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

Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium consists of a 1.5-million-gallon Aquarium Adventure showcasing 35,000 animals and our immersive Wildlife Galleries sharing the story of America's most significant conservationists throughout history and today. Created by noted conservationist and Bass Pro Shops founder/CEO Johnny Morris, the 350,000-square-foot experience celebrates people who hunt, fish, and act as stewards of the land and water.

Join the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium in Springfield, MO, as a Full-Time Lead Aquarist and dive into an exciting career at the forefront of aquatic conservation and education. This onsite position allows you to work closely with a diverse range of marine life, enhancing your expertise while contributing to vital conservation efforts. Collaborate with a passionate team in a dynamic environment that prioritizes innovation and environmental stewardship. Enjoy a competitive salary of $20 per hour, reflecting your critical role in maintaining our world-class aquarium. You will be given great benefits such as Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), Life Insurance, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Account, Paid Time Off, and Employee Discounts. If you are an abundant thinker and problem solver eager to excel in a fun, customer-focused setting, this opportunity is perfect for you.Take your passion for aquatic life and turn it into a fulfilling career that inspires others. Apply today to make waves in wildlife education and conservation!<h3 style="text-transform:uppercase">Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium: Our Mission</h3>Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium consists of a 1.5-million-gallon Aquarium Adventure showcasing 35,000 animals and our immersive Wildlife Galleries sharing the story of America's most significant conservationists throughout history and today. In 2022, Wonders of Wildlife became accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Accreditation signifies our exemplary standards for animal welfare, scientific education, and staff training. Created by noted conservationist and Bass Pro Shops founder/CEO Johnny Morris, the 350,000-square-foot experience celebrates people who hunt, fish, and act as stewards of the land and water. Located next to Bass Pro Shops National Headquarters in Springfield, Missouri the campus is a centerpiece of America's Conservation Capital in Missouri's Ozark Mountains. Wonders of Wildlife has been voted "Best New Attraction in America" and "America's Best Aquarium" by the readers of USA TODAY. For more information, visit www.wondersofwildlife.org.<h3 style="text-transform:uppercase">What it's like to be a Lead Aquarist at Lead Aquarist</h3>Each morning begins with a review of team assignments and the exhibits under their care, setting the tone for a day rooted in collaboration and clear communication. As the primary contact for staff, the lead guides colleagues through challenges ensuring a supportive environment. Throughout the day, they demonstrate strong leadership by making sound decisions in animal care and responding to emergencies, particularly when Curatorial Staff are absent. Leads organize and oversee team operations, updating standard operating procedures and tracking the completion of daily chores, diets, enrichment, and husbandry changes. Their commitment extends beyond daily routines, fostering cooperation across departments and engaging in conservation projects with AZA and other partners.<h3 style="text-transform:uppercase">Make your move</h3>If you think this part-time job is a fit for what you are looking for, applying is a snap - just follow the instructions on this page. Good luck! Job Posted by ApplicantPro

Aquarist Jobs in the United States

MISSISSIPPI AQUARIUM

SEA LIFE

TANGANYIKA WILDLIFE PARK LLC

Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium