Job Duties
- From caring for its tropical marine fish, elasmobranchs, syngnathids, cephalopods and invertebrates, to assisting with its coral spawning program, exhibit modification and monitoring life support systems and water quality.
- Prior experience at an aquarium working with marine fish, invertebrates, scuba diving, water quality, coral care and animal husbandry is required.
- The successful candidate must have worked with corals in an aquarium setting for at least 2 years or a coral hobbyist for at least 3 years.
- The candidate must be team-oriented with an attitude temperamentally suitable to work closely with aquatic animals.
- Good observational skills and attention to detail are essential.
- This role requires working at least one day of the weekend.
Responsibilities
- Responsible for the daily husbandry of our tropical aquatic exhibits, which includes fish, sharks, Seahorses, cuttlefish and corals.
- Assist in coral pest control with in-tank treatments and dips.
- Assist in our coral spawning program and our reef restoration program in Bali, Indonesia
- Conducts daily observation and timely recording of animal health indicators such as, animal diet intake, body condition, and behavior. Prompt reporting of noted abnormalities or health concerns and treatment of injured/diseased individuals.
- Prepares diet and feeds animal exhibits through various methods.
- Keeps exhibits and surrounding spaces clean and well maintained, ensuring equipment and tools are clean, organized, and functioning properly.
- Ensures that strict cross contamination protocols are followed, and any breaches of those protocols are documented.
- Practices good judgment in decision-making related to animal care, emergency situations, and projects.
- Communicates effectively and works collaboratively with the curator to meet the highest standards of animal care.
- Opportunities to grow by attending conferences like AALSO, MACNA and RAW.
- Works independently and collaboratively with the aquatic Husbandry team on daily tasks and special projects.
- Adheres to and abides by Federal, State, and local agency laws, regulations, codes, and ordinances, and AZA standards.
Experience
- Prefer four-year degree (B.S.) in marine biology, biology, zoology or related field.
- Minimum of one year experience in aquarium animal care OR Coral hobbyist for 3 years minimum.
- Coral spawning knowledge is highly desirable.
- Basic knowledge of the operation and maintenance of aquarium and life support systems, including experience with water quality and testing.
- General knowledge of laboratory equipment, procedures, and PPE.
- Strong command of the English language, both written and verbal.
- Able to lift a minimum of 60 pounds
- Able to work standing up for extended periods of time in humid environment.
- Must be comfortable around a variety of animals.
- SCUBA certification required or ability to get certified in the first 3-months.
- Able to work weekends and holidays.
Compensation: $21/hour
