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Aquarium Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Curator, Mammals

Monterey, CA · On-site

Manage the operations of an assigned group of Aquarium galleries and live exhibits, associated infrastructure, and resources. Directly supervise a team of Husbandry staff members and Husbandry ...

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Curator, Mammals

Monterey, CA · On-site

Manage the operations of an assigned group of Aquarium galleries and live exhibits, associated infrastructure, and resources. Directly supervise a team of Husbandry staff members and Husbandry ...

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$23K

$61.4K

$102.5K

How much do aquarium manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for aquarium manager in the United States is $61,351.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Aquarium Managers?

Aquarium Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations of public or private aquariums. Their duties include managing staff, ensuring the health and safety of aquatic animals, maintaining water quality, and coordinating educational programs and exhibits. They also handle budgeting, procurement, and compliance with regulations. Effective Aquarium Managers combine knowledge of marine biology, business management, and strong leadership skills to ensure their facility runs smoothly and provides a positive experience for visitors.

What are some of the key challenges an Aquarium Manager might face in daily operations?

Aquarium Managers often encounter challenges such as maintaining optimal water quality, managing a diverse team of aquarists and support staff, and ensuring the health and wellbeing of a wide variety of aquatic species. Additionally, they must balance operational budgets, oversee exhibit maintenance, and comply with strict regulatory standards for animal care and public safety. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as the role requires collaborating with veterinarians, educators, and other departments to deliver a positive visitor experience while prioritizing animal welfare.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aquarium Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aquarium Manager, you need expertise in marine biology or aquatic science, experience in animal husbandry, and often a relevant degree. Familiarity with water quality testing equipment, aquarium life support systems, and regulatory compliance software is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential for managing staff, ensuring animal welfare, and engaging with the public. These skills are crucial for maintaining healthy aquatic environments, meeting regulatory standards, and delivering exceptional visitor experiences.

What is the difference between Aquarium Manager vs Aquarium Technician?

AspectAquarium ManagerAquarium Technician
CertificationsOften requires advanced certifications in marine biology or aquacultureTypically requires basic certifications or relevant technical training
Work EnvironmentOversees entire aquarium operations, staff management, and visitor experiencePerforms hands-on maintenance, cleaning, and animal care
ResponsibilitiesManagement, budgeting, staff supervision, and strategic planningAnimal feeding, tank maintenance, and technical repairs

While both roles are vital in an aquarium setting, the Aquarium Manager focuses on overall operations and staff management, whereas the Aquarium Technician handles the technical and animal care tasks. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Aquarium Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Aquarium Manager jobs? Cities with the most Aquarium Manager job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Aquarium jobs? The most popular types of Aquarium jobs are:
What states have the most Aquarium Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Aquarium Manager jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Aquarium Manager jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Aquarium Manager jobs are:
Aquarium Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aquarium Manager job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 63% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 11% Summer. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $61,351 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Shift Manager - Aquarium Adventure

Petland & Aquarium Adventure

Hoffman Estates, IL • On-site

$10 - $15/hr

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Aquarium Adventure is looking for Dynamic People in Chicagoland. We have two beautiful stores, located in Hoffman Estates and Bolingbrook, and have some tremendous career opportunities for the right individuals.We are hiring Shift Managers. Shift Managers are responsible managing retail floor staff, as well as for cleaning aquariums, the care and well being of all of our fish and reptiles, sales and working with customers to educate them on keeping their aquariums thriving

Hourly Management Pay ranges from $10 - $15+/hr with sales incentives. We offer our employees a unique and fun working environment, competitive pay, and significant employee discounts.Our store is open 7 days a week from 10am to 9pm Monday through Saturday and 11am to 6pm on Sundays, so you must be able to work evenings and weekends.

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