Aquarist

INTRODUCTION Aquarium at the Boardwalk in Branson, MO has a deep commitment to the animals that are in our care and a passion for creating a uniquely fun environment for our Guests. Since opening in November of 2020, visitors have been thrilled to connect with more than 200 species of fish and invertebrates in 300,000 gallons of saltwater, encompassing 36 exhibits and touch pools. Our hallmark at Kuvera Partners is developing immersive experiences for guests to enjoy while on vacation, giving them great value and great memories. Located in the heart of the Branson Entertainment District, the Aquarium is a popular year-round draw for this tourist destination that welcomes 8.5 million travelers per year. Visitors and locals alike enjoy the Ozark Mountains for its lakes, waterfalls, trails, caves, and parks. The community is also known for its safe and affordable lifestyle, with housing costs at 23.5% less than the national average. GENERAL DESCRIPTION Reporting to our Director of Husbandry, the Aquarist has an important role in animal care and welfare, exhibit development, habitat maintenance, and quarantine and daily data collection in the 46,000-square-foot aquarium attraction. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Animal Husbandry • Responsible for the husbandry of various fish & invertebrates, their habitats, and life support systems • Prepares diets using a diversity of high-quality foods and supplements in accordance with established dietary programs • Performs feedings to prepared schedules for topside and underwater routines • Recognizes medical conditions and administers medications as needed • Participates in the development and implementation of husbandry procedures, techniques, and practices • Maintains computer animal care records and data collection for all animals & exhibits • Assists with the acquisition, transfer, and disposition of specimens • Assists with field collection trips Water Quality • Maintains water quality parameters to ensure animal health and excellent water clarity; tests water quality as needed • Maintains quarantine/holding systems and adheres to accepted quarantine protocols • Helps monitor the operation of life support systems and works with senior staff to assess, redesign, and install new systems as appropriate • Frequently scuba dives in all types of conditions Safety • Maintains and performs routine and preventative maintenance on all dive and exhibit equipment and area responsibilities on a daily basis • Pays extensive attention to detail for cleaning of food prep areas and food storage areas • Maintains a clean behind-the-scenes area to facilitate a professional and safe work environment • Adheres to all established safety protocols (fire, OSHA, diving, etc.) Education & Development • Attends professional meetings and conferences as requested • Performs public relations functions associated with the department including guided tours and professional, friendly guest interaction • Collaborates with other aquariums and zoos in aquarium techniques when necessary • Presents workshops, seminars, lectures, programs and behind-the-scenes tours, if requested • Demonstrates flexibility in completing tasks, which may extend after normal working hours or to weekends and holidays, and willing to cover emergencies

Requirements:

• An undergraduate degree in biology, marine biology, wildlife management or other related fields. Advanced degrees and certifications a plus. • A minimum of two (2) years of aquarium experience in an aquarium facility. Accredited facility preferred. • Solid background in the overall care of fishes and invertebrates • Demonstrated skill in the use of office software and other record-keeping programs • Experience with transport and acclimation of diverse species a plus • Aptitude for learning quarantine procedures, water quality management, and management of closed synthetic seawater systems. Also, laboratory procedures and the use of spectrophotometer, pH meter, DO meter, ORP, Refractometer, microscope etc. • Dive, CPR, AED, and First Aid certifications. (CPR, AED & FA may be obtained post hire.) • Ability to lift and carry a minimum of 50 pounds • Obtain a Missouri driver’s license • Excellent oral and written communication skills

Additional Info:

WHAT WE OFFER • Competitive salary based on experience – Range is $35,500-$42,500 • Annual bonus up to 10% of salary based on Living Our Core Values • Paid Vacation & Sick Time • Company pays 100% cost of employee’s health insurance premium • Option to add family members to insurance • Affordable vision and dental insurance available • 401(k) plan with dollar-for-dollar company match up to 4% (after 1 yr employment) • $1,500 per year Explore! fund to experience and learn new things • $10,000 life insurance policy & long term disability insurance fully paid by the company • Participation in professional industry organizations and ongoing education • Uniform shirts and jackets • Free tickets to the Aquarium & Hollywood Wax Museum Entertainment Center for friends & family • Free tickets to other area attractions for you and your family ABOUT US Founded in 1965, Kuvera Partners is a privately held corporation that has built and operates 14 attractions in four tourist markets across the U.S. We credit our 50 year track record of success to our strong core values. At Kuvera, we “Roll Up Our Sleeves” every day and “Make it Fun” for our Team Members and Guests. We take care of each other, and we never stop innovating.