Aquarist

Summary

An Aquarist at Miami Seaquarium will be responsible for the care and display of marine life living in exhibits throughout the park as well as being a resource for the Aquarium Department staff. The primary responsibilities will include working as assigned in any of the aquarium exhibits or areas.

Roles & Responsibilities

Ensuring all work environments are safe and any safety concerns are reported immediately.

Maintain open and professional communication with departments that interface with the Aquatics Department.

Ensure a quality experience and accurate information given during presentations and guest encounters by active participation and feedback to the team.

Function as a team player, showing trust and mutual respect for all members on the team.

Uphold the highest standards of courtesy and conduct.

Respond to all animal and operational emergencies as required.

Responsible for all tasks in the assigned exhibit. Including keeping up with maintenance and husbandry schedules.

Ensure all exhibit and husbandry standards are met every day.

Demonstrate basic knowledge of animal care including diets, water preferences, scientific nomenclature, range, habits, and compatibilities. Apply this knowledge to the exhibits and animal collection.

Assist in training aquarists in all areas of aquarium science and operations.

Perform mentoring responsibilities as assigned for new aquarists and teach them assigned tasks.

Assist management with administrative tasks such as scheduling, ordering supplies and payroll.

Participate in exhibit projects such as renovation, repairs or modifications.

Participate in on site animal procedures and moves.

Participate in functions in animal collecting operations both in the field and in exhibits.

Assist in performing basic fish and invert diagnostics and communicate findings to Veterinarian and Curator.

The Administrator prescribed medical treatments as directed by veterinarian and curator.

Perform all necessary life support maintenance and repairs on assigned exhibits.

Apply animal training techniques to improve the health and welfare of the animal collection, and to meet program needs.

Perform roles in animal interactions including Sea Trek and stingray encounters, ensuring an excellent guest experience and safety.

Provide accurate and informative interpretations of animal exhibits to guests by performing formal and informal discussions and/or tours.

Represent Miami Seaquarium at industry conferences by presenting work that contributes to the aquarium and zoological industry.

Requirements

Education: College degree in Marine/Life Science or related field, or commensurate experience. SCUBA certification from an internationally recognized certifying agency.

Languages: Fluent English

Skills:

Demonstrated excellent animal observation and record keeping skills.

Demonstrated professional presentation skills.

Pass all required department tests, including a swim test.

SCUBA certification from an internationally recognized certifying agency.

Basic computer skills.

Ability to recognize and correct normal operational challenges or seek prompt assistance from senior personnel.

Possess the characteristics of an Animal Care professional demonstrating competence, professionalism, teamwork, mutual respect and commitment to the mission of Miami Seaquarium.

Experience:

2 years experience working as an Aquarist at an accredited animal aquarium or zoo (HC or AZA) or in a professional animal environment such as an aquaculture facility.

Demonstrated knowledge of general fish and invertebrate biology, nutrition, natural history and behavior.

Proven experience with habitat maintenance, animal food preparation & nutrition requirements, general husbandry practices and animal restraint/capture techniques.

Demonstrated knowledge of life support system operations and design.

Proven experience with performing animal interactions with guests.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 10 hour shift
• 8 hour shift
• Holidays
• Overtime
• Weekends as needed

License/Certification:

• SCUBA certification (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Key Biscayne, FL 33149: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person