Senior Animal Keeper

NorCal Aquarium and Wildlife Adventures
Lead the Environments That Keep Life Thriving

Behind every thriving animal is a perfectly balanced environment.

At NorCal Aquarium and Wildlife Adventures our Senior Environmental Quality Keeper plays a critical leadership role in ensuring that every habitat—from complex aquatic systems to dynamic terrestrial enclosures-supports the health, behavior, and well-being of our animal collection.

This is more than monitoring systems. It’s about owning the environments that make exceptional animal care possible, leading a team, and shaping the standards that define our facility.

If you are highly detail-oriented, technically skilled, and passionate about animal welfare at the highest level-this is your opportunity to lead, influence, and make a measurable impact.

What You’ll Do:

Environmental Systems Ownership:

• Oversee and maintain optimal environmental conditions across all aquatic and terrestrial habitats.
• Monitor and analyze key parameters including water quality (pH, salinity, dissolved oxygen, ammonia, nitrites/nitrates), temperature, humidity, air quality, and substrate conditions.
• Proactively identify trends, troubleshoot imbalances, and implement corrective actions before issues escalate.
• Ensure all systems consistently meet species-specific needs and industry best practices.

Leadership & Team Development:

• Support and guide a team of Animal Keepers in executing daily environmental monitoring and habitat care.
• Train and mentor team members on environmental standards, testing procedures, and best practices.
• Hold the team accountable to high standards of cleanliness, safety, and consistency.
• Partner with Curators to elevate team performance and operational excellence.

Collaboration & Operational Impact:

• Work cross-functionally with Curators, Veterinary staff, and the national husbandry team to support animal health and breeding success.
• Partner with Facilities and Life Support System (LSS) Technicians to ensure filtration, HVAC, and support systems operate effectively.
• Contribute to exhibit planning, upgrades, and new habitat design with a focus on environmental optimization.
• Provide clear, data-driven reporting on habitat conditions and system performance.

Animal Welfare & Quality Standards:

• Ensure all environmental conditions meet or exceed animal welfare standards and internal SOPs.
• Monitor how environmental changes impact animal behavior, health, and reproduction.
• Oversee and ensure completion of routine deep cleans across marine and terrestrial exhibits.
• Continuously look for opportunities to improve habitat quality and animal outcomes.

Compliance & Risk Management:

• Maintain compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations (USDA, Fish & Wildlife, DNR, etc.).
• Ensure accurate, consistent record-keeping of environmental data and habitat conditions.
• Identify and mitigate risks related to environmental systems and animal habitats.

What You Bring:
Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Zoology, Animal Science, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in animal care, including at least 2 years focused on habitat or environmental management.
• Strong expertise in water quality management, filtration systems, and life support systems.
• Deep understanding of environmental needs across a variety of species and habitats.
• Proven leadership experience, including training, coaching, or overseeing team members.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to act quickly in dynamic environments.
• Excellent communication skills and attention to detail.

Preferred:

• Experience with aquarium or zoo life support systems (LSS).
• Certification in water quality testing or environmental monitoring.
• Experience contributing to habitat design or exhibit planning.

What Success Looks Like:

• Environmental systems run consistently, proactively-not reactively.
• Animals are thriving, with conditions supporting natural behaviors and health.
• The team is confident, trained, and executing at a high level.
• Data is accurate, actionable, and used to drive decisions.
• The facility meets or exceeds all compliance and welfare standards.

Work Environment:

• Active, hands-on role requiring standing, walking, lifting, and working with equipment.
• Exposure to water systems, chemicals, and varying environmental conditions.
• Flexibility required, including weekends, holidays, and occasional after-hours response.

Why Join Us?

• Play a critical leadership role in animal welfare and environmental excellence.
• Work with a passionate, mission-driven team.
• Influence habitat design, systems, and long-term operational success.
• Grow your career in a facility committed to high standards and continuous improvement.