UNKNOWN

FEED

While performing the duties of this job, the intern is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; taste or smell. Checks with Coral Laboratory Supervisor and Vice President of Veterinary Services and Research prior to collection of specimens to ensure adequate animal holding facilities in accordance with biological requirements of the animals are available.

HOUR

POSITIONPosition Title: Coral Laboratory Aquarist 1Department: Research (800)Classification: Temporary (through January 31,2026), Full-timeDirect Report: Coral Laboratory SupervisorFrom: February 1, 2026-January 31, 2028 (funding is pending for an additional 24 months, timeline will be changed according to payout schedule)Start date: February 1, 2025Hourly wage: $15/hr (full time 40 hours/week) plus benefits (details provided by HR) POSITION SUMMARYThe Coral Laboratory Aquarist is responsible for providing the highest possible quality of care to the animals under their assigned care, under the guidance of the Vice President of Veterinary Services and Research and the Coral Laboratory Supervisor. This individual provides assigned specimens with excellent day-to-day care through approved husbandry practices; keep systems/enclosures, support equipment, and workspaces well maintained to MSAQ standards; participate in the acquisition/disposition, transport, acclimation, and quarantine of animals; participate in the design, construction and maintenance of lab and reserve tanks, including life support material and equipment, as assignedThis position requires a highly motivated individual who will be the Coral Laboratory Aquarist working with mesophotic and deep-water coral at the offsite facility (ARC). This project is funded by the National Marine Sanctuaries Foundation and is a part of the Coral Propagation Techniques project involving multiple governmental and non-governmental partners. Funding is secured through January 31, 2026. The position will also be responsible for adhering to all aquarium safety protocols, standard operating procedures, and Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accreditation standards. Note: Position will involve exposure to inclement weather, dust, potentially dangerous and unpredictable animal species, and potentially dangerous machinery, restraint devices and toxic chemicals and/or drugs. Occasional use of protective clothing or equipment is required e.g., goggles, mask, gloves, and gowns. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. KEY REQUIREMENTSEssential responsibilities include: 1.Responsible for the care and feeding of the coral collection and systems at off-site facility<ul><li>Completes inspection rounds of specimens, exhibits and reserve tanks twice daily to check status and identify and report potential problems to the Coral Laboratory Supervisor. </li><li>Prepares food and feeds assigned animals/systems/enclosures, in accordance with dietary needs. Cleans and provides daily maintenance to food preparation areas, food preparation equipment and utensils.</li><li>Prepares diets and diet supplements according to established protocols to ensure nutrition and vitamin content are maintained to keep animals at peak health.</li><li>Observes medical conditions that may require attentions and reports observations to Coral Laboratory Supervisor and Vice President or Veterinary Services and Research.</li><li>Administers medications and implements routine quarantine procedures as prescribed.</li><li>Maintains detailed, daily husbandry records and reviews records regularly to identify important trends and enters notes into TRACKS medical records software.</li><li>Preform daily water quality testing and maintain results in TRACKS medical records software.</li></ul> 2.Participate in the acquisition and transport of corals and invertebrates  <ul><li>Participates in field collection trips (when possible or needed) using appropriate equipment.</li><li>Checks with Coral Laboratory Supervisor and Vice President of Veterinary Services and Research prior to collection of specimens to ensure adequate animal holding facilities in accordance with biological requirements of the animals are available. </li><li>Maintains acquisition and disposition database using TRACKS.</li></ul>3.Participates in the design and construction of new and renovated systems, maintenance, and appearance of existing exhibits and tanks, including life support materials and equipment.<ul><li>Maintains cleanliness of the displays through cleaning glass and decor, scrubbing algae and removing debris to meet establish MSAQ standards.</li><li>Performs cleaning tasks, water changes, backwashing and other procedures necessary to care for pumps, filters, and maintain water quality standards, and consult Coral Laboratory Supervisor to determine appropriate schedules for maintenance and troubleshooting guides. </li><li>Cleans back-up areas including scrubbing, mopping, vacuuming water and pest control.</li><li>Maintains current knowledge of all pumps, valves, filters, and chillers dealing with life support of the lab.</li><li>Participates in system design and fabrication in keeping with coral behavior and biological needs.</li></ul>4.Serves as a representative of the Aquarium to the public and media.<ul><li>Participates in and presents at workshops, seminars, lectures, member programs and tours.</li><li>Present at weekly meetings with other laboratory staff, NOAA, and USGS partners.</li><li>Offers advice to other labs, MSAQ, and aquariums regarding aquarium techniques.</li><li>Reaches out for advice to other members on the CPT team</li></ul>5.Train and mentor new volunteers and interns in all aspects of husbandry<ul><li>Able to work well with supervisors and staff.</li></ul>6.Responds to life-support and animal-related emergencies, at times after work.<ul><li>As scheduled, works cooperatively to execute response to mitigate alarms for planned incidents or drills, including after-hours when needed.</li><li>Responsible for monitoring alarms based on an established on-call system and occasionally responding to emergencies after hours.</li></ul>7.Provides support for other departments as needed.8.Possess keen observational skills and be highly detail-oriented and adept at problem solving.9.Assist in writing SOPs for future staff members and for overall coral project.10.Adhere to all organizational and departmental policies and procedures.11.Maintains detailed data records (photos, measurements, medical records, etc.) and contributes to information gathered as directed by the Project Managers of the CPT team.12.Other duties as assigned or required. QUALIFICATIONS<ul><li>Bachelor’s degree in biology or related discipline or extensive hands-on experience working with a live animal collection at a zoo, aquarium or similar institution.</li><li>6 months experience working at a public/private aquarium preferred.</li><li>Experience in the care and maintenance of a wide variety of coral and invertebrates.</li><li>Experience and proficiency in the capture, handling, transfer and transportation of coral and invertebrates.</li><li>Possesses experience and knowledge towards disease and treatment of corals and invertebrates.</li><li>Must have good organization and time management skills.</li><li>Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays. Must respond to emergency calls involving but not limited to animal related or life support.</li><li>This position calls for physical activity throughout the day; must be able to stand, stoop, walk on possible uneven surfaces, climb ladders, and lift a minimum of 50lbs.</li><li>Must possess a valid Driver’s License and insurance, or ability to obtain one within 60 days of employment.</li><li>Must be self-motivated, with the desire to provide the best care to animals under care.</li></ul> TEAM REQUIREMENTS<ul><li>Safety & Security - All Team Members are required to adhere to all Mississippi Aquarium safety and security standards. </li><li>Attendance & Appearance - To maximize the guest’s experience, all Team Members are required to adhere to Mississippi Aquarium standard operating procedures regarding attendance and dress code policies as it relates to individual job functionality. Tattoos and piercings must be appropriate and in keeping with a professional image. Depending on the work area, management reserves the right to determine that tattoos will need to be covered during your shift.</li><li>Team Partnership - All Team Members are focused on supporting each other to complete the guest experience. Therefore, supporting, facilitating, and participating in activities that promote team effectiveness is vital to our organization.</li></ul> PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an intern to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the intern is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; taste or smell. The Intern must occasionally lift and/or move up to 60 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the intern is exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.<div> </div>

MISSISSIPPI AQUARIUM

Coral Laboratory Aquarist I

Gethired

OTHER

As a Senior Aquarist, you’ll work closely with the Curator and Displays Supervisor to lead the day-to-day work of our animal care team, supporting Aquarists and Husbandry Assistants while ensuring outstanding animal welfare and inspiring guest experiences. SEA LIFE Orlando is searching for an experienced, passionate Senior Aquarist to join our Displays Team and help lead animal care operations at one of Florida’s most exciting attractions .

What you'll bring to the team:
 <h2> Senior Aquarist – SEA LIFE Orlando 麗</h2>Lead. Dive. Inspire. Protect the ocean—every single day.SEA LIFE Orlando is searching for an experienced, passionate Senior Aquarist to join our Displays Team and help lead animal care operations at one of Florida’s most exciting attractions This role is perfect for an aquarist who thrives on high standards, teamwork, leadership, and innovation—and who’s just as comfortable mentoring teammates as they are diving into large-scale exhibits 錄<h2> About the Role</h2>As a Senior Aquarist, you’ll work closely with the Curator and Displays Supervisor to lead the day-to-day work of our animal care team, supporting Aquarists and Husbandry Assistants while ensuring outstanding animal welfare and inspiring guest experiences.You’ll be a key connector—acting as a liaison between leadership and frontline staff—helping organize workloads, share best practices, and ensure the team has the tools and knowledge needed to succeed. You’ll also collaborate with Senior Aquarists across SEA LIFE attractions to brainstorm, problem-solve, and maintain consistency company-wide This is a full-time, benefited position with growth, leadership, and impact at its core.

Qualifications & Experience:
<h2>吝 Key Responsibilities</h2><h3> Leadership & Team Support</h3> Assist the Displays Supervisor in guiding the Displays Team to deliver exceptional daily husbandry Serve as a role model for professionalism, work ethic, and SEA LIFE values Support training, mentoring, and development of Aquarists and Husbandry Assistants Lead daily tasks and meetings when leadership is absent (without direct supervision duties)<h3> Animal Care & Welfare</h3>️ Ensure the highest standards of animal welfare across all marine, freshwater, reptile, and amphibian exhibits  Maintain and oversee accurate records for animal care, diving, water quality, and health  Assist with animal transports, quarantine, disease diagnosis, treatments, and vet rounds 易 Educate team members on disease recognition, medication calculations, and husbandry best practices<h3>離 Life Support Systems (LSS) & Water Quality</h3> Monitor and manage water quality parameters across all exhibits 藺 Maintain, troubleshoot, and teach others about filtration systems, protein skimmers, UV, ozone, reactors, and plumbing ️ Assist in designing, building, repairing, and improving aquarium life support systems  Ensure chemistries are within range and work with leadership when corrective action is needed<h3>錄 Diving & Exhibit Maintenance</h3> Perform and lead SCUBA diving operations in large-scale exhibits (200,000+ gallons!) 麗 Dive with sharks, rays, turtles, and more in closed environments 識 Support underwater cleaning, maintenance, animal collections, and guest dive shows 麟 Maintain company-issued dive gear and diver areas to SEA LIFE standards<h3> Guest Experience, Education & Conservation</h3> Support Animal Ambassador and Education programs  Present confidently to guests, media, and professional audiences  Champion conservation initiatives and help develop new conservation projects  Inspire guests through engaging storytelling and world-class displays<h2> Background, Experience & Qualifications</h2><h3>易 Experience</h3> Minimum 5 years of professional aquarium experience At least 1 year in a leadership/lead-of-the-day role Experience with diverse taxa including fish, invertebrates, elasmobranchs, reptiles, amphibians, and more Strong background in water quality, life support systems, and animal health<h3>錄 Dive Requirements</h3> Open Water SCUBA certification required Rescue Diver certification preferred (or ability to obtain) 1–2 years diving in public aquarium exhibits (70,000+ gallons preferred) Ability to pass swim test, dive physical, and obtain First Aid/CPR/AED/DAN O<h3> Education</h3> B.A./B.S. in Life Sciences or accredited aquarium/zoological program required<h2>了 Health, Safety & Compliance</h2>️ Ensure compliance with AZA, USDA, and Merlin Health & Safety standards  Assist with SOP development, risk assessments, and safety training  Ensure accurate incident reporting and proactive risk management<h2> Work Environment & Schedule</h2> Flexible schedule required (weekends, holidays, evenings) ️ Work in wet, variable-temperature environments ️ Lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks throughout full shifts  On-call emergency response may be required<h3> Why Join SEA LIFE Orlando?</h3>Because here, you don’t just care for animals—you lead, innovate, inspire, and protect the ocean while shaping the next generation of aquarists  

Benefits:
 Benefits of Joining Merlin Entertainments!  Excellent Health Care Options: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.  Outstanding Paid Time Off (PTO): Enjoy well-deserved breaks to recharge!  Merlin Magic Pass: Free entry for friends and family to our amazing parks & attractions.   Recognition Programs and Rewards: Celebrate your achievements and hard work!  401(k) Program: Save for the future with company matching contributions.  Tuition Reimbursement Programs: Get support for further education and career growth.  Numerous Learning and Advancement Opportunities: Grow your skills and advance your career with us! Ready to be a part of the magic? Apply today and start your adventure with Merlin Entertainments!   <img alt="dc_badge1" src="https://merlinentertainments.icims.com/icims2/servlet/icims2?module=AppInert&action=download&id=82876&hashed=-2063488129"/>

Pay Range:
USD $24.00/Hr.

SEA LIFE

Senior Aquarist

[AW]-iCims

Tanganyika is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Aquarist / Life Support Systems Technician to support the daily care of aquatic animals and the operation, maintenance, and improvement of life support systems (LSS). This role will be responsible for bringing a new aquarium and touch tank area online including setting up water quality lab and assisting in acquiring animals.

YEAR

TANGANYIKA WILDLIFE PARK LLC

Aquarist/Life Support Systems Specialist

TEMPORARY

From caring for our marine fish and invertebrates and maintaining the underwater exhibits, to assisting with exhibit modification and monitoring life support systems and water quality, our Aquarists play a vital role in the daily operations of the Oceans Department. This position participates in area chats and feeds, works closely with a diverse collection of marine fish and invertebrate species, and supports the overall health of aquatic systems.

DIVE into an exciting opportunity with the Indianapolis Zoo! We are currently seeking a seasonal Aquarist to join our Oceans team! From caring for our marine fish and invertebrates and maintaining the underwater exhibits, to assisting with exhibit modification and monitoring life support systems and water quality, our Aquarists play a vital role in the daily operations of the Oceans Department. Ideal candidates are committed to advancing the Zoo's mission to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world. This position participates in area chats and feeds, works closely with a diverse collection of marine fish and invertebrate species, and supports the overall health of aquatic systems. Prior experience working with marine fish, invertebrates, and water quality is highly desirable. The successful candidate will be team-oriented, adaptable, and possess the temperament necessary to work safely and confidently with aquatic animals. Strong observational skills and attention to detail are essential. Position Requirements and Experience:<ul><li>Prior work experience involving animal care is strongly preferred. College course work in a suitable animal-related field may be substituted for work experience.</li><li>Must follow all safety Policies and Procedures of the Indianapolis Zoo.</li><li>Professional experience in animal training, care, and conservation preferred.</li></ul><ul><li>Must be able to work with a variety of fish and marine invertebrate species.</li><li>Knowledge of water quality, testing procedures and nitrogen cycle is preferred but not required.</li></ul><ul><li style="color:#000000;background:#ffffff">The ability to perform daily husbandry tasks and manual work involving the care and maintenance of the animals and exhibits under this position's care.</li><li>Primarily an indoor setting but occasionally will be exposed to outdoor environment and conditions to move from building to building. </li></ul><ul><li>High school diploma or equivalent is required. Bachelor's degree in a Life Science area from an accredited college/university in life sciences is strongly preferred.</li></ul> To apply:<ul><li>Interested candidates must complete an online application.</li><li>To be considered, applicants must include a resume, cover letter, and salary requirements. </li></ul> Employment at the Indianapolis Zoo is contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment testing including a background check, motor vehicle check (if applicable) and a drug test. Job Posted by ApplicantPro

Indianapolis Zoo

Seasonal Aquarist

Talent Acquisition

ADAPTED_NOW

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. Dependent upon the level of the Aquarist, develops, executes, and adjusts, or assists with development, execution, and adjustment of strategies to effectively meet the behavioral needs of assigned animals, including enrichment and operant conditioning.

The New England Aquarium is seeking an Aquarist to join our Changing Exhibits (CE) and Interactive Exhibits (IE) teams. These teams are responsible for a diverse and dynamic portfolio of exhibits, including shorebirds, the Trust Family Foundation Shark and Ray Touch Tank, seahorses, live mangroves, coral reefs, sharks and rays, and jellies. They also oversee key programs such as live food culture, jelly culture, shark and ray rearing, herp ambassador programs, and headstart turtle initiatives. The level of the Aquarist position will be determined based on the qualifications and experience of the selected applicant. This position will provide daily husbandry of the animals in the CE/IE collections. Responsibilities also include maintaining the appearance and function of assigned exhibits and support spaces, assisting with specimen acquisition, and supporting the setup, modification, and maintenance of exhibits and holding systems, along with other related duties.This is a full-time, regular, on-site position offering a comprehensive benefits package. The schedule will be Tuesday-Saturday, 8:00am-5:00pm. Candidates must be available to work occasional holidays, and nights, and respond to emergencies during off hours. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS <ol><li style="line-height:normal">Provides daily care of assigned animals, 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. May advise less experienced Aquarists on the daily operations of the life support system. </li><li style="line-height:normal">Makes daily observations of animals for health assessment according to established norms of animal behavior and appearance. In conjunction with the Animal Health Department, and dependent upon the level of Aquarist, identifies common diseases for the animals within the collection; may establish appropriate dietary regime, and administer medications and supplements as directed. </li><li style="line-height:normal">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. Senior-level Aquarists will train and support Aquarist 1s and Aquarist 2s in proper record keeping and adherence to institutional policy. </li><li style="line-height:normal">Performs routine Animal Welfare assessments. Dependent upon the level of Aquarist, and under the direction of the Area Manager, this position will either help to facilitate, or lead, appropriate action responses to ensure the highest standards of animal care are met. </li><li style="line-height:normal">In conjunction with the Environmental Quality Department and under the direction of the Area Manager, manages water quality and environmental parameters in assigned exhibits and holding tanks. Senior Aquarists will mentor others in analyzing results and taking corrective action as needed. </li><li style="line-height:normal">Applies responsible population management practices in making recommendations during the annual collection planning exercise, in addition to helping facilitate the acquisition and disposition of animals. Senior-level Aquarists facilitate and execute the acquisitions and dispositions of animals through approved mechanisms of the following arrangements: transfers, breeding, rehabilitation, collection and purchasing. Senior Aquarists will also lead and mentor others during coordination and planning.</li><li style="line-height:normal">Dependent upon the level of the Aquarist, develops, executes, and adjusts, or assists with development, execution, and adjustment of strategies to effectively meet the behavioral needs of assigned animals, including enrichment and operant conditioning. </li><li style="line-height:normal">Manages life support systems and, dependent upon the level of the Aquarist, participates in or leads the design, upgrade, and installation of such systems. Senior Aquarists will mentor Aquarist 1s and Aquarist 2s on system design and problem solving.</li><li style="line-height:normal">May need to demonstrate competency as a SCUBA diver, collector, and transport driver. </li><li style="line-height:normal">Provides alternate coverage for other aquarists and is available for cross-training as assigned. </li><li style="line-height:normal">Depending on assignment, may be routinely expected to engage with the public through in-person or virtual presentations. </li><li style="line-height:normal">Senior Aquarist level may assume the role of acting Manager as needed, and supervise interns and volunteers, including training, scheduling, and performance management. </li></ol>QUALIFICATIONS Minimum Training and Experience <ul><li style="line-height:normal">Animal husbandry or related experience required.<ul><li style="line-height:normal">Minimum 6 months of experience to be considered for Aquarist 1.</li><li style="line-height:normal">Minimum 2 years of experience to be considered for Aquarist 2.</li><li style="line-height:normal">Minimum 5 years of experience to be considered for Senior Aquarist</li></ul></li><li style="line-height:normal">Bachelor's degree with a concentration in science preferred.</li><li style="line-height:normal">Internationally recognized SCUBA diving certification preferred.</li></ul>Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities <ul><li style="line-height:normal">Aquarist 2 and Senior Aquarist candidates must have the ability to apply broad knowledge of the Aquarium field, including animal husbandry, mechanical systems, collecting techniques, and exhibit design. </li><li style="line-height:normal">Aquarist 2 and Senior Aquarist candidates should possess strong leadership skills and be able to apply those skills as a mentor and resource for volunteers, interns, and less experienced Aquarists. </li><li style="line-height:normal">Ability to obtain/maintain Medical Examiner's authorization to SCUBA dive in accordance with NEAQ Diving Program preferred. </li><li style="line-height:normal">Valid Driver's License, a good driving record, and the willingness to drive a 24' box truck required. </li><li style="line-height:normal">Proven ability to collaborate effectively with a large group of peers and colleagues across departments and organizational levels, as well as work independently. Good judgment, organization, and problem-solving skills. </li><li style="line-height:normal">Excellent written and verbal communication.</li><li style="line-height:normal">Ability to foster good interpersonal relationships with colleagues. </li><li style="line-height:normal">Ability to serve as a mentor and/or resource for Assistant Aquarists, apprentices, volunteers, interns, and co-ops.</li><li style="line-height:normal">Must be comfortable working in confined spaces with the ability to stoop and/or kneel for portions of each shift in low clearance exhibits. Candidates must also be able to push, pull, lift, and carry up to 50 pounds. </li></ul>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.

Aquarist Jobs in the United States

MISSISSIPPI AQUARIUM

SEA LIFE

TANGANYIKA WILDLIFE PARK LLC

Indianapolis Zoo

New England Aquarium