Under general supervision of the Aquarium Senior Aquarists and Curators, responsible for the maintenance of the Jelly exhibits/specimens and associated life support systems for the assigned gallery display tanks and associated workspace at the Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institute of Oceanography (SIO).
Shares in the coverage of live feeds as well animal care duties for approximately 5500 specimens representing over 300 species in over 130 tanks (65 for public view). Observes specimen health and behavior and performs the care needed to keep them in healthy condition. Maintain environmentally accurate displays. Observes and maintains life support systems and with maintenance department ensures that all external life support systems are functioning properly. Keep accurate records monitoring specimen health, behavior, feedings, and locations. Researches and handles exhibit projects independently, with minimum supervision. Responsible for collection of jelly specimens and assists in the collection of specimens needed for all galleries. Performs the most difficult duties within the preparator responsibilities advising senior staff and others with specific information on the care of each species responsible for.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in marine biology or related field and or equivalent experience.
- Two (2) years jelly (Scyphozoan) husbandry experience with a total of three (3) years husbandry experience at a public aquarium.
- Demonstrated knowledge of nitrification cycle as it pertains to aquarium systems.
- Proven organizational skills and ability to keep accurate, consistent records relating to all aspects of animal care and systems maintenance.
- Experience with aquarium life support systems.
- SIO SCUBA certification
- SIO Boating certification
- Demonstrated ability to follow all safety precautions for equipment and procedures while working on the job.
- Demonstrated good verbal and written communication skills; ability to work well with others.
- Excellence in guest experiences related to behind-the-scenes tours.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS
- Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.
- Must be able to work weekends, occasional nights, major holidays, during other staff's absence, and to respond to emergencies.
- SCUBA certification required. Rescue diver certification preferred. Will accept basic open water certification but must acquire AAUS Scientific Diver certification (Scripps Institution of Oceanography dive class) within 6 months.
- SIO Boating certificate required.
Duties may require direct contact with children (defined as individuals under the age of 18); completion of the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA) training will be required. Must meet CANRA compliance requirement per California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act ("CANRA," Penal Code sections 11164-11174.4).
