Manager, Living Collections

Living Collections Manager

As science and technology increasingly shape our lives, the Museum of Science strives to equip and inspire everyone to use science for the global good while keeping up with the pace of change. Among the worlds largest science centers and New Englands most attended cultural institution, we engage nearly five million people a year at Science Park and in museums around the world, in classrooms, and online. The Museums singular location connecting Boston and Cambridge puts us at the junction of some of the worlds most influential academic institutions and industries, local and state government, schools, and the public. Trusted by each sector, we are ideally positioned to convene, inspire, and create meaningful experiences for all. Come join us on our mission to inspire a lifelong love of science in everyone and living our vision for a world where science belongs to each of us for the good of all of us.

Oversee the Living Collections department and ensure the live animal and plant collections align with and advance the Museums mission, educational goals, and accreditation standards. Help the Museum launch and maintain Life in the Forests, our largest-ever live animal exhibition. Collaborate across the Museum to elevate our live animal public programs strategy in the Museums Public Science Common, a world-class programming venue opening at the Museum in fall, 2026. Ensure compliance with Museum policies, AZA standards, and all local, state, and federal regulations regarding the care, use, and exhibition of living collections. Lead strategic planning for the collection, including species selection, resource management, and permit compliance, to support long-term sustainability and impact. Direct budgeting and financial stewardship for the department, including operating and restricted funds, to ensure optimal allocation of resources. Implement and refine best practices for animal and plant care, staff training, enrichment, and wellness, emphasizing innovation and continuous improvement. Lead the Museums AZA accreditation process, including application, site visit, and hearing every five years, to maintain institutional credibility and excellence. Cultivate relationships with professional peers, regulators, and partner institutions, positioning the Museum as a leader in living collections.

Leadership & Team Development : Demonstrated experience and ability to recruit, coach, manage, and retain a high-performing team, aligned with professional growth and organizational values. Strategic Thinking : Capacity to plan for the long-term sustainability of the collection while adapting to changing institutional or environmental conditions. Compliance & Accreditation : Demonstrated expertise in AZA accreditation and regulatory affairs relevant to animal care and exhibition. Animal Welfare & Collection Management : Deep understanding of best practices in animal husbandry, enrichment, and training, with a track record of applying them in a museum or zoological setting. Collaboration & Communication : Skilled at cross-functional communication, engaging stakeholders inside and outside the organization with diplomacy and transparency; including engagement with donors and Board members. Financial Stewardship : Proven ability to manage complex budgets, balance multiple funding sources, and align spending with mission-driven outcomes.