Animal Care Supervisor

What you'll bring to the team

Have you ever dreamed of working alongside beluga whales in one of the world's most extraordinary marine environments?

At the SEA LIFE TRUST Beluga Whale Sanctuary, you'll have the opportunity to make a genuine difference to the lives of marine animals while inspiring people to protect our oceans.

We're looking for an experienced and passionate Animal Care Supervisor to help lead our dedicated animal care team, delivering exceptional welfare for our resident beluga whales while supporting the rehabilitation of rescued puffins.

This is more than a job—it's an opportunity to be part of a pioneering conservation project where every day is different, every decision matters and your work has a lasting impact.

As our Animal Care Supervisor, you'll play a key leadership role within the Animal Care team, helping to deliver the highest standards of animal welfare, husbandry and training.

Working closely with the Animal Care Manager (Curator), you'll supervise the day-to-day care of our belugas, support the operation of our Puffin Rescue Centre and help develop a high-performing team committed to excellence.

You'll also be part of educating and inspiring visitors from around the world, showcasing the incredible work of the SEA LIFE TRUST and the importance of marine conservation.

What You'll Be Doing

🐋 Deliver Outstanding Animal Care

• Provide exceptional daily care for our resident beluga whales, including husbandry, behavioural training, enrichment and health monitoring.
• Monitor animal welfare and behaviour, identifying and responding to any concerns in partnership with veterinary colleagues.
• Help design and deliver enrichment programmes that promote positive welfare and encourage natural behaviours.
• Maintain the highest standards across animal habitats, equipment and life support systems.

🌟 Lead and Inspire Others

• Supervise, coach and mentor the Animal Care team.
• Lead by example, ensuring safe, professional and consistent animal care practices.
• Support training and development of team members to build capability and confidence.

🐧 Support Conservation in Action

• Assist with the rescue, rehabilitation and release of puffins through our Puffin Rescue Centre.
• Collaborate with conservation organisations, researchers and external partners to support ongoing scientific research and animal welfare initiatives.
• Contribute to behavioural observations, data collection and research projects that improve our understanding of beluga whales.

🚨 Be Ready When It Matters Most

• Support emergency planning and response for animal welfare incidents and operational emergencies.
• Maintain accurate animal records and husbandry documentation.
• Work flexibly, including weekends and public holidays, as part of a committed animal care team.

💙 Inspire Our Guests

• Share your knowledge and passion with visitors through talks, demonstrations and guest interactions.
• Help create memorable experiences that inspire people to care for marine life and the future of our oceans.

Qualifications & Experience

We're looking for someone who is passionate about animal welfare, thrives in a collaborative environment and enjoys leading others.

Essential

• At least 5 years' experience in marine mammal husbandry, ideally working with beluga whales or other cetaceans.
• Experience supervising or mentoring teams within a zoological, aquarium or marine mammal environment.
• Strong knowledge of animal behaviour, husbandry and welfare.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience collecting behavioural data and maintaining accurate records.
• Flexible approach to working hours, including weekends and holidays.
• Fluent English.
• Ability to obtain the legal right to live and work in Iceland.

Desirable

• Degree in Marine Biology, Zoology, Veterinary Science or a related discipline.
• SCUBA qualification.
• CPR and First Aid certification.
• Experience working on boats and in open-water environments.
• Experience working with belugas or other cetaceans.
• Clean criminal record.

Benefits

You'll become part of an internationally recognised conservation charity dedicated to protecting our oceans and marine wildlife.

In return, you'll enjoy:

🌊 The opportunity to work at the world's first open-water beluga whale sanctuary.

🐋 Hands-on experience caring for one of the world's most iconic marine mammals.

🌍 A chance to contribute to meaningful conservation and scientific research.

👥 Working alongside a passionate and supportive international team.

📈 Opportunities to develop your leadership skills and progress your career.

🏔️ Living and working in the breathtaking surroundings of Iceland.

About the SEA LIFE TRUST

The SEA LIFE TRUST is a global marine conservation charity committed to protecting the world's oceans and marine wildlife through conservation, education and campaigning.

Our Beluga Whale Sanctuary in Iceland provides a safe and natural environment for formerly captive beluga whales while inspiring future generations to care for our oceans.

Every member of our team plays a vital role in that mission.

If you're passionate about marine mammals, conservation and inspiring others, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and help us create a future where marine life can thrive.

Posted Salary Range

ISK kr623,750/Mo.