We are seeking a dedicated and motivated Level I Aquarist to join our team. This position is split between the Freshwater and Saltwater departments, with responsibilities focused on providing exceptional care for the animals in our exhibits. The Aquarist will manage systems for call-outs, assist with group activities such as shark feeds, and support various animal care functions throughout the facility.
- The ideal candidate will have a background in biology or zoology, hands-on experience in animal care, and a passion for continuous learning and improvement.
- As an integral part of our team, the Aquarist will maintain high standards of care and support the operations of exhibits and holding systems in alignment with aquarium protocols.
About Us
- At Loveland Living Planet Aquarium, we bring Earth’s ecosystems to life. Since opening our Draper facility in 2014, we have welcomed over 9 million visitors and provided educational experiences to more than 650,000 students.
- With a major expansion underway, we’re on track to become the largest aquarium in the Mountain West and one of the top five in the country.
Key Responsibilities:
- Manage assigned systems during staff call-outs and assist with daily coverage.
- Perform setup, maintenance, and care of exhibits and holding systems.
- Prepare and dispense animal diets following established protocols.
- Maintain water quality and clarity according to LLPA standards.
- Administer medications under supervision of the Veterinarian or Director of Husbandry.
- Perform regular inspections of systems, assessing animal health and behavior.
- Serve as a mentor for volunteers and interns, providing training and oversight.
- Maintain clean and safe workspaces, including exhibits and back-of-house areas.
- Support daily recordkeeping and report on animal health, water quality, and system functionality.
- Participate in approved research opportunities as needed.
- Assist with animal transport, transfers, and various procedures.
Qualifications:
- College degree in biology, zoology, or related field, or equivalent hands-on experience.
- Minimum of 1 year of experience in animal care within an aquarium, zoological facility, or related environment.
- Valid driver’s license required; If not Utah-issued, a Utah driver’s license must be obtained within 6 months of hire.
- SCUBA certification may be required, with the potential to perform dives for maintenance, animal care, and collections.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, as necessary.
Physical Demands:
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and swim.
- Ability to stand, walk, and climb ladders for extended periods.
- Ability to work with chemicals and operate power tools or machinery.
- Ability to work in hot, cold, and noisy environments, both indoors and outdoors.
Special Working Conditions:
- Exposure to various weather conditions and uneven work surfaces.
- Work in confined spaces, elevated platforms, and underwater environments.
Benefits and Perks:
- Health benefits including vision, dental, medical, HSA, FSA, pet insurance, paid maternity/paternity leave, EAP
- Generous PTO and holiday package with 12 paid holidays and PTO accrual starting at 80hrs a year and reaching 176hrs by year 5.
- 401K eligibility and full vesting within 90 days of employment with an employer match of up to 4%.
- Free individual Aquarium membership as well as memberships to gift to family and friends.
- Catered staff lunches twice a month
Equal Opportunity Employer
- The Living Planet Aquarium is proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.
- We do not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, creed, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or military status.
- The Living Planet Aquarium is committed to ensuring individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application and interview process.
- Should you require accommodations, please contact accommodation@livingplanetaquarium.org.
