Aquarist

Description

Position Summary 

This position is responsible for the day-to-day husbandry operations in the Aquarium.  Primary responsibilities include the care and wellbeing of all animals under the facility’s care; maintenance of all habitats; and positive team approach within the Life Sciences Department. 

Duties & Responsibilities  

• Undertake daily operations within the Life Sciences Department to ensure the highest level of safety, courtesy, education, efficiency and operational readiness at all times. 

• Maintain positive representation to professional agencies, institutions and various committees. 

• Comply with health and safety standards in accordance with local municipality, state and federal rules and regulations.  

• Provide animal care and ensure habitats meet compliance of facility specific policies and procedures. 

• Perform duties in order to reduce loss/waste, control costs and accurately communicate expenses. 

• Assist in the implementation of new habitats and educational opportunities in order to maximize guest experience. 

• Maintain up-to-date electronic records on animal health, water quality, system maintenance, system checks and stock reports. 

• Monitor and identify animal health concerns, disease diagnosis and water quality concerns. 

• Communicate to Senior Aquarist, Animal Care Manager, veterinary and water quality staff any animal health concerns to develop and implement a care and treatment plan. 

• Comply with all policy and procedure documents. 

• Assist in emergency situations to minimize damage, loss or injury to guests, team members, animals or company property. 

• In collaboration with Guest Experience Department and the Aquarium Foundation, ensure habitats and programs engage, educate and entertain diverse audiences.  

• Work closely with the Aquarium Foundation to ensure volunteers and educators provide exemplary guest service and engagement.  

• Perform daily dive requirements. 

• Other duties as assigned. 

Qualifications

Experience, Skills & Qualifications 

• One year experience with animal husbandry required.  

• Open Water Dive Certificate required; Rescue Diver level or equivalent preferred. 

• First Aid, Emergency O2, and AED certification required.  

• Degree in wildlife/marine biology or relevant work experience required.  

• Background in fresh and saltwater aquariums, reptiles, amphibians, birds or small mammals required. 

• Experience in the care of flora and fauna in a public aquarium setting preferred.  

• Competency with Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint. 

• Good verbal and written communication skills. 

• Strong listening, presentation and decision-making skills.