Freshwater Aquarist II

LLPA is looking for an experienced herpetologist for the Freshwater team. This person is responsible for providing the highest possible quality of care to the animals in his/her assigned area.  This responsibility includes the set-up, maintenance and care of holding enclosures and systems, preparing and dispensing food, disease recognition and treatment, life support system construction and operation, and species identification.  They should provide knowledge and ability to act as a resource for volunteers and interns, and assist in training interns and volunteers as directed. 

Qualifications

• A 4 year college degree (B.A. or B.S.) is required with an emphasis on biology or science course work, or a 2 year degree (A.A or A.S.) with equivalent hands on work experience/ knowledge may be considered.
• Minimum two (2) years of experience caring for animals in a public aquarium or zoological facility, experience with large reptiles preferred, but not required.
• Possess a valid driver’s license and obtain a Utah driver’s license within 6 months of hire date
• An Aquarist/Herpetologist Level II must have previous exposure to aquariums, zoos and/or nature centers and a background related to living organisms
• Experience with, understanding of, and aptitude for maintaining fish, invertebrates, amphibians and reptiles is essential
• Experience safely working with dangerous or hazardous animals a plus, including, but not limited to large snakes, crocodilians, other large reptiles

Critical Skills/Competencies

• Extensive knowledge of biological processes as they pertain to water chemistry, physiology, animal health and psychological well-being
• Possesses familiarity with the natural history of all animals and plants in their section, including a good understanding of the requirements of individual species in captivity
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, and digital record keeping
• Open Water SCUBA Certification strongly preferred

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Maintains live exhibits and specimen holding facilities at a high level of quality
• Determining an individual animal’s nutritional needs, securing, culturing, preparing and feeding the animals assigned to them
• Daily care and maintenance of reptiles, amphibians, fish and invertebrates, including dangerous or hazardous animals
• Act as a resource to Interns and Volunteers
• Works well independently and in a team environment
• Follows directions easily
• Maintain proper water quality to ensure the health of the organisms
• Complete inspection rounds at least twice daily to check status of all exhibit and holding systems and their occupants
• Make daily observations of animals for health and behavioral assessment and report suspected issues immediately to the management
• Administer medications as needed under the direction of the Curator of Freshwater, Director of Husbandry, or Veterinarian
• Maintain all established records in accordance with established practice and policy (acquisition, disposition, tank records, water quality records, etc.)
• Maintain a clean work area to facilitate a presentable and safe environment for work and behind the scenes tours
• Adhere to all safety protocols (fire, diving, etc.)
• Demonstrate flexibility in completing tasks, which may extend after normal working hours or to weekends and holidays
• Present workshops, seminars, lectures, member programs and behind the scenes tours
• Provide alternate coverage for other aquarists as assigned

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 accomodation@thelivingplanet.com.

Depending on the volume of interests and submissions, we will only be contacting applicants who meet all of the minimum requirements listed in the job posting. Only those applicants who align most closely with our minimum and preferred qualifications will be contacted for an interview. Loveland Living Planet Aquarium will retain your application materials for one year and may contact you regarding future opportunities.