Aquarist

About the role

The Role Aquarist at Liberty Science Center are responsible for the ongoing care and exhibition of the live animal population. They must implement professional husbandry protocols in regards to animal care and exhibit maintenance. They provide all aspects of daily care for the animals, including feeding, maintenance of enclosures and associated life support, enrichment, and health maintenance and treatment.

Responsibilities

• Provide and oversee care of the aquatic animal population, totaling 20,000 gallons, with individual aquaria as large as 7,000 gallons
• Perform daily cleaning, diet preparation, feedings, enrichment, training & observations of animals, and maintenance of exhibits and life support systems
• Aid in the ongoing care for the remainder of the live animal population, including invertebrates, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals
• Maintain an intimate knowledge of animal health, exhibits, life support system operation, inventory, animal transport, quarantine procedures, species id and compatibility, disease recognition and animal ambassador protocols consistent with the highest standards of animal welfare
• Implement high quality standards for exhibits and back of house spaces, maintaining clean, well-organized, and hazard free work areas
• Input and maintain accurate records of daily observations and animal care data into databases
• Repair and maintenance of life support equipment, including pumps, UV sterilizers, protein skimmers, sand filters, plumbing, etc.
• Participate in programs and public activities as directed
• Perform lab work, such as regular water quality testing and necropsy as needed
• Assist in the planning and operation of specimen collection trips
• Collaborate on ideating, developing and producing creative solutions that serve to strengthen LSC’s brand, mission, and revenue
• Train, supervise, and evaluate interns and volunteers

Qualifications

• You have a strong interest in animals of all kinds, ecology, and informal education
• You have the ability and disposition to handle the demands of caring for live animals in a highly public-facing environment and can demonstrate a strong knowledge of husbandry practices
• You are detail-oriented, a team player, and a skilled observer who excels at both written and oral communication
• You take pride in your work, maintaining high standards of care and providing a rich guest experience through the display and maintenance of live animal exhibits
• You are proactive, exercise sound judgment, and respond quickly in emergency situations with appropriate action
• You are comfortable working with a wide range of invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, fishes, birds, and mammals

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

• Candidates should have thorough knowledge of animal husbandry practices, keeper safety, and exhibit and life support system maintenance
• Familiarity with aquarium systems including life support systems, aquatic animal husbandry, maintenance needs, and quarantine protocols
• Knowledge of water chemistry, biological processes, and water quality analysis
• Knowledge of animal care, common health concerns, and treatment
• Must be able to work effectively in a team-oriented workplace, as well as engage with the general public
• Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to set priorities
• Plumbing experience

Special Job-Related Requirements

• SCUBA certification
• Final offer contingent upon the successful outcome of a TB screening

Physical Demands

• Significant physical effort on a daily basis such as walking, bending, stooping, climbing ladders, reaching above the head, repetitive motions, lifting and carrying heavy objects (up to 60 pounds), or standing for long periods
• The ability to effectively perform dive procedures in LSC’s aquaria
• The ability to withstand exposure to nuts, legumes, and high levels of noises and crowds
• The ability to work in wet or humid environments, from heights, or in confined spaces
• The ability to use and handle hooks, tongs, nets, and other animal handling equipment
• The ability to work in an environment with potential exposure to zoonoses
• The ability to operate standard office equipment, such as a computer, printer, and phone
• The ability to carry and operate a two-way radio

LSC’s Work Culture

LSC prides itself on fostering a culture that enables all employees to experience a sense of pleasure, passion, and purpose while in the workplace. We believe in embracing and driving change, inspiring fun and learning, and creating a positive and family friendly team spirit. Our differences as individuals (race, gender, age, cultural heritage, physical ability, education and lifestyle) are an asset and contribute to our ability to drive innovation. Lastly, at the heart of our work culture is the commitment to delivering a “wow factor” through our exceptional customer service to not only our guests but also one another.

Travel

This position requires occasional travel.