Quarantine Aquarist/Keeper I

Facility

Loveland Living Planet Aquarium

Closing Date

[jobclosingdate]

Description

Position: Quarantine Aquarist/Keeper I-II

Reports to: Curator of Quarantine

Position Summary:

The level I-II aquarist/keeper is responsible for providing the highest possible quality of care to the animals under their assigned care, under the guidance of the aquarium’s protocols and operational procedures. This includes but is not limited to, the set-up, maintenance, and care of exhibits and holding 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 assigned area of responsibility. The individual assists others and is engaged in seeking further knowledge and experience.

Qualifications:

A college degree (A.A., A.S., B.A., or B.S.) with an emphasis on biology/zoology or related scientific coursework
Equivalent hands-on professional or volunteer experience and knowledge may be considered
At least (1) year of experience caring for animals in a public aquarium or zoological facility, or other related experience
Possess a valid driver’s license and obtain a Utah license within six (6) months of hire date

Critical Skills/Competencies:

Ability to identify signs of illness and stress in a broad variety of taxa
Strong identification skills, ability to identify all animals and plants under individual care
Flexibility in completing tasks, which may extend after normal hours, including holidays or weekends
Excellent written and oral communication skills

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Act as a resource and mentor for volunteers
Complete inspection of 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
Provide secondary coverage and other coverage as needed
Perform general husbandry functions without direct supervision
Prepare and dispense diets according to LLPA standard
Maintain the highest levels of cleanliness for systems and work areas, including back of house space, at a level that is safe, 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
Report all non-functioning equipment to the Curator or Director of Husbandry
Ensure proper lighting levels are achieved and maintained for the animals under individual care
Collaborate with coworkers and/or colleagues from other institutions in aquarium techniques
Present lectures, workshops, VIP tours, public encounters, with some supervision and guidance
Assist in maintaining supplies, inventories, and equipment for the area or department
Assist with and participate in animal transport, transfer, and procedures
Participate in approved research opportunities, such as not to detract from primary responsibilities as outlined
Administer medications as needed under the direction of the veterinary team

While this job description attempts to describe the essential functions of the position, it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. It does not restrict management’s right to to assign or reassign duties or responsibilities to this job at any time. The overall work environment while performing this job includes exposure to weather conditions and a moderate noise level. The employee is expected to adhere to all policies and to act as a role model in adherence to the policies.

Education and Pre-requisites

Not specified.

Compensation and benefits