Turtle Biologist

Position Summary:

The Turtle Biologist (Aquarist) is a core member of The National Aquarium's Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Team, responsible for the daily care, husbandry, and medical support of rescued and resident marine turtles. This role combines hands-on animal care with field-based rescue operations and requires strong biological knowledge, practical veterinary understanding, and the ability to work independently in dynamic environments.

The position focuses primarily on turtle husbandry, including rehabilitation, health assessments, treatments, feeding, and behavioural observation, while also supporting other marine species as needed. The successful candidate will demonstrate initiative, compassion, and confidence in handling and treating animals under veterinary supervision.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as a key member of the Wildlife Rescue Team, participating in the rescue, transport, and rehabilitation of marine turtles across the UAE.
• Lead and perform daily husbandry of turtles in rehabilitation and display, including feeding, cleaning, health checks, and environmental enrichment.
• Support the Veterinary Team with clinical procedures including wound care, medication administration, tube feeding, and monitoring recovery progress.
• Conduct detailed observations and maintain accurate medical and behavioural records for all turtles under care.
• Monitor and maintain optimal water quality, filtration, and environmental conditions within turtle systems.
• Assist in the design, setup, and improvement of turtle rehabilitation facilities and life support systems.
• Confidently handle and restrain turtles for examination, treatment, or relocation, ensuring animal welfare and staff safety.
• Participate in diving activities for exhibit maintenance, feeding, and animal care when required.
• Work independently and unsupervised during field operations or at remote rescue locations, maintaining high professional standards.
• Support release operations and post-release monitoring in coordination with environmental partners.
• Collaborate with Education and Communications teams to promote public awareness of turtle conservation and responsible marine practices.
• Ensure strict compliance with all Health, Safety, and Biosecurity procedures.

Educational Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in marine biology, Zoology, Veterinary Science, or a related field (required).
• Additional training in animal health, wildlife rehabilitation, or aquatic veterinary support (advantageous).

Work Experience:

• Minimum 2 years of experience in aquatic animal care, turtle rehabilitation, or veterinary nursing within an aquarium, rescue, or research setting.

Certifications & Accreditation:

• Valid SCUBA certification from a recognized training agency.
• Animal handling and rescue training (advantageous).

Languages:

• English (required); Arabic (desirable).

Computer Literacy:

• Competent in data recording, animal management systems, and basic reporting software.

Skills & Other Requirements:

• Strong understanding of turtle biology, health, and environmental needs.
• Confident administering veterinary treatments under supervision.
• Physically capable of lifting and handling heavy animals and equipment (up to 25 kg).
• Comfortable working outdoors, at sea, and in varying weather conditions.
• Able to work independently and make sound decisions during rescue operations.
• Valid UAE driver's license (advantageous).
• Commitment to animal welfare, conservation, and teamwork.