Aquarist I Permanent Galleries Floater

The Aquarist 1 provides the highest standard of animal care and prioritizes the welfare of the animals in our collection. The responsibilities of this position include maintenance of all assigned exhibits and support areas (including off-site facilities) and providing proper husbandry for the animal collection. Animals under the Aquarist 1's care may include fish, invertebrates, birds, reptiles and amphibians and knowledge of the biology of these animals is required. The Aquarist 1 will also have a foundational knowledge of aquarium water chemistry and knowledge of the mechanical components of aquarium life support systems. The Aquarist 1 may assist in specimen acquisition, the design and construction of new exhibits and holding systems, and perform other related duties.

New England Aquarium has implemented comprehensive safety protocols for employees and visitors to minimize the risk of COVID-19 exposure. As a member of our team, you will be provided with the training and resources needed to ensure a safe and rewarding experience. In addition, the Aquarium requires all staff to be vaccinated with one booster shot (when eligible) against COVID-19 unless a reasonable medical or religious accommodation is requested and approved.

This is a full-time regular position offering a comprehensive benefits package. The schedule will be Thursday - Monday from 8:00am - 5:00pm. Work must be conducted on-site.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. 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 of as appropriate.
2. Makes daily observations of animals for health assessment according to established norms of animal's behavior and appearance. In conjunction with the Animal Health Department, learns to identify common diseases for the animals within the collection. Helps to establish appropriate dietary regime, administers medications and supplements as directed.
3. 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.
4. Performs routine Animal Welfare assessments and under the direction of the Area Supervisor, helps to develop appropriate action responses to assure the highest standards of animal care are met.
5. In conjunction with the Environmental Quality Department and under the direction of the Area Supervisor, manages water quality and environmental parameters in assigned exhibits and holding tanks.
6. Applies responsible population management practices in assisting with making recommendations during the annual collection planning exercise, in addition to helping facilitate acquisition and disposition of animals.
7. Assists with developing, executing and adjusting strategies to effectively meet the behavioral needs of assigned animals including enrichment and operant conditioning.
8. Manages life support systems and participates in the design, upgrade, and installation of such systems.
9. May need to demonstrate competency as a SCUBA diver, collector, and transport driver.
10. Provides alternate coverage for other aquarists and is available for cross-training as assigned.
11. Depending on assignment, may be routinely expected to engage with the public through in person or virtual presentations.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Training and Experience

• Bachelor's degree with a concentration in science, or equivalent preferred.
• 6 months of animal husbandry or related experience is required.

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).
• Demonstrates general knowledge of natural histories for animals in assigned area and is familiar with filtration systems in assigned areas
• Demonstrates ability to work independently as well as collaboratively
• Demonstrates technical competency in the areas for which they are responsible.
• Demonstrates broad knowledge of the Aquarium field, including animal husbandry techniques and exhibit design
• Demonstrates good judgment, organization and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrates excellent written and verbal communication and fosters good interpersonal relationships with colleagues. May be asked to represent their team on various working groups.
• Serves as a mentor and resource for Assistant Aquarists, volunteers, interns, and co-ops
• May be required to work typical weekend days, holidays, nights, and respond to emergencies at all hours.
• Performs other position-related duties, as assigned.

New England Aquarium is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and is an Equal Opportunity Employer as defined by the EEOC.