Assistant Aquarist (Part Time)

SUMMARY:

Assists with the appearance and maintenance of all assigned exhibits, support areas and equipment, in providing proper husbandry for the animal collection and the creation and installation of new exhibits and holding systems.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• As directed, provides daily care of assigned exhibits, holding areas and life support systems according to established standards set forth by the Biological Programs Division.
• Makes daily observations of animals for health assessment according to established norms of animals’ behavior and appearance. Reports suspected incidences of disease and/or changes in health to appropriate staff member(s). Administers medications and supplements as directed.
• Maintains written and electronic records and submits entries via the Biological Programs Division’s specimen database system TRACKS. Typical entries include accessions, dispositions, moves, behaviors, mortalities and LSS maintenance in accordance with proper husbandry practices and institutional policy.
• Under the direction of work-shift supervisor, assists in managing water quality and environmental parameters in assigned exhibits and holding tanks.
• Assists with developing and executing strategies to effectively meet the behavioral needs of assigned animals including enrichment and operant conditioning.
• Provides alternate coverage for other Aquarists and is available for cross-training, as assigned.
• Assists with the coordination of volunteer staff.
• Depending on assignment, may be routinely expected to engage with the public through in person and virtual presentations.
• Depending on assignment, may be routinely expected to engage in collection activities.
• Other duties as assigned or required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of aquatic animal husbandry techniques, aquatic life support operations.
• Knowledge of closed system aquarium operation with mixed taxa.
• Knowledge of species native to South Florida preferred.
• Knowledge of marine conservation issues of South Florida preferred.
• Knowledge of aquatic, biology, and basic chemistry concepts and be able to apply to an aquarium setting.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively.

• Ability to learn quickly
• Demonstrates strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Sets a good example for volunteers and interns.
• May be required to work weekend days and holidays.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• 3 months of animal husbandry experience or related experience.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to handle or feel; and talk and hear. The employee is required to stand and walk for prolonged periods of time, along with climbing and reaching with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Must be able to work in high and low places.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those as employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Work is performed both indoors and in outdoor settings. Outdoor work subject to temperatures up to 100 degrees, rain, humidity and sun.

CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Background clearance
• Drug screening as part of the Drug Free Workplace Programs