Aquarist

Role overview

Blue Planet Aquarium in Cheshire is hiring a full-time Aquarist for its Zoological team. This paid position offers an annual salary of £26,436.80 and the closing date for applications is 6 August 2026. The role suits someone with a strong interest in aquatic animal care, public engagement, and the day-to-day running of aquarium exhibits.

The successful candidate will work with a broad range of aquatic species, including native and tropical marine fish, aquatic reptiles and amphibians, and marine invertebrates. The job also involves caring for and monitoring the life support and filtration systems that are essential to animal welfare.

Key duties

• Support the Zoological team in operating and maintaining all aquarium displays.
• Deliver high standards of animal care and husbandry across the collection.
• Keep animal records accurately and in line with zoo licensing requirements.
• Clean, organise, and maintain plant rooms, tool rooms, laboratories, and quarantine areas.
• Monitor life support systems, including pumps, and report any issues to the Displays Supervisor or Curator.
• Interact politely and professionally with visitors to help create a positive impression of the aquarium.
• Take part in an emergency on-call rota when required.
• Support daily public presentations and regular education sessions, including speaking with visitors while carrying out routine tasks.
• Help ensure exhibits remain of the highest standard by balancing visitor experience, education, conservation awareness, fun, and animal welfare.

Candidate profile

The aquarium is looking for a personable communicator who is comfortable working both in public-facing situations and behind the scenes. Confidence in delivering talks and leading education sessions is important.

A relevant degree in Marine Biology, Zoology, Ecology, Marine Sciences, or a similar subject is required. The ideal candidate should also have solid knowledge of animal husbandry and welfare, experience with life support systems, the ability to design, build, and maintain aquaria, and some hands-on experience with PVC pipework and basic joinery.

A full manual driving licence is essential.

Additional information

This role sits within the Education sector and is offered on a full-time contract. Applications should be sent by email to the recruitment contact provided in the advertisement. The full job description will be shared at interview stage.

Benefits

Employees receive free entry to all Aspro Parks locations, free entry to Blue Planet Aquarium for family and friends, ongoing training and development, a complimentary shark diving experience after successful completion of the 6-month probation period, and a 25% discount in retail and catering outlets. The workplace is described as fun, inclusive, and diverse.

Values

The organisation places importance on customer service, honesty, respect, results, teamwork, and personal development.