Aquarist 1 or 2

About the role

This position provides primary support to the Aquarium division for daily husbandry and related duties for aquatic fishes, invertebrates, and plants; and their exhibit and holding aquariums under the direct supervision of the Aquarium Curator at the Alaska SeaLife Center.

Responsibilities

• Aquarist 1:
  • Assists in the care, exhibition, and study of the aquarium collection of invertebrates, fishes, and plants.
  • Performs daily animal diet preparations, water quality testing, and routine cleaning of animal exhibits, holding pools, food preparation facilities, and aquarium work areas.
  • Participates in exhibit preparation, including exhibit changes and improvements, and modifications including lighting, habitat, and plumbing, lifting, and moving up to 50 pounds as needed.
  • Maintains aquatic habitat cleanliness and preparation for visitors.
  • Assists in health and care of the aquatic animals, including health observation and intervention for treatment.
  • Learns and applies proper disease recognition, diagnosis, and treatments.
  • Maintains and operates aquarium life support systems.
  • Monitors water quality of aquarium systems.
  • Keeps proper records in accordance with the ASLC and permit requirements.
  • Collects and transports specimens for exhibits while swimming and diving.
  • Participates in presentations to visitors and the public on topics in marine science and ASLC operations.
  • Serves as a volunteer and intern mentor and participates in intern development.
  • Cross trains with other husbandry staff for efficient use of staff resources.
  • Serves as a diver/dive tender during underwater activities carried out by the Alaska SeaLife Center.
  • Fosters good relations with visitors, volunteers, community leaders, contractors, and fellow staff members by promoting positive attitudes, goodwill, cooperation, and providing high standards of service.
  • Complies with all Alaska SeaLife Center policies, procedures, and programs.
• Aquarist 2:
  • Participate in organizing and managing field collection trips, exhibit upgrades and changes, and in-house research opportunities.
  • Serves as a mentor to seasonal and junior staff.
  • Takes on greater autonomy in managing assigned responsibilities.

Requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field preferred.
• Rescue diver certification or higher-level SCUBA certification highly desirable.
• Computer skills including MS Outlook, Excel, Word, and database programs.
• Must have valid driver’s license.

Qualifications

• Experience in the care of aquatic animals preferred.
• Open water SCUBA certification or the ability to become certified within 6 months of hire required.
• At least 2 years work experience in the aquarium field required.
• Open water SCUBA certification required.

Skills

• Ability to be self motivated with little to no supervision.
• Ability to be organized, self-motivated, and possess a strong desire to see the completion of projects.
• Ability to pass a pre dive physical.

Benefits

Salary Range: $20.35-$25.03(1), $23.65-$29.15(2) Full Time with Benefits

Please submit a resume, cover letter and letter of recommendation with your application. Must be able to pass a background check.