Curatorial Senior Aquarist – Help Care for Australia’s Greatest Natural Wonder
We are seeking an experienced aquarist/diver to join our team to assist in maintaining and developing our livestock and provide husbandry support for the animals in care. The position reports to the Curatorial Supervisor. Responsible for working effectively as a team member within the Technical Operations program area, the position assists with the maintenance of aquatic life support systems.
The position involves proactively managing duties so that both routine animal husbandry tasks and special project deliverables (e.g. coral propagation or livestock cultivation programs) are completed on time. Maintenance of the Great Barrier Reef Aquarium’s livestock is a 7-day-a-week operation.
The team member will be required to work a 37.5hr week, Monday to Friday. They may also be required to participate in a rotational weekend roster, which requires attendance onsite once every 4 weeks for 3 hours on a Saturday, and the occasional public holiday.
What’s In It for You
Work with iconic species from the Great Barrier ReefContribute to meaningful conservation and education outcomesBe part of a supportive, inclusive, and skilled teamOpportunities to expand your expertise in life support systems and husbandryAccess to unique fieldwork, diving, and propagation activities (if qualified)
What You’ll Bring
Minimum 2 years’ experience in marine aquatic animal husbandryExperience managing water quality and life support systemsStrong understanding of animal nutrition, behaviour, and disease controlFlexibility, resilience, and the ability to respond rapidly to changing conditionsProblem‑solving skills and sound decision‑making capabilityWillingness to participate in rotating weekend/public holiday rostersA passion for aquaria and collaborative teamwork
About Us
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (the Reef Authority) is a Commonwealth non-corporate entity, and a statutory agency established by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975 (Marine Park Act), reporting to the Minister for the Environment and Water. Our objective is the long-term protection, ecologically sustainable use, understanding and enjoyment of the Great Barrier Reef for all Australians and the international community through the care and development of the Marine Park.
Managing a reef roughly the size of Italy demands many skills and talents, so you don't have to be a marine biologist to contribute to our mission. From finance to marketing roles, we have a team almost as diverse as the ecosystem we protect. Our commitment and dedication to the Great Barrier Reef and the Australian public have a long-lasting impact, and we are looking for individuals who can bring their unique skills, experience, and knowledge to our high-performing and inclusive organisation.
Ready to Make an Impact?If you’re passionate about aquatic animals, thrive in a hands‑on environment, and want to help protect the Reef for generations to come, we’d love to hear from you.Apply now and bring your expertise to the heart of the Reef Authority’s mission.