsible for directly engaging with division, departmental, and Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) leadership to continue supporting excellence in all aspects of operations.
  • Supports the Aquarium Director in developing North Carolina Aquarium policy, long-range planning, and strategic planning direction for the continued expansion of the facility and operations of the Aquarium.
  • Direct liaison for the Aquarium Division Project Manager for onsite project management.
  • Works in coordination with the Aquarium Director and Aquarium Budget Manager, while accountable for managing a large percentage of the facility budget while striving for fiscal sustainability for the site.

Benefits

  • variety of leave options
  • professional development opportunities
  • insurance
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
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