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- Tasks: Oversee daily operations and develop engaging marine exhibits at a leading conservation aquarium.
- Company: Join the Ocean Conservation Trust, dedicated to protecting our oceans and inspiring change.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, personal development opportunities, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team making a difference in marine conservation and public engagement.
- Qualifications: Minimum 5 years in an aquarium setting and proven leadership skills.
- Other info: Full-time role with opportunities for growth in a supportive and inclusive environment.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 36000 £ per year.
The Ocean Conservation Trust is a global Ocean conservation charity that exists to restore and protect the Ocean. From our base at the National Marine Aquarium (NMA) in Plymouth, UK, we deliver conservation at scale through three interconnected pillars: Ocean Habitats, Ocean Advocacy, and Ocean Experiences. We believe that connecting people with the Ocean is key to driving behaviour change and catalysing systemic action for marine recovery.
A rare opportunity has arisen for the right candidate to join our team as the Assistant Curator. This role will oversee the daily operations of the Husbandry team and the development of our exhibits which include three large displays of 500,000 litres, 650,000 litres and 2.5 million litres, themed on the native UK marine environment, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Caribbean. Evidence shows that being exposed to nature helps people want to look after it; therefore, we aim to create habitats that help people connect to the Ocean.
You would be joining one of the most experienced and knowledgeable husbandry teams in the country who are passionate about leading the way in developing the aquarium industry. This is a great opportunity for someone with proven aquarium leadership to showcase their skills at a UK conservation aquarium. The right candidate is someone who shares our ethos of how an aquarium should be run. A passion for marine conservation is a must, as is the belief that we can make a positive difference through immersive public engagement.
The right candidate will also be a team leader, show respect for their colleagues and offer support to all team members and volunteers when needed. Other aspects of this role involve developing protocols and improving care and husbandry techniques by providing the very best exhibit maintenance, animal nutrition and welfare, diving operation support, record keeping and reporting. In return, you will be given the opportunity to develop and flourish at a UK conservation aquarium as we believe in the importance of personal development.
The successful candidate will ideally have a minimum of five years’ experience of working in an aquarium setting. You will be highly confident in managing life support systems and maintaining water quality, proactively identifying issues and resolving them effectively as well as being a team leader who brings out the best in their team are all important aspects of this role.
About you:
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in an aquarium setting
- PADI Dive Master (or equivalent)
- Practical DIY skills
- Confident in your own abilities and passionate about the aquarium industry and conservation
- Previous experience leading a team
- Show empathy and professionalism in how you work with colleagues and guests
- Actively contribute to a workplace where everyone feels welcome, heard, and supported
This role is full-time, working 37.5 hours per week. Normal working hours are Monday to Friday 8am to 4pm. Due to the nature of the work, there will be occasions when you are required to work weekends and additional hours. Applicants must be available to work weekends, public and bank holidays and throughout the school holidays. The salary will range from £35,000 – £36,000 per annum.
To apply: please email your full CV with a covering letter setting out your experience and suitability for the role to: Emma Whittle, recruitment@oceanconservationtrust.org
Closing Date: 22nd February 2026. Interviews will take place week commencing 9th March 2026. In line with current legislation, all applicants must be eligible to live and work in the UK. As part of the recruitment process, you will be asked to provide documented evidence of eligibility in the form of a passport, birth certificate or a visa share code.
The OCT operates an Equality and Diversity Policy and is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community – a place where we can all be ourselves and succeed on merit. All applications will be judged solely on merit; however, we particularly welcome applications from groups currently underrepresented in the workforce. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if a suitable candidate is found. Only candidates invited for interview will be contacted.
Assistant Curator in Plymouth employer: Ocean Conservation Trust Ltd
Contact Detail:
Ocean Conservation Trust Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Curator in Plymouth
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Ocean Conservation Trust and its mission inside out. When you walk into that interview, show us that you're not just another candidate but someone who genuinely cares about marine conservation and understands our ethos.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare some questions that reflect your passion for the role. Ask about our current projects or how we engage with the community. This shows us that you're not only interested in the job but also in making a real impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've led teams in the past, especially in aquarium settings. We want to see how you can bring out the best in others!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to highlight your practical skills! Whether it’s managing life support systems or improving husbandry techniques, let us know how your hands-on experience can contribute to our mission. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Curator in Plymouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your love for marine conservation shine through! We want to see how your values align with ours and how you can contribute to our mission of protecting the Ocean.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Assistant Curator role. Highlight your relevant experience in aquarium settings and any leadership roles you've had. We’re looking for specifics that show you’re the right fit!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make it easy for us to see why you’re a great candidate. Remember, less is often more!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at the Ocean Conservation Trust!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ocean Conservation Trust Ltd
✨Know Your Ocean Conservation Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the Ocean Conservation Trust's mission and values. Understand their three pillars: Ocean Habitats, Ocean Advocacy, and Ocean Experiences. Being able to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals will show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Assistant Curator, you'll be leading a team, so be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Highlight your ability to support and motivate colleagues, as well as any protocols you've developed that improved team performance or animal care.
✨Dive into the Details
Since this role involves managing life support systems and maintaining water quality, be prepared to discuss your technical skills. Bring examples of how you've proactively identified and resolved issues in previous aquarium settings. This will demonstrate your confidence and expertise in the field.
✨Emphasise Your Passion for Marine Conservation
Let your enthusiasm for marine conservation shine through during the interview. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to the cause. This will resonate with the interviewers and show that you align with their ethos of making a positive difference through public engagement.
