What you'll bring to the team Are you driven by a passion for aquatic animal husbandry? Do you want to work for one of Melbourne's premier attractions, ensuring the highest level of animal care and guest experience? If you have experience with animal husbandry, are committed to conservation, and enjoy sharing your enthusiasm with others, then we have the perfect job for you. We have a fantastic opportunity to join our SEA LIFE Melbourne team as a Head Keeper / Head Aquarist.About the RoleReporting into the Curatorial Supervisor, you will play a crucial role in supporting the Curatorial Supervisor by overseeing the daily operations and development of the curatorial team. This will include working across a diverse range of taxa including Antarctic birds, teleosts, elasmobranchs, reptiles and amphibians. Further responsibilities include:Act as a technical lead in the designated zones, ensuring the highest standards of animal husbandry, display presentation, and safety are maintained.Assist the Curatorial Supervisor in monitoring all public display areas to consistently deliver a world class guest experience.Lead by example to embed a culture of professionalism and high quality animal care among team members.Support the management of animal acquisition, breeding, quarantine, and transport processes to maintain optimal health and compliance with SEA LIFE network requirements.Collaborate in the development and implementation of innovative animal husbandry practices and procedures in conjunction with the Displays Curator and Curatorial Supervisor.Conduct senior level training for team members, enhancing their skills and ensuring compliance with best practices in animal care.Work closely with the Veterinary team to implement and maintain best practices for animal health and well being.Maintain meticulous animal management and operational records in compliance with SEA LIFE and Merlin standards, as well as local legislative requirements.Enforce strict adherence to health and safety policies to ensure the safety of staff, guests, and animals.Diving in our displays (if you meet the required qualifications).About YouTo be successful in this varied role, you will have a passion for the marine environment and public engagement. As the ideal candidate, you will also hold the following essential criterion:You willTo be successful in this pivotal role, you will have:A minimum of 3 years of proven experience in aquatic animal husbandry, with substantial technical expertise.Strong leadership skills within an aquatic display setting.Excellent communication skills and the ability to effectively train and develop staff.A proactive and mechanically minded approach to problem solving as well as a strong focus on solutions.Leads by example by having a positive attitude, practicing high standards, modelling professional workplace behaviour, and maintaining a supportive team atmosphere.The ability to perform a range of physical tasks, such as lifting, carrying, and standing for extended periods, in a fast-paced environment while ensuring tasks are completed effectively and safely.The following qualifications would be an advantage:Ability to dive regularly and hold a current ADAS certification (or the ability to obtain one).A current First aid, CPR, Oxygen therapy provider or advance resuscitation.A current AS2299 commercial dive medical.A Bachelor's degree in Zoology or Biology or an equivalent Animal Care Diploma.About UsMerlin 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 3 charities: Merlins Magic Wand, the SEA LIFE Trust, and the WILD LIFE Conservation Fund.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 if you require any adjustments to the recruitment process to support your application.BenefitsCorporate 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. Pay Range Competitive