Temporary Aquarist – Quarantine
This is 9 week temporary aquarist position in the Quarantine department. This aquarist is responsible for providing the highest possible quality of care to the animals under their assigned care, under the guidance of the Aquariums protocols and operational procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, medical treatment of systems, preparing and dispensing diets, testing and maintaining water quality and record keeping. The individual explores and stays up to date on the Natural history, environmental parameters, and husbandry requirements of the animals under the animals in that area. The individual assists others, and is engaged in seeking further knowledge and experience.
Functions & Responsibilities
Essential Functions
Complete inspection rounds at least twice daily (AM and PM), assessment of inhabitant behavior and health, LSS component function, reporting any signs of disease or issue immediately to Curator, Director of Husbandry, and Veterinarian accordingly.
Provides secondary coverage, and other coverage as assigned or needed.
Excellent written and oral communication skills in ZIMS, Email, and direct communication
Performs general husbandry functions without direct supervision
Maintains live exhibits and holding systems at a high level of quality
Prepare and dispense diets according to LLPA standards
Maintain the highest levels of cleanliness for systems, and work areas, including back of house space, at a level that is safe and hazard free, and presentable at all times
Areas should be presentable for any VIP or Back of House tours
Viewing windows should be clean and free of Algae, Backgrounds and décor should be presentable to guests
Routine maintenance of systems as guided by LLPA SOP’s
Report all non-functioning Life support equipment to the Curator/Assistant Curator and LSS Manager, or in an emergency the Director of Husbandry
Ensure proper lighting levels are achieved and maintained for the animals under the Aquarists care and responsibility
Maintain all daily and other records in accordance with LLPA SOP’s and protocols
Demonstrate flexibility in completing tasks, which may extend after normal working hours, Weekends and Holidays.
Collaborate with coworkers and/or colleagues from other institutions in aquarium techniques
Assist with and participate in animal transport, transfers and procedures
Any other duties, responsibilities or tasks as assigned
Skills & Experience
Knowledge & Skills
Maintain proper water quality and clarity to ensure the health of all inhabitants per LLPA standards and protocols.
Ensure proper care of Life Support equipment (LSS) through regular preventative maintenance and cleaning and reporting
Administer medications as needed under the direction of the Veterinarian, Director of Husbandry or Curator/Assistant Curator with supervision
Strong identification skills, ability to identify all animals and plants under the Aquarist care
Dive any assigned and other systems on a schedule or as assigned for presentations, cleaning, or animal care
Any other duties and tasks as assigned
Adherence to all LLPA safety training, SOP’s, protocols and standards.
Education & Experience
A College degree (A.A, A.S, B.A, or B.S) is preferred with an emphasis on biology/zoology or related scientific course work. Or, Equivalent hands on professional or volunteer experience and knowledge may be considered.
Open water SCUBA certification from a recognized agency preferred, but not required. It is required for permanent
Job Requirements
Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the individual to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
Ability to swim
Ability to stand for long periods of time
Ability to walk up and down ladders
Ability to work with various lab chemicals and cleaning chemicals
Ability to work with and operate power tools or heavy machinery
Working Conditions
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an individual encounters while performing the essential and critical functions of this job.
Hot and cold environments
Outdoor and indoor environments in varying weather conditions
Elevated platforms
Aquatic/Aquarium habitats
Uneven or unlevel work surfaces
Confined work spaces
Underwater environments (SCUBA)
Loud, noisy work spaces
Occasional sudden changes in routine, especially in emergent situations
