Do you have the Magic in you to create memorable experiences all for the love of fun? Do you wish to cast a spell of laughter and enjoyment to the people around you? Want to join a team that creates smiles and memories globally on a daily basis? Then you have the magic to be Team Merlin at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo!

About the Role

We are seeking a Curatorial Manager to join the team at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo.

Responsibilities include:

• Lead a team of supervisors, aquarists, keepers, and assistant aquarists/keepers
• Continuous improvement of curatorial operating systems and processes to ensure zookeeping/aquarist teams are consistently and efficiently delivering best practice animal welfare and educational guest experiences.
• Own the learning and development of zookeeping/aquarist teams through detailed standard operating procedures, risk assessments, training, signoffs and review processes.
• Coordinate and prioritise safety and maintenance of all exhibits and associated areas.
• Continual provision of new and innovative direction in exhibitory, guest experience, education, and conservation outcomes.

Please also note that the roster may vary depending on operational requirements and seasonal demands.

About You

To succeed in this role, you will have: 

• Tertiary qualifications in animal care/management with a strong background in people and performance management as gained through at least three years’ experience working as a team lead/supervisor/manager in a zoological setting.
• Ability to train, develop and engage a team of functional experts.
• A thorough understanding of life support systems and equipment related to best practice exhibitory and animal care.
• A understanding of contemporary animal welfare science, animal behaviour, transport, legislation, and animal record management.
• An eye for detail with a practical ability to inspire and create “wow” displays with a working knowledge of the correct use of theming and lighting for delivery.
• A detailed understanding of workplace health and safety principles, specifically pertaining to the environment in which we work.
• Current First Aid, CPR & Oxygen Therapy Provider Certificates.
• Strong communication skills and ability to build rapport with internal and external stakeholders, guests, and colleagues.
• Ability to multi-task and have a flexible and adaptable approach along with the ability to meet deadlines and have demonstrated planning, organisational and time management skills.

Benefits

• Corporate benefits including free access to all our attractions worldwide
• Domestic and global opportunities to develop and progress your skills and career in tourism and attractions
• Additional Leave (including birthday and wellbeing) and 3 volunteer days to give back to a social cause you care about
• Opportunity to be involved with our Diversity & Inclusion initiatives, including our Reconciliation Action Plan
• Being part of a business built on fun

About Us

Merlin Entertainments is the company behind iconic brands like SEA LIFE, Madame Tussauds, LEGOLAND, and Peppa Pig World of Play. We operate in over 140 attractions across 25 countries, delivering memorable experiences to 54 million+ visitors a year.

We’re the leading operator of visitor attractions in Australia and New Zealand, with 10 attractions, including SEA LIFE, Wild Life, Madame Tussauds, and the Fly Treetop Adventures, amongst others.

Merlin Entertainments is driven by a strong social responsibility with the vision to create a world where the global community respects, conserves, and sustainably manages our precious aquatic habitats, wildlife, and natural resources. We strive to achieve this goal through our 2 charities: Merlins Magic Wand and the SEA LIFE Trust.

So, if you are vibrant and passionate about delivering an amazing service within a great company and in a team who loves what we do – then we want to hear from you! 

Merlin Entertainments strongly encourages application from all background, including people of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander decent.

Please let us know at anzrecruitment@merlinentertainments.biz if you require any adjustments to the recruitment process to support your application.