JOB SUMMARY: Under the leadership of the department lead, the Biology Aquarist performs tasks involved with the overall health, appearance, maintenance and cleanliness of assigned exhibits and animal collection. This is a full-time, hourly position generally expected to work at least one weekend day with some nights and holidays required.
**This is a safety sensitive position and as such, use of medical marijuana is not permitted.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES/ACTIVITIES:
- Maintain animal health by completing daily system checks, feedings and exhibit and filtration maintenance.
- The ability to handle live animals.
- Complete water changes or make chemical adjustments to maintain water quality as needed.
- Complete quarantine and treatment procedures as directed by Leads and Supervisors.
- Communicate with management to maintain timely ordering of animals, food, and supplies.
- Communicate with department members and supervisors the needs and issues relating to animals and systems and work with them to resolve any problems.
- Keep work area clean and organized.
- Fill out appropriate logs for animal health, movements, acquisitions/dispositions, mortalities and water usage.
- Interacts with the public during educational shows and through general questions.
- Works with other relevant departments to ensure that service areas are always clean, and well maintained.
- Maintains familiarity with MSDS system and hazardous communications.
- Maintains a valid driver’s license.
ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES/ACTIVITIES:
- Ability to learn about the animals placed in their care.
- High degree of concentration and attention to detail.
- Good record keeping skills.
- Ability to contribute positively to a diverse and equitable work environment.
- Develop collaborative, productive, and respectful relationships with employees.
- Recommend improvements in area of responsibility.
- Ability to travel on a limited, as-needed, basis – including occasional overnight travel.
- Demonstrate professionalism at all times.
- Demonstrated ability to accurately follow instructions, both verbally and written.
- Perform other related duties as requested.
MINIMUM AND PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, environmental science, or related field; or 2-4 years of experience working with captive aquatic life.
- Familiarity with Microsoft Office software.
- Exceptional organizational, communication and interpersonal skills.
- Current SCUBA certification or the ability to acquire certification within six months of hire.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT
The duties of the Biology Aquarist will be performed inside and outside of the Oklahoma Aquarium. The Biology Apprentice must possess the ability to stand/work for long periods of time in adverse conditions (cramped spaces, cold water, and wet environment). Work environment is team oriented, having variable tasks, pace, and pressure.
Physical: Primary functions require sufficient physical ability to work in an aquatic setting. Continuous standing, with upward and downward flexion of neck; fine finger dexterity; light to moderate finger pressure to manipulate keyboard, equipment controls, and equipment; pinch grasp to manipulate writing utensils. Frequent side-to-side turning of neck, walking, standing, bending, stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting at waist. Frequent squatting, kneeling, and reaching above and at shoulder height; moderate grasp to manipulate reference books and manuals. Frequent lifting of 60 pounds while working in adverse conditions (cramped spaces, cold water and wet environment).
Vision: See in the normal visual range with or without correction; vision sufficient to read computer screens and printed documents and to operate equipment.
Hearing: Hear in the normal audio range with or without correction.
Pay: From $16.96 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
