FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)
Schedule: Full-time (Includes weekends, holidays, and a shifting schedule)
Salary Range: $35,000 - $37,000, commensurate with experience
Application Period: Open until filled
Under the supervision of the Curator, the Aquarist I is responsible for the daily care, appearance, and maintenance of assigned live aquatic exhibits and life support systems. This position involves monitoring animal and plant health, managing water quality, acquiring new specimens, and ensuring high standards of animal husbandry and public presentation.
- Exhibit & Husbandry Care: Daily care, feeding, and monitoring of live animal and plant collections. Identify health issues immediately and coordinate care with the Curator.
- System & Water Management: Maintain aquatic life support systems and manage water quality parameters for assigned exhibits and holding areas.
- Specimen Acquisition: Plan and conduct approved collection trips, trades, or purchases to stock exhibits.
- Record Keeping: Maintain accurate, detailed daily records of husbandry, water quality, and system maintenance.
- Public Relations & Guest Experience: Maintain a professional appearance in visitor areas, conduct behind-the-scenes tours for groups, and assist with public relations events.
- General Support: Assist with fish shipments, exhibit planning, basic plumbing and equipment maintenance, and emergency coverage as required.
- Education: B.S. in Marine Biology, Biology, Zoology, or a related field preferred.
- Experience: 1–3 years maintaining freshwater and saltwater aquarium systems preferred.
- Valid Driver’s License (Required)
- Strong observational, organizational, and problem-solving skills under pressure.
- Basic mechanical and plumbing skills.
- Ability to collect, identify, handle, and safely transport live specimens.
- Snorkelling ability.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills for interacting with guests of all ages.
- Physical Demands: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and navigate tight, constricted spaces around heavy exhibits.
Please send a cover letter and your resume to Mendel Graeber, Aquarium Director. [email protected].
