Vice President of Animal Care & Wellbeing Greater Baltimore, MD Area

The Company is seeking a Vice President of Animal Care and Wellbeing to lead animal care, health and welfare, rescue, behavioral husbandry, and dive safety. The role oversees senior leaders, establishes consistent welfare assessment and accountability practices, and guides collection and habitat planning. Responsibilities include developing policies and exhibit plans, ensuring operational readiness and regulatory compliance, managing budgets, and coordinating responses to animal, habitat, and infrastructure concerns. The Vice President also collaborates with organizational leaders and external stakeholders to advance conservation, education, and public engagement priorities. Candidates should have at least 15 years of progressive experience in accredited zoos or aquariums, including senior leadership of complex animal care functions and experience managing leaders or specialists. A bachelor’s degree in animal science, biology, zoology, psychology, animal behavior, veterinary science, or a related field is required; an advanced degree is preferred. Applicants should demonstrate expertise in animal welfare, nutrition, veterinary practices, water quality, and life support systems, along with success improving welfare assessments and contributing to collection and habitat decisions. Strong communication, leadership, team-building, organizational, and interpersonal skills are essential.

Hiring Company

National Aquarium