Aquarist

Position Overview and Responsibilities

This full-time role at Harborview Aquarium encompasses managing daily animal care operations, ensuring high standards of safety, education, and efficiency within the Life Sciences Department. The aquarist is entrusted with the wellbeing of animals, upkeep of habitats, and fostering a collaborative team environment.

• Conduct daily operations to uphold safety, courtesy, education, and readiness standards.
• Serve as a positive representative to institutions, professional bodies, and committees.
• Adhere strictly to health and safety regulations as per municipal, state, and federal guidelines.
• Provide comprehensive animal care and ensure habitats comply with facility policies.
• Implement cost-control measures, minimize waste, and maintain clear communication regarding expenses.
• Support development of new habitats and educational initiatives to enhance visitor experience.
• Maintain up-to-date electronic documentation on animal health, water quality, and system maintenance.
• Monitor and detect animal health issues, disease, and water quality problems; communicate concerns to senior staff and support treatment planning.
• Participate in emergency response efforts to protect guests, staff, animals, and property.
• Collaborate with the Guest Experience Department and Aquarium Foundation to create engaging educational programs.
• Work with volunteers and educators to ensure exemplary guest service and engagement.
• Complete required diving activities and other assigned duties.

Qualifications and Experience

• A minimum of one year’s experience in animal husbandry.
• Possession of PADI Open Water certification or equivalent, or ability to acquire within 90 days of hire.
• Preferred certifications include First Aid, Emergency Oxygen, and AED (training provided if necessary).
• Degree in wildlife or marine biology, or equivalent work experience.
• Demonstrated ability to design compelling habitats.
• Strong background in care of fresh and saltwater aquariums, reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals.
• Comprehensive knowledge of animal husbandry, disease prevention, treatment, and breeding practices.
• Familiarity with operant conditioning and environmental enrichment techniques.
• Detailed understanding of behavior, diet, and habitat requirements of diverse animal species.
• Experience working in public aquarium environments and with regulatory/accreditation bodies.
• Proficient with Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Excellent teamwork, interpersonal, organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Strong listening, presentation, and decision-making capabilities.
• Creative problem-solving aptitude in challenging scenarios.

Physical and Other Requirements

• Capability to walk, stand for extended periods, bend, crouch, climb, and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Potential to operate aquarium vehicles, heavy equipment, power tools, and handle chemicals safely.
• Effective English communication skills, both written and oral.
• Able to navigate moderately complex computer software.
• Vision and hearing adequate to identify emergencies promptly.
• Possible requirement for immunizations including tuberculosis testing and rabies vaccination.

Additional Information

• Compliance with company standards and policies is mandatory; infractions may lead to disciplinary actions including termination.
• The leisure operation functions daily; flexibility to work varying schedules, including weekends, holidays, and overtime, is required.
• Attendance at departmental or group meetings beyond regular shifts may be necessary.
• Job responsibilities listed are not exhaustive; other duties may be assigned as needed.