This position is responsible for the day-to-day husbandry operations in the Aquarium. Primary responsibilities include the care and wellbeing of all animals under the facility’s care; maintenance of all habitats; and positive team approach within the Life Sciences department.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Undertake daily operations within the Life Sciences department to ensure highest level of safety, courtesy, education, efficiency and operational readiness at all times.
- Maintain positive representation to professional agencies, institutions and various committees.
- Comply with health and safety standards in accordance with local municipality, state and federal rules and regulations.
- Provide animal care and ensure habitats meet compliance of facility specific policies and procedures.
- Perform duties in order to reduce loss/waste, control costs and accurately communicate expenses.
- Assist in the implementation of new habitats and educational opportunities in order to maximize guest experience.
- Maintain up-to-date electronic records on animal health, water quality, system maintenance, system checks and stock reports.
- Monitor and identify animal health concerns, disease diagnosis and water quality concerns.
- Communicate to Senior Aquarist, Animal Care Manager, veterinary and water quality staff any animal health concerns to develop and implement a care and treatment plan.
- Comply with all policy and procedure documents.
- Assist in emergency situations to minimize damage, loss or injury to guests, team members, animals or company property.
- In collaboration with Guest Experience department and the Aquarium Foundation, ensure habitats and programs engage, educate and entertain diverse audiences.
- Work closely with the Aquarium Foundation to ensure volunteers and educators provide exemplary guest service and engagement.
- Perform daily dive requirements.
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- One year + experience with animal husbandry required.
- Open Water Dive Certificate required, or ability to obtain within six months of hire; Rescue Diver level or equivalent preferred.
- First Aid, CPR, AED, and Emergency O2 Provider certification required.
- Degree in wildlife/marine biology or relevant work experience required.
- Background in fresh and saltwater aquariums, reptiles, amphibians, birds or small mammals required.
- Experience in the care of flora and fauna in a public aquarium setting preferred.
- Competency with Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- Good verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong listening, presentation and decision-making skills.
