Lead Aquarist

Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium • Springfield, MO

4d • Onsite

About The Position

Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium is seeking an experienced Lead Aquarist to join our Life Sciences team. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate animal care professional to combine hands-on husbandry with leadership, mentorship, and exhibit management in a world-class facility housing more than 35,000 animals. If you're looking to influence animal welfare, develop future aquarists, and grow toward a management career, we'd love to hear from you.

Requirements

• 6+ years of experience working with captive freshwater and saltwater fish and invertebrates.
• Previous leadership or supervisory experience.
• Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to meet dive and swim requirements within six months.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree in Biology or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Experience with operant conditioning and animal training is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily leadership, training, and mentorship to a team of Aquarists.
• Ensure exceptional animal care and husbandry standards across multiple exhibits.
• Coordinate daily operations, maintenance, enrichment, feeding programs, and recordkeeping.
• Collaborate with Curatorial Staff on animal welfare initiatives, collection planning, and exhibit development.
• Participate in veterinary rounds and support animal health assessments.
• Lead animal moves, introductions, and major husbandry projects.
• Assist with hiring, onboarding, and development of Aquarists, interns, and volunteers.
• Help shape the future of the department through process improvements and leadership initiatives.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Company-Paid Life Insurance
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• 401(k)
• Paid Time Off
• Employee Discounts

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level