Aquarist
The Aquarist, under the supervision of the Aquatic Husbandry Supervisors and Director of Husbandry, is primarily responsible for providing exceptional husbandry to the aquatic animals. Responsibilities include daily dietary and behavioral observations,cleaning and maintaining exhibit and holding areas, and keeping accurate and timely records. The Aquarist uses independent judgment and critical thinking, while understanding that an individual animal’s ability to exert meaningful choice and control is central to excellent welfare. The Aquarist practices excellent communication skills and models positive, encouraging behaviors to nurture the team-oriented environment. The Aquarist also demonstrates a commitment to reaching the goals and objectives of the department and mission of the California Science Center Foundation.
Functions & Responsibilities
Essential Functions
Responsible for the daily husbandry of aquatic collections, which includes teleost and elasmobranch fish, temperate coastal invertebrates, and corals. May provide care and husbandry to other living collections as needed, including terrestrial animals.
Conducts daily observation and timely recording of animal health indicators such as, animal diet intake, body condition, and behavior. Prompt reporting of noted abnormalities or health concerns and treatment of injured/diseased individuals as prescribed by the veterinarian.
Prepares diet and feeds animal collection through various methods, including scuba diving.
Keeps exhibits and surrounding spaces clean and well maintained, ensuring equipment and tools are clean, organized, and functioning properly.
Ensures that strict cross contamination protocols are followed, and any breaches of those protocols are documented.
Practices good judgment in decision-making related to animal care, emergency situations, and projects.
Communicates effectively and works collaboratively with the Senior Aquarist and Director of Husbandry to meet the highest standards of animal care.
Assists with collecting trips including boat operations, line fishing, scuba diving and shore collection.
Assists with acquiring specimens through organization of trades/loans/purchases with other zoological institutions, suppliers, and collection trips when required.
Works independently and collaboratively with the aquatic Husbandry team on daily tasks and special projects.
Trains, develops, and oversees the work of aquatic Husbandry volunteers.
Adheres to and abides by Federal, State, and local agency laws, regulations, codes, and ordinances, and AZA standards.
Contributes to the strategic goals of the Living Collections department by promoting, supporting, and engaging in a positive, fun, and compassionate working environment.
Ability to represent the California Science Center Foundation in a professional manner.
Performs other duties as required.
Skills & Experience
Knowledge & Skills
GOOD CANDIDATE:
Must possess strong observational skills to ensure animal health and safety.
Has knowledge of safe animal handling practices and maintaining a safe working environment.
Possesses the ability to work safely in wet conditions and outdoors in inclement weather.
Has the capacity to lift and carry 50 pounds, kneel, bend, crouch, squat, stand for extended periods of time and to operate power tools safely.
Must have at least 50 logged dives and Rescue Diver Certification or the ability to get certification within 4 months of hire, the ability to pass annual dive physical requirements, and the ability to maintain active diver status with the California Science Center.
Must possess sound judgment and ability to use common sense for effective decision-making.
Has strong written and verbal communication skills.
Has well rounded computer (MS Office programs such as Excel, Word, and Outlook) and organizational skills.
Can work independently as well as within a team environment.
Possesses the dexterity to train and work alongside volunteers while setting a positive example.
Can work a flexible schedule that includes weekends and holidays as required.
GREAT CANDIDATE:
Bachelor’s degree in marine biology, Biology, related field, OR equivalent experience.
Has at least one year of experience providing daily husbandry to aquatic animals, preferably at an AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) accredited institution.
Understands modern principles of animal care and welfare, including behavioral enrichment, medical treatments, exhibit displays, nutrition, disease, transport, and training.
Acquired exposure or knowledge of temperate Pacific or tropical ecosystems, larval rearing, and associated culturing of live foods.
Has experience diving in both the open ocean and aquarium setting.
Has training utilizing the Tracks record-keeping system
Possesses familiarity with Federal, State, and local laws regulating collection and care of exotic animals and knowledge of AZA standards guiding animal care protocols.
