Area Supervisor - Aquatics

Position: Area Supervisor Aquatics
Department: Ectotherm
Supervisor: Assistant Curator of Ectotherm

Nashville Zoo is dedicated to inspiring a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation, and leadership. With a diverse collection of animals and a commitment to wildlife preservation, we provide engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage – including medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you and your family healthy.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – confidential support services for mental, emotional, and financial well‑being.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching – helping you build a secure future while you make a meaningful impact today.
• Generous paid time off and sick leave – because rest and recovery are vital.
• Exclusive zoo perks – enjoy discounts on park experiences, retail, and food services, plus complimentary membership benefits.
• A collaborative and inclusive culture – be part of a diverse team where your voice matters, your growth is nurtured, and collaboration thrives across all departments.
• AZA‑accredited facility – Nashville Zoo is committed to top‑tier animal care, ethics and global conservation efforts.

Description:

Under limited supervision, employee will serve as the Area Supervisor of the Aquatics Department at the Nashville Zoo mary responsibility is to supervise keeper staff and participate in the general care of assigned collection animals and work on conservation initiatives; maintain exhibits, perform light exhibit construction; operate zoo vehicles; maintain integrity of existing graphics and exhibits. Employee will be responsible for ensuring that all supplies and needs for their areas (ordering feed products, acquisition of tools and cleaning supplies etc.)

are ordered by them or informing the appropriate staff member of the need. Employee will generate appropriate work requests; supervise and coach assigned staff; remain a positive role model for the keeper staff/keeper associate setting an example in their daily work. Area supervisors are full‑time working supervisors and are required to know all aspects of the day‑to‑day activities of their assigned areas.

They must be proficient in conflict resolution when dealing with staff as well as the general public. Employee will be responsible for educating the public on the Aquatics Departments animal collection and providing a friendly, safe and clean atmosphere for families to enjoy the Nashville Zoo. In addition, the successful candidate will represent the zoo at meetings and will help direct Aquatics departmental conservation initiatives which currently include a population monitoring program funded by USFWS for the federally endangered Nashville Crayfish and our AZA‑FRTRP coral conservation facility.

The successful candidate will work closely with the Herpetology Supervisor and the LSS manager.

• Prepare food and water for collection animals by cutting and measuring diet portions
• Feed collection animals
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance
• Maintain professional conduct at all times and consistently model the organization’s values in all interactions with colleagues, guests, and stakeholders.
• Monitor assigned animals closely with regard to general appearance, diet consumption levels, condition of fecal matter, etc.
• Maintain feed intake records
• Maintain water quality log books
• Record daily observations pertaining to the health and behavior of Aquatics Department animals on a Daily Report to be submitted to the Curator
• Clean animal exhibits, and service areas
• Participate in capturing, incapacitating, and moving animals
• Assist Veterinarian staff in the treatment of collection animals
• Provide exhibit security and take appropriate actions to prevent vandalism and maltreatment of animals and facilities by the public.
• Participate and train direct reports in basic animal conditioning techniques.

• Clean and disinfect utensils, work tools, and containers.
• Maintain high standards of exhibit appearance and plant life in and around enclosures.
• Perform minor or routine maintenance of…