Animal Care Team Member
Company: Merlin Entertainments
Role summary
Animal Care Team Member is a full-time role at Merlin Entertainments in Vestmannaeyjabær, Iceland (on-site). Posted 2026-10-26. Salary: ISK 578,923 per month. Experience level: 2-5.
- Job title
- Animal Care Team Member
- Company
- Merlin Entertainments
- Location
- Vestmannaeyjabær, Iceland
- Work arrangement
- on-site
- Employment type
- full-time
- Category
- Software Engineering
- Salary
- ISK 578,923 per month
- Experience level
- 2-5
- Date posted
- 2026-10-26
You have a unique chance to work at the Beluga Whale Sanctuary, where you'll directly support the rehabilitation of whales transitioning back into a natural ocean environment. It is a deeply rewarding, hands-on role where you will learn from animal care experts while working with a variety of fascinating species like puffins and belugas.
Job description
What you'll bring to the team
Do you want to change the world for whales?
At the Beluga Whale Sanctuary, we're looking for animal care team members to join us. Every day you'll care for every part of our belugas' lives, learning from experts as you go. This isn't training for shows. We're breaking new ground, helping whales who spent their lives in tanks find their way back to a more natural life in the ocean. You'll also help care for our puffins and other aquarium animals.
What you'll be doing
Positive reinforcement training with belugas and other marine mammals
Diet prep and habitat maintenance
Boat work and open water dives, including cold water conditions
Talking with visitors through tours, feeding presentations, and guest experiences
Helping other departments like Admissions or Maintenance when needed
Qualifications & Experience
Required
Experience with positive reinforcement training of cetaceans or marine mammals
Open water dive certification
Valid driver's license and clean driving record
Good written and spoken English
Willingness to work weekends, holidays, and outside normal hours
Good physical condition, able to lift at least 25 kg, work in cold water, and handle time on a boat
You'll need to pass a background check, physical exam, and open water swim test.
Preferred
Degree in zoology, biology, or a related field
Experience with life support systems and water quality
Lab or vet tech experience
Experience with aquarium animals or birds
Boat captain license
Drysuit or cold water dive certification, rescue dive certification, CPR/First Aid
Benefits
Alongside working with a supportive, hard-working, and fun team, you’ll also receive:
Merlin Magic Pass: Free tickets to all our attractions worldwide for you, your family, and friends annually
Enjoy the Ride Pass – giving you and 5 others a Merlin Annual Pass (Gold edition)
Discounted rates at Merlin hotels globally
Posted Salary Range
ISK kr578,923/Mo.