The New England Aquarium is looking for an experienced Aquarist to join our Changing Exhibits team. The Changing Exhibits Team is responsible for the care of the Shorebirds exhibit, the Science of Sharks exhibit, the Blue Planet Action Center, and the Jelly collection. This position will be responsible for providing proper husbandry for a diverse specimen collection including birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, jellies, and other invertebrates. The Aquarist will assist in specimen acquisition, setting up and creating new exhibits and holding systems, and performing other related curatorial duties. The level of the position will be commensurate with experience.
- This is a full-time regular position offering a comprehensive benefits package. The weekly schedule will be Tuesday through Saturday. This position requires occasional coverage on weekend days, holidays, and nights, as well as occasional emergency response at all hours.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Provides daily care of assigned exhibits, holding systems, support spaces, and life support systems according to the standards set forth by NEAQ as well as AZA.
- May help to develop new protocols as appropriate and apply knowledge of aquatic ecosystems and animal biology to advance husbandry techniques as appropriate.
- Makes daily observations of animals for health assessment according to established norms of animals' behavior and appearance. In conjunction with the Animal Health Department, learns to identify common diseases for the animals within the collection.
- Helps to establish an appropriate dietary regime, and administers medications and supplements as directed.
- Maintains written and electronic records and submits entries via NEAQ's specimen database system TRACKS©.
- Typical entries include accessions, dispositions, moves, behaviors, mortalities, and LSS maintenance in accordance with proper husbandry practices and institutional policy.
- Performs routine Animal Welfare assessments and under the direction of the Area Supervisor, helps to develop appropriate action responses to ensure the highest standards of animal care are met.
- In conjunction with the Environmental Quality Department and under the direction of the Area Manager, evaluate water quality and environmental parameters in assigned exhibits and holding tanks.
- Applies responsible population management practices by providing recommendations during the annual collection planning exercise; helps to facilitate the acquisition and disposition of animals.
- Assists with developing, executing, and adjusting strategies to effectively meet the behavioral needs of assigned animals including enrichment and operant conditioning.
- Manages life support systems and participates in the design, upgrade, and installation of such systems.
- May need to demonstrate competency as a SCUBA diver, collector, and transport driver.
- Provides alternate coverage for other aquarists and is available for cross-training as assigned.
- Demonstrates general knowledge of natural histories for animals in assigned areas and familiarity with filtration systems in assigned areas.
- Depending on assignment, may be routinely expected to engage with the public through in-person or virtual presentations.
- Serves as a mentor and resource for Assistant Aquarists, volunteers, interns, and co-ops.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Minimum Training and Experience
- 6 months of animal husbandry or related experience is required.
- Bachelor's degree with a concentration in science preferred.
- Previous experience working with birds is preferred.
- Previous experience working around common aquarium life support systems is also preferred.
- Candidates will have a proven record of being able to collaborate with a large group of peers and colleagues from various departments.
- Experience working with filtration systems.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Possession of or willingness to acquire an internationally recognized SCUBA diving certification.
- Ability to obtain Medical Examiner's authorization to SCUBA dive in accordance with NEAQ Diving Program.
- Valid Driver's License and the willingness to drive a 24' Box Truck.
- Ability to obtain Medical Examiner's Certificate in accordance with Motor Carrier Safety Regulation (49 CFR 391.41-391.49).
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.
- Knowledge of the Aquarium field, including animal husbandry techniques, and exhibit design.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- For more information and to apply online please visit: http://neaq.applicantpro.com/jobs/
- New England Aquarium is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer as defined by the EEOC. Here we foster a culture of respect, diversity, and inclusion.
- We strive to engage and inspire a broad audience with our efforts to protect the blue planet, and we believe a diverse workforce provides experiences, skills, and perspectives that enrich our programs, strengthen problem-solving, add creativity, and enhance our work environment.
- For more information, or to apply now, you must go to the website below.
- Please DO NOT email your resume to us as we only accept applications through our website.
- https://www.applicantpro.com/j/3328237-11570
Experience Required
- 6 months
Salary
- $20.05 - 25.95/hourly
