Organization: Mystic Aquarium/Sea Research Foundation
(AZA Member)
Location: Mystic, CT, United States
Job or Internship: Job
Position: Aquarist Department: Fish & InvertebratesImmediate Supervisor: Supervisor of Fish & InvertebratesSenior Aquarist (if Supervisor isn’t available) Curator Fish & InvertebratesEmployment Classification: Full-time, Non-exemptJOB SUMMARY:The primary responsibilities of the aquarist is to maintain facility standards and expectations for the appearance and upkeep of assigned exhibits, their associated life support systems, and the care of assigned animals. The successful applicant will be assigned to specific areas within the aquarium and can also be called upon for other areas. Essential Duties and Responsibilities:1. Provide daily cleaning and care of assigned exhibits and life support systems; ensure daily check sheets are up to date.2. Feed animals according to established feed schedules, recommend changes as necessary.3. Perform daily visual health assessments on all animals; report any unusual health concerns immediately to the Senior Medical Aquarist, Supervisor, and Curator.4. Work with the Senior Medical Aquarist and veterinarian team to maintain high animal care standards. 5. Assist with policy and protocol development as needed.6. Manage water quality in assigned exhibits and holding tanks.7. Participate in the construction and care of exhibit life support systems, including routine preventative maintenance on equipment.8. Maintain appropriate record keeping, daily care, husbandry requirements, and acquisition/disposition.9. Provide alternate coverage for other aquarists as assigned.10. Ensure all husbandry areas are kept clean, organized and hazard free.11. Participate in the construction and care of exhibit life support systems, including routine preventative maintenance on equipment.12. Weekly maintenance dives within the gallery and animal behavioral training, must be SCUBA certified.13. Respond to emergency calls (if on duty)14. Work in cooperation and coordination with all other institutional departments.15. Maintain current up to date knowledge on biology, ecology and husbandry of all animals being cared for.16. Work cooperatively with volunteer dive staff to ensure exhibit cleanliness, both inside and in surrounding areas.17. Familiarity with the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure a safe working environment all times.18. Participates in Aquarium related education, PR and membership programs including facility tours.19. Perform all other duties as assigned by supervisor or curator.Qualifications Necessary to Perform the Job:This position must have previous experience with aquariums and a background related to fishes and invertebrates. Experience with, understanding of, and aptitude for maintaining fish, invertebrates, reptiles, and amphibians is essential. The successful applicant must demonstrate an understanding of the operation of equipment necessary to maintain live exhibits. Knowledge and skills with minor carpentry, plumbing, and painting is a preferred. The successful applicant must have the strength and endurance to perform physical demands associated with essential job functions; with or without assistance. Demonstrated knowledge of the captive care and management of fish and invertebrates is essential.Minimum Job Requirements: Bachelor's degree in related discipline and experience in fishes and invertebrates husbandry and exhibition in an aquarium setting. Knowledge and skills with minor carpentry, plumbing, and painting is a preferred. SCUBA certification is a must. Please visit our website at www.mysticaquarium.org or submitt your resume to humanresources@mysticaquarium.org