Senior Environmental Quality 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:
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Oversee and maintain optimal environmental conditions across all aquatic and terrestrial habitats.
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Monitor and analyze key parameters including water quality (pH, salinity, dissolved oxygen, ammonia, nitrites/nitrates), temperature, humidity, air quality, and substrate conditions.
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Proactively identify trends, troubleshoot imbalances, and implement corrective actions before issues escalate.
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Ensure all systems consistently meet species-specific needs and industry best practices.
Leadership & Team Development:
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Support and guide a team of Animal Keepers in executing daily environmental monitoring and habitat care.
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Train and mentor team members on environmental standards, testing procedures, and best practices.
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Hold the team accountable to high standards of cleanliness, safety, and consistency.
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Partner with Curators to elevate team performance and operational excellence.
Collaboration & Operational Impact:
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Work cross-functionally with Curators, Veterinary staff, and the national husbandry team to support animal health and breeding success.
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Partner with Facilities and Life Support System (LSS) Technicians to ensure filtration, HVAC, and support systems operate effectively.
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Contribute to exhibit planning, upgrades, and new habitat design with a focus on environmental optimization.
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Provide clear, data-driven reporting on habitat conditions and system performance.
Animal Welfare & Quality Standards:
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Ensure all environmental conditions meet or exceed animal welfare standards and internal SOPs.
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Monitor how environmental changes impact animal behavior, health, and reproduction.
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Oversee and ensure completion of routine deep cleans across marine and terrestrial exhibits.
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Continuously look for opportunities to improve habitat quality and animal outcomes.
Compliance & Risk Management:
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Maintain compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations (USDA, Fish & Wildlife, DNR, etc.).
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Ensure accurate, consistent record-keeping of environmental data and habitat conditions.
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Identify and mitigate risks related to environmental systems and animal habitats.
What You Bring:
Required:
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Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Zoology, Animal Science, or related field.
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5+ years of experience in animal care, including at least 2 years focused on habitat or environmental management.
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Strong expertise in water quality management, filtration systems, and life support systems.
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Deep understanding of environmental needs across a variety of species and habitats.
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Proven leadership experience, including training, coaching, or overseeing team members.
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Strong problem-solving skills and ability to act quickly in dynamic environments.
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Excellent communication skills and attention to detail.
Preferred:
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Experience with aquarium or zoo life support systems (LSS).
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Certification in water quality testing or environmental monitoring.
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Experience contributing to habitat design or exhibit planning.
What Success Looks Like:
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Environmental systems run consistently, proactively—not reactively.
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Animals are thriving, with conditions supporting natural behaviors and health.
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The team is confident, trained, and executing at a high level.
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Data is accurate, actionable, and used to drive decisions.
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The facility meets or exceeds all compliance and welfare standards.
Work Environment:
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Active, hands-on role requiring standing, walking, lifting, and working with equipment.
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Exposure to water systems, chemicals, and varying environmental conditions.
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Flexibility required, including weekends, holidays, and occasional after-hours response.
Why Join Us?
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Play a critical leadership role in animal welfare and environmental excellence.
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Work with a passionate, mission-driven team.
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Influence habitat design, systems, and long-term operational success.
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Grow your career in a facility committed to high standards and continuous improvement.
