Aquarium Director

Job Code: 32000740
Salary Grade: NC17

Class Concept

This is managerial and administrative work in managing a state aquarium or facility that promotes the state's aquatic environments. Responsible for technical and administrative supervision of aquarium staff including implementing short and long-term planning for the aquarium, setting priorities, interpreting the aquarium's direction as a part of the division's mission, and ensuring compliance with all required Association of Aquariums and Zoos (AZA) Accreditation, state, and federal laws, regulations, policies and procedures. Monitors the budget, and determines daily operational needs in the areas of maintenance, staffing, equipment, education, animal husbandry, exhibits, and facility expansion. Employee participates in community outreach to develop partnerships with local governments and businesses and provides information to the Division Director, NC Aquarium Society, aquarium advisory committee, general public, researchers, and to other museums, zoos and aquariums on regional and aquarium issues. Employee is reviewed through reports and conferences with the Aquariums Division Director.

Recruitment Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Considerable knowledge of the required administrative systems to support program operations.
• Working knowledge of exhibit development methods, aquatic life support systems, and facility management systems.
• Thorough knowledge of the goals, trends, and industry standards of public aquariums and of the principles of marine ecology, marine biology, and/or science education.
• Working knowledge of building codes and aquatic systems.
• Working knowledge of regional environmental issues.
• Ability to manage resources and to communicate goals and objectives effectively.

Minimum Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree in marine science, biology, zoology, science education or related field from an appropriately accredited institution and six years of management and administrative/supervisory experience at an aquarium, museum, zoo or related facility; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.