Animal Care Specialist - Full Time

Description

Occupational Summary 

The Aquatics Specialist is responsible for maintaining the live aquatic exhibit systems and the support systems at our off-site quarantine facility. This team member will be self-motivated and skillful in problem solving in order to maintain healthy, happy habitats for the varying aquatic species held at the Cook Museum of Natural Science. This individual will also work closely with the ectotherm staff in maintaining the remainder of the live exhibits at the Museum. 

Primary Duties and Responsibilities 

· Maintain closed saltwater and freshwater aquatic life support systems. 

· Prepare and maintain food cultures for the different aquatic exhibits. 

· Reduce algae and waste in aquatic exhibits and quarantine facility through regular and thorough cleanings. 

· Perform duties involved with testing and recording of water quality, chemical treatments, medications, and supplements. 

· Maintain accurate records of test results, health checks, maintenance performed, acquisitions, and divestures of aquatic specimens. 

· Assist in providing preventative health care, and identification and treatment of disease and parasites. 

· Demonstrate a high level of self-direction and problem solving. 

· Assist with operation and regular maintenance of all aquatic habitats in the Museum and at the quarantine site. This includes but is not limited to: The 15,000-gallon salt water ocean aquarium, the live jellyfish display, the 500 gallon fresh water aquarium, the live coral exhibit, other aquatic exhibits in the insectarium or terrarium areas and the systems at the quarantine facility.  

· Maintain breeding and/or culture of animals or food sources in our living collection. 

· Work with the Live animal manager and education department to maintain and provide live aquatic specimens for both onsite and outreach education programs. 

· Understand water chemistry and how to maintain proper parameters. 

· Interact with guests, including camps kids, about our aquatic exhibits and answer their questions in a manner that fosters, advances, and reflects the mission, objectives, and core values of the Cook Museum. 

· Conduct oral presentations for Museum visitors in a clear and effective manner to teach about our live aquatic collection. 

Requirements

Educational/Experience Requirements

· Bachelor’s degree required. Preferred degree in Animal Science, Zoology, or Biology or 5 years’ experience in live animal care and salt water aquarium life support systems. 

· Experience in informal science education and public speaking preferred. 

· Knowledge of standards of care for salt water fish, jellies, and coral, as well as freshwater turtles and fish. 

· Must demonstrate knowledge of aquatic habitats, related equipment, water quality and fish disease. 

· Detail oriented, independent worker and able to multitask, with the ability to clearly communicate with all levels of staff and departments on a daily basis. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. 

· Must have knowledge and high comfort level of Microsoft Office® applications and computer skills in general. 

· Willingness to be trained in the fundamentals of animal behavior and learning. 

License and Certification 

· SCUBA certification (preferred or willingness to acquire).

· If the candidate has their certification or is willing to acquire it, they will be asked to routinely dive in the 15,000-gallon saltwater ocean aquarium exhibit to provide proper animal care and to ensure exhibit quality and cleanliness.

· Driver’s License (required).

Supervises 

· Animal care interns.

· Animal care volunteers.

Working Conditions 

· Normal office environment.

· Frequent wet and slippery surroundings. 

· Frequent hot or cold settings.

· Frequent exposure to fumes, smoke, odors, etc. 

Physical Demands 

· Able to lift 50 lbs. to shoulder height. 

· Transporting organisms, materials, buckets, etc. throughout the Museum premises. 

· Able to physically access the uniquely challenging exhibit and service areas to which assigned. 

· Able to climb ladders. 

· Working in cramped and awkward spaces requiring crouching or crawling.

· Working in potentially wet areas.

Time Commitments 

· Full-time hourly position with benefits.

· Willingness to adjust hours to accommodate the needs of the job. 

· Possible nights. 

Must be available for special events and training.