Senior Marine Biologist

Aquarium of the Bay
Aquarium of the Bay

USD 65k-80k / year

Posted on Nov 4, 2026

AQUARIUM OF THE BAY – SENIOR MARINE BIOLOGIST

The Senior Marine Biologist plays an integral role in supporting Aquarium of the Bay’s mission of inspiring ocean conservation by helping with the care of our animal collection as well as engaging our visitors. The Senior Marine Biologist will be part of the team that is responsible for the care of all elements of the mammal programs and working with invertebrates, fishes and other animals in the Aquarium’s collection.

Duties include all aspects of animal husbandry, including holding areas and exhibits, animal moves and transports and collection, diet preparation, medical treatments, record keeping and public presentations, SCUBA diving responsibilities, water quality, jelly culturing, amphibian care, reptile care, small mammal care, and vessel maintenance.

Core Responsibilities

  • Responsible for a high level of marine animal care including: diet preparation, feeding, physical restraint, medical procedures, operant conditioning and enrichment of all exhibit animals
  • Under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian, administer veterinary care and maintain all associated husbandry and medical record keeping
  • Responsible for the maintenance of all exhibit and holding areas
  • Interface with Interpretive and Visitor programs staff as well as the public in order to provide an outstanding visitor experience
  • Public speaking is required for both larger and smaller audiences
  • Work with Facilities for optimal exhibit maintenance
  • Responsible for the cleaning and maintenance of exhibits including in-tank siphoning/cleaning using SCUBA or other appropriate modalities

Absolutely Required Skills / Knowledge / Ability / Experience or Education

  • Bachelor degree in a Biological Science or Animal Behavior preferred – or equivalent experience
  • Minimum one year experience in a public aquarium, zoo, or animal care field
  • Knowledge and use of operational conditioning techniques
  • Good verbal and written communication skills
  • Must possess a valid California Driver’s license and maintain clearance in the DMV Pull Program
  • Experience with life support equipment including pumps, filters and oxygen
  • A firm understanding of operant conditioning and positive reinforcement training concepts
  • Ability to administer medical treatments to mammals, fish and invertebrates
  • Familiarity with the basic parameters of water quality and treatment
  • Ability to train and assist less experienced staff
  • Some knowledge of animal necropsy techniques and tissue sampling
  • Exercise discretion and independent judgment while completing all aspects of animal husbandry including equipment care and animal acquisition
  • Work without supervision while monitoring animal health, water quality and life support equipment function
  • Maintain electronic animal care data, return telephone messages and e-mails in a timely fashion
  • SCUBA certification highly desired
  • Ability to pass an occupational/scientific dive physical examination (if applicable)
  • Previous experience with marine or terrestrial animals in an aquarium or zoological facility
  • Familiarity with electronic animal record keeping software systems (i.e. TRACKS, ZIMS, etc.)
  • Participate in other aquarium special projects, work groups and committees as required
  • Must possess the ability to obtain a valid California driver’s license and maintain clearance in the DMV Pull Program

Salary Range: $65,000 – $80,000 per annum, DOE

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