Habitats Director

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

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Job Description

The Habitats Director provides leadership for the Habitats team which includes Animal Life Support Systems (ALSS), Water Quality (WQ), and Dive operations disciplines in support of SeaWorld Yas Island multi-species animal habitats.
This position leads and develops WQ and Dive operations colleagues; oversees departmental budgets, anticipates equipment needs in support of habitat capital improvements and retro-fits, as well as habitat and ALSS design and planning for capital expansion projects. Job Scope

Leads, supports, and coordinates all habitat-based requirements and standards for SeaWorld Abu Dhabi
Develops the team and colleagues
Advances high standards of habitat requirements that meet or exceed all professional zoo and aquarium
accreditation standards
Maintains open and continuous lines of communication with the General Curator and other Zoological department leaders
Provides strategic direction and contribution to the planning, organization, and implementation of the habitats department\xc3\xa2\xe2\x82\xac\xe2\x84\xa2s short and long term plans and goals
Develops and updates colleagues resources and plans for the Animal Habitats team
Plans and develops the Habitats department\xc3\xa2\xe2\x82\xac\xe2\x84\xa2s annual operating budget in coordination with the General Curator
Assists with the development of future habitat attractions and expansions for the facility
Develops and maintains safety protocols to ensure a safe working environment for colleagues and animals
Participates in developing long-range goals and objectives, including capital planning
Ensures any noncompliance and/or safety related incidents are investigated and corrective action taken as needed in collaboration with HSE and/or HR department
Identifies and monitors key results and financial performance for assigned areas
Leads the team in delivering high-quality guest experience programs
Participates in formulating and administering department\xc3\xa2\xe2\x82\xac\xe2\x84\xa2s policies as needed
Performs other duties as assigned.

To be considered for this role: Essential

Bachelor\xc3\xa2\xe2\x82\xac\xe2\x84\xa2s Degree, or an equivalent combination of experience and education related to water/environmental sciences, engineering or water and wastewater treatment.
10 years of experience in marine mammal life support systems in a zoo, aquarium, or oceanarium setting
5 years of experience in a Zoological leadership position
5 years of experience in the development and oversight of zoological budgets
Strong leadership, communication and teamwork skills
Critical thinking, verbal and written communication skills
Excellent interpersonal skills
Thorough understanding with professional zoo/aquarium and animal behavior and conservation communities
Advanced IT skills, including MS Office applications.

Desirable: