Facility
Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation
Closing Date
[jobclosingdate]
Description
Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation is seeking an experienced Aquarist to manage two large freshwater aquariums, and invertebrate, amphibian and reptile exhibits at four separate Nature Centers. This individual will be responsible for the appearance and maintenance of all assigned exhibits and support areas, provide proper husbandry for the specimen collection, and assist in supervising staff and volunteers. A successful candidate will assist in contributing to specimen acquisition for assigned exhibits, creating new exhibits, and performing other related duties including an expectation to be able to conduct presentations and interact with visitors.
Applicants must be able to have a flexible schedule as the animal’s demand. The candidate will be able to work weekends and be “on call” 24 hours per day.
• Provide exceptional care and be accountable for all assigned animals and exhibits including daily cleaning, water quality assessment and maintenance, diet preparation, feeding, and health assessments;
• Maintain public display exhibits and back-of-house areas to the highest quality standards;
• Using tools, repairing exhibits and aquarium life support systems, constructing new exhibits, maintenance of aquarium filtration equipment.
• Participate in the acquisition, transport, and acclimation of specimens;
• Maintain current up to date knowledge on biology, ecology and husbandry of all animals within their care;
• Participate in the development and implementation of husbandry procedures, techniques and practices, including training of staff in such protocols;
• Determine and make budgetary recommendations as to annual animal care budget for equipment, maintenance and diets;
• Maintain appropriate written and computerized animal care records;
• Mentor departmental staff, volunteers or interns;
• Ensure all husbandry areas are kept clean, organized and hazard free;
• Participate in related education, Public Relations and membership programs including facility tours.
• Respond to emergency calls;
• Assist with design, fabrication and install of new animal enclosures and exhibits
Education and Pre-requisites
Bachelor’s degree in biology or related science
Two (2) years’ experience with fish and invertebrates with strong background in reptiles and amphibian husbandry, preferably in an AZA accredited aquarium or zoo setting. Experience working in an aquarium or zoo setting preferred.
Knowledge of aquarium LSS, plumbing, and water chemistry as it relates to maintaining a freshwater aquatic habitat, and water quality analysis.
Must be flexible, able to follow instructions and protocols, and possess a positive attitude.
Must have good observation skills and be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
Must be able to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull, bend, climb stairs and ladders and carry up to 65lbs.
Must be able to work holidays and weekends.
North Carolina or South Carolina Driver’s License. Must be able to obtain and maintain a County Operator’s Permit.
Compensation and benefits
Mecklenburg County offers a generous benefits package:
Medical, Dental, Vision and Pharmacy; Flexible Spending (FSA) and Health; Savings Account (HSA); Pet Insurance; Accident, Critical Care, Cancer, and
Medical Bridge Insurance; Holidays and Vacation Days; 401(k) and 457 Plans; NC Retirement System – Pension Benefit; Employee Discount Program
Hiring salary ranges from $39,123 to $48,904
Application instructions
Apply online at https://www.mecknc.gov/HR/Pages/talent-acquisition.aspx