Greater Cleveland Aquarium - Aquarist

$35,568 - $35,568/Yr

NAUTICA AQUARIUM LLC - Cleveland, OH

Full-time - Entry Level

Cleveland, OH

About the position

The Aquarist at Greater Cleveland Aquarium is responsible for the husbandry of various aquatic and terrestrial species, ensuring the maintenance of high-quality exhibits and animal care. This role involves conducting routine system checks, administering nutrition, maintaining water quality, and supervising interns. The Aquarist will also engage with guests through educational programs and presentations, contributing to the aquarium's mission of fostering curiosity about aquatic life and the environment.

Responsibilities

• Conduct husbandry for a variety of animals including freshwater and marine species, avian species, reptiles, and amphibians.
• Maintain quality exhibits with routine system checks and cleaning.
• Determine, prepare, and administer appropriate nutrition and enrichment for animals.
• Maintain proper water quality for aquatic exhibits and holding systems.
• Assess animal behavior and health, reporting any abnormalities.
• Keep detailed records of animals and systems.
• Assist with maintaining inventory of supplies necessary for animal care.
• Maintain all back of house areas to ensure safety and cleanliness.
• Assist with quarantine procedures, acquisition, and animal transport.
• Coordinate with veterinarian staff for diagnosis and treatment of animals.
• Conduct routine SCUBA diving in exhibits.
• Supervise, train, and mentor interns.
• Participate in exhibit improvement and design planning.
• Deliver formal and informal interpretation with guests of all ages.

Requirements

• Minimum 2 years professional work experience in a public aquarium/zoo or related facility.
• Degree in Biology, Zoology, Aquarium Sciences, or a related field from an accredited institution or equivalent experience.
• Knowledge of general animal husbandry techniques, including nutrition, breeding, behavior, training, and diseases.
• Basic knowledge of life support equipment and its operation.
• Ability to work varying shifts, weekends, evenings, and holidays.
• Required to fulfill on-call duty for emergencies or situations.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to follow safety precautions and work with potentially hazardous conditions.
• Must have SCUBA certification or the ability to acquire it within an agreed time frame.
• Ability to complete CPR, First Aid, and Oxygen provider certifications.
• Ability to frequently push, pull, lift, and carry supplies up to 65 pounds.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with SCUBA diving in an aquarium setting.
• Familiarity with public education and guest engagement in an aquarium context.

Benefits

• 401(k) matching
• AD&D insurance
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid Sick Leave
• Ongoing learning and development programs
• $200 Referral Bonus