AQUARIST JOB DESCRIPTION

An Aquarist manages what visitors never see: the chemistry, filtration, and biological balance that keeps a living collection alive. Without that daily oversight, water parameters drift, disease goes undetected, and AZA accreditation standards slip. This role sits within the animal care department of a public aquarium or zoological institution, reporting to a Curator or Displays Supervisor. The Aquarist owns a defined species collection spanning marine and freshwater taxa, making specimen-level husbandry decisions that directly determine exhibit health outcomes.

As the Aquarist, you deliver daily husbandry, life support system maintenance, and disease monitoring across an assigned collection of fish, invertebrates, amphibians, and reptiles within a public aquarium or zoological facility. You work within an animal care team under curatorial supervision, with regular coordination across veterinary staff, displays personnel, and volunteer programs.

Career Impact: Hands-on ownership of a live marine and freshwater collection - including SCUBA diving, specimen transport, and exhibit fabrication - builds the technical depth that distinguishes senior aquarists and curators in the zoological field.

Business Impact: Accurate water chemistry records and timely disease intervention keep collection mortality low and public exhibits at the presentation standard that sustains institutional reputation and repeat visitation.

Growth Opportunity: Experience spanning life support system construction, breeding program coordination, and AZA compliance standards creates a traceable path toward Senior Aquarist, Curatorial Assistant, or Collection Manager roles.

• Deliver daily feeding, diet preparation, and nutritional monitoring across assigned marine and freshwater specimens to maintain target body condition.
• Maintain life support systems including filtration, UV sterilization, and water chemistry equipment to sustain required parameters for each species.
• Conduct regular water quality tests and adjust chemical parameters to keep all systems within established safety ranges.
• Monitor assigned specimens daily for behavioral and physical indicators of disease, and coordinate treatment plans with veterinary and curatorial staff.
• Maintain detailed husbandry records covering feeding, water quality, medical events, and specimen weight to support trend analysis and compliance reporting.
• Participate in specimen acquisition, transport, acclimation, and quarantine procedures in accordance with institutional protocols.
• Support exhibit design, system fabrication, and display maintenance to meet the educational and aesthetic standards of the institution.
• Perform SCUBA diving for exhibit cleaning, target feeding, and interior maintenance as scheduled.

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Marine Science, or a related life science field, or equivalent work experience.
• 1 or more years of hands-on animal care experience in a public aquarium, zoological facility, or comparable aquatic setting.
• Working knowledge of closed aquatic life support systems including mechanical filtration, biological filtration, and water chemistry management.
• Demonstrated ability to recognize common fish and invertebrate diseases and apply appropriate quarantine and treatment protocols.
• Open Water SCUBA certification from a recognized agency, or ability to obtain certification prior to start date.
• Ability to maintain accurate daily records and communicate observations clearly to veterinary and curatorial colleagues.
• Physical capacity to lift and carry up to 50 lbs, work on wet and uneven surfaces, climb ladders, and perform SCUBA-related tasks.

• Experience with exhibit construction or life support system fabrication, including basic plumbing of PVC systems over 1 inch diameter.
• Familiarity with AZA husbandry standards and USDA compliance requirements applicable to zoological collections.
• Boat handling experience and participation in field collection trips using nets, seines, or hook-and-line methods.
• Prior experience training or mentoring volunteers, interns, or junior staff within an animal care setting.

• Specimen mortality rate within assigned collection, measured against institutional baseline per quarter.
• Water parameter variance frequency, tracking how often chemistry falls outside established species-specific ranges.
• Husbandry record completion rate, reflecting daily log accuracy across feeding, weight, and medical entries.
• Disease detection-to-treatment interval, measuring days between first observation and confirmed veterinary response.
• Exhibit presentation score during internal audits, reflecting cleanliness and biological display standards.
• Typical tools: animal records management software (commonly Tracks or ZIMS); water quality instrumentation (commonly YSI or equivalent multiparameter meters).

• Base Salary Range: $35,000 to $52,000 per year depending on experience and institution size.
• Bonus: Uncommon at this level; occasional merit increases tied to performance review cycles.
• Equity: Not typically offered in nonprofit zoological or aquarium settings.
• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage; employer contribution varies by institution.
• PTO: 10 to 15 days annually plus institutional holidays; weekend availability required.
• Common Perks: Free or discounted facility admission, professional development funding for AZA conferences, SCUBA recertification support.

Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

Reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. All applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Employment in this role is contingent on satisfactory completion of a background check. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.

The Aquarist owns daily care and maintenance of aquatic displays, including diet preparation, SCUBA diving for exhibit upkeep, and specimen transport within an established displays team. This role shapes animal care standards across public and behind-the-scenes systems while supporting the long-term development goals of the aquarium.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide daily care of animal exhibits including diet preparation, feeding, general care and maintenance of aquatic displays in accordance with established protocols.
• Assist the displays team with the management and oversight of all husbandry and life support of aquarium systems while ensuring a consistently high standard of animal care and displays presentation throughout all public and behind scenes.
• Maintain and prepare accurate daily records for aquarium systems and exhibit specimens. Interacts with guests, management, veterinarians, and other individuals as required.
• Assist the Senior Displays staff with the husbandry and life support of aquarium systems while ensuring a consistently high standard of animal care.
• Weekly SCUBA diving for exhibit maintenance and target feeding.
• Assist with specimen transports, water quality testing, quarantine, diagnosis and treatment of fish disease.
• Assist in the continual development of the displays areas in line with the long term goals of the company.

Required Qualifications

• Have a clear history of working with a variety of marine and freshwater species of fish and invertebrates in a professional setting.
• Hold a Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences (beneficial but not required).
• Obtain and hold a current First Aid and CPR certification and valid Driver's License.
• Have experience with life support systems including sand filters, UV sterilizers and protein skimmers (beneficial).
• Identify common fish diseases and apply appropriate treatments.
• Work weekends and flexible hours, must pass a pre-employment placement physical and be at least 16 years of age.

Embedded within a museum collections team, the Aquarist delivers comprehensive husbandry and life support management across fish, invertebrate, bird, reptile, and plant exhibits. Working closely with Curatorial staff and veterinary personnel, this role advances conservation outcomes by maintaining animal health standards, accurate records, and breeding program integrity across all public and reserve systems.

Core Functions

• Establish and maintain an environment conducive to the health and well-being of all animals within the Museums collection.
• Completes inspection rounds of specimens, exhibits and reserve tanks to check status and identify and report potential problems. Resolves problems independently where possible.
• Prepares food and feeds assigned fish and invertebrate collection as well as cross coverage for birds, reptiles and plants in accordance with dietary needs. Cleans and provides daily maintenance to food preparation areas, food preparation equipment and utensils.
• Prepares diets and diet supplements according to established protocols to ensure nutrition and vitamin content are maintained to keep specimens at peak health.
• Follow established feeding schedules, feed appropriate amounts, monitor weights, develop strategies for inappetent specimens, and utilize various feeding techniques across exhibits and reserve tanks housing multiple species.
• Maintain live food holding tanks and cultures; observe and recognize medical conditions, discuss therapy with veterinary and Curatorial staff, and administer medications and quarantine procedures as needed.
• Maintain detailed daily husbandry records and review regularly to identify important trends; research species husbandry techniques through literature review or hands-on research.
• Assist with animal physicals, field collection trips, system design and fabrication; respond to diver, life-support and animal related emergencies, at times after hours.
• Participate in and present at workshops, seminars, lectures, and member programs; provide back-up support to other departments as needed.
• Work with Curatorial staff to initiate and oversee viable breeding, husbandry and conservation programs, coordinate daily activities through effective communication with staff and volunteers.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Biology or related field.
• Open Water SCUBA certification; boat handling and field collection experience preferred.
• Experience in aquarium or zoological field with emphasis on closed aquatic systems.
• Knowledge of husbandry procedures for fish, invertebrates, and other aquatic life, and of life support systems and water quality parameters.
• Ability to construct and operate aquatic Life Support Systems, including plumbing and carpentry, and use hand and power tools.
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, internet navigation, email, spreadsheet programs, and database management.
• Keen observation, detail orientation, problem-solving, mentoring, and professional relationship management skills.
• Ability to follow laws and regulations relating to the care of wildlife in accordance with Museum and industry best practices.

Reporting to the New England Aquarium camp leadership, the Aquarist leads field-based marine and environmental science instruction for youth groups of up to 26 participants across Harbor Discoveries and AASI programs. Partnering with assistant instructors and teenage junior counselors, this role builds ocean stewardship literacy through gallery tours, boat excursions, overnight experiences, and weekly theme-based science projects.

Primary Duties

• Ensure the safety of all participants, staff and volunteers.
• Guide groups in field study and activities in the Aquarium, on boat trips and on all day excursions.
• Administer first aid for campers and camp staff when needed; supervise waterfront activities, occasionally serving as camp lifeguard.
• Lead campers during overnight camping experiences (AASI only).
• Co-develop and direct weekly theme-based science projects and activities using thought-provoking, engaging, and creative teaching methods.
• Teach participants to observe, discover, and appreciate the natural world and Aquarium galleries to develop an ethic of ocean stewardship.
• Promote appropriate behavior and serve as a positive role model for participants and other staff.
• Present behind-the-scenes tours, Giant Ocean Tank talks or Live Animal presentations for campers.
• Oversee preparation and clean-up of all program-related activities and equipment both on and offsite.
• Supervise and mentor other staff, including teenaged Counselors in Training (Harbor Discoveries only), think on your feet to adjust to shifting conditions for maximum learning potential.

Skills & Qualifications

• Hold current waterfront lifeguard, first aid, and CPR certification (or higher) by the start of Camp, partial compensation for certification fees may be available.
• Minimum 1–3 years' experience teaching or coordinating environmental education science-based programs outdoors or in an informal classroom setting.
• Minimum 6 months - 2 years' experience creating curriculum, activities, or other environmental education related content.
• Strong background in marine biology, freshwater ecology, geology and related sciences, or significant familiarity with the Aquarium (250+ hours as staff, volunteer, or intern).
• Hiking, camping, and outdoor living experience required, willingness to lead one-week offsite experiences round the clock (AASI only).
• Exceptional organizational, leadership, and communication skills; public speaking and/or second language competency helpful.
• Valid driver's license, clean driving record, and minimum two years driving experience, 15-passenger van experience preferred (AASI only).
• Must be at least 21 years old to comply with camp licensing regulations, proven experience working with and mentoring teenagers from diverse racial and socio-economic backgrounds.

Sitting at the intersection of animal husbandry and public exhibit development, the Aquarist supports the Fish and Invertebrates Department at the Aquarium of Niagara by delivering diet preparation, tank maintenance, and scientifically accurate display development under the Supervisor of Fish and Invertebrates. Operating across fresh and marine species including fishes, invertebrates, amphibians, and reptiles, this role enables the aquarium to uphold AZA and USDA standards while advancing its educational mission.

Duties

• Take a primary role in acquisition, care and public display of the living collection including fresh and marine fishes, invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles and plants.
• Possess and apply strong knowledge of specimens' natural history, biology, behavior, and husbandry requirements, including individual animal histories.
• Assist in routine animal handling procedures including physical exams, weights, and blood work to monitor health and well-being.
• Recognize emergency conditions related to animal health and safety and implement an immediate response regardless of day, time, or staffing limitations.
• Provide sound general animal husbandry including enrichment, feedings, training protocols, and upkeep of animal enclosures and tank maintenance.
• Possess working knowledge of dietary and nutritional needs of aquatic animals and assure these needs are met through planning and procurement of appropriate food and supplements.
• Be aware of common diseases, infections, and parasite infestations of captive fishes, invertebrates, amphibians, and reptiles.
• Assist in developing educational, innovative, and scientifically accurate living and non-living exhibits and displays.
• Uphold USDA and AZA standards across all areas of operation including fish kitchen, animal areas, laboratory, and medical facilities.

Requirements

• College degree in life sciences or biology preferred, or 1–2 years of equivalent training and experience.
• SCUBA certification through an accredited diving agency with documented 10 hours of recreational and/or facility maintenance diving.
• Relevant hands-on experience in aquatic animal care, husbandry, and exhibit development with emphasis on fresh and marine fishes, invertebrates, amphibians, and reptiles.
• Maintain working knowledge of water chemistry and water quality parameters, and procedures to apply when levels are out of normal range.
• Demonstrate proficiency in public speaking and guest interaction.
• Ability to work on a team and independently with little supervision, lift and carry 50 lbs; work on uneven and slippery surfaces, and withstand varied temperatures.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.

A key member of the Blue Wonders team at the National Aquarium, the Aquarist delivers day-to-day specimen care, life support system maintenance, and exhibit construction across the Blue Wonders Galleries area, including both a Maryland Gallery and Floating assignment. Collaborating across veterinary, curatorial, and visitor engagement functions, this role supports animal welfare and public education outcomes for full-time gallery operations on a weekend and holiday schedule.

Functions

• Provide assigned specimens with excellent day-to-day care through approved husbandry practices and standards.
• Keep exhibits and holding systems well maintained via hydro-cleaning, water changes, filter backwashing, and related cleaning procedures.
• Maintain life support systems, related equipment, and back-up spaces and work areas.
• Participate in the acquisition, transport, and acclimation of specimens.
• Participate in the design, construction, and maintenance of exhibits and holding systems, including life support material and equipment.
• Administer medical treatments with the guidance of the veterinarians and curatorial team.
• Be accountable for the animals and systems under care in respective exhibits; provide coverage and support for other sections as assigned.
• Maintain detailed records on feeding, maintenance, and other husbandry related tasks; become proficient in Tracks animal data management software.
• Conduct presentations and interact with visitors.

Experience & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Marine Science or related field; or advanced college-level related coursework; or comparable work experience.
• Ability to obtain SCUBA certification from a recognized organization, pass a dive physical examination and swim skills assessment.
• At least 1 year of experience working with aquatic taxa in a public aquarium or zoological setting.
• Knowledge of water chemistry, aquatic husbandry, biology, marine science, and taxonomy of marine fish and invertebrates, and of aquarium life support systems for closed systems.
• Excellent observational, decision-making, problem-solving, and reporting skills; strong interpersonal skills and professionalism.
• Ability to obtain a MD driver's license; available to work holidays, weekends, and evenings; Floating Aquarist requires a non-negotiable Thursday–Monday schedule.
• Ability to climb ladders and lift and carry 50 lbs.

Comprehensive animal welfare across fish, invertebrates, amphibians, and reptiles depends on the Aquarist, who owns daily husbandry, life support system operation, and disease recognition across all holding enclosures and exhibits within an assigned freshwater care area. Based within a zoological facility, this role enables consistent species health outcomes by maintaining water quality, environmental parameters, and current knowledge of natural history for every animal under care.

Accountabilities

• Provide daily care and maintenance of reptiles, amphibians, fish and invertebrates.
• Determine individual animals' nutritional needs and secure, culture, prepare and feed assigned animals.
• Train, develop and oversee the work of volunteers and interns assigned to the individual's area of responsibility.
• Participate in specimen transports, water quality testing, diagnosis and treatment of fish and terrestrial animal diseases.
• Maintain proper water quality, environmental parameters, and lighting requirements to ensure the health of all organisms.
• Make daily observations of animals for health and behavioral assessment and amend or report issues as they arise.
• Maintain all established records in accordance with established practice and policy.
• Adhere to all safety protocols and maintain all husbandry areas, supplies and equipment.

Technical Qualifications

• A college degree (A.A., A.S., B.A., or B.S.) with emphasis on biology or science, or equivalent hands-on work experience.
• Open Water SCUBA Certification strongly preferred, valid driver's license required.
• 1 year of experience caring for animals in a public aquarium, zoological facility, or related setting.
• Knowledge of disease identification and treatment, biological processes relating to water chemistry, physiology, and animal health.
• Proficiency in plumbing PVC pipe over 1", ability to operate hand and power tools and work with venomous and/or dangerous animals and various cleaning chemicals.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, attention to detail; ability to identify all animals in assigned systems and understand their natural history and captive requirements.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs., swim, stand and walk ladders for long periods, and work long hours, weekends and holidays.

As the Aquarist Animal Care, this role leads water quality testing, life support system operation, and daily animal exhibit husbandry within a resort aquarium setting while maintaining S.H.O.W. service standards for guest engagement. The animal care team relies on this work to ensure exhibit health, accurate records, and timely veterinary communication that sustain both animal welfare and visitor experience quality.

Activities

• Engage, entertain and inspire all who visit by making a focused commitment to S.H.O.W. service standards.
• Assist in testing, evaluating and maintaining water quality using laboratory grade equipment.
• Prepare animal diets and daily feedings; observe the animal collection daily and communicate health-related issues to the Curator of Aquariums and Staff Veterinary Team in a timely manner.
• Assist with diagnosis of diseases, medical treatments and procedures, necropsies, and specimen transports.
• Inspect, maintain, repair and operate life support systems and filtration equipment.
• Assist in husbandry, daily care of animal exhibits, dive to clean interior of aquarium, make repairs, and catch fish.
• Maintain accurate up-to-date records and observation logs; interact with guests to share knowledge and answer questions about the aquariums and their inhabitants.

Position Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent, undergraduate degree in Life Science preferred.
• One (1) year of related experience, aquatic animal care experience in a professional aquarium environment preferred.
• Experience operating and maintaining aquariums and working in a similar resort setting.
• Basic knowledge of computer software including Outlook, MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, as well as standard office equipment.
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills, ability to communicate effectively in English in both written and verbal forms.
• Ability to multi-task and work well in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment with conditions such as CRT fatigue, noise, dust, and smoke.
• Must be at least 18 years of age, available to work varied shifts including evenings, weekends, and holidays.