Aquarist 1 - Environmental Quality

The Environmental Quality Aquarist provides the highest standard of animal care and prioritizes the welfare of the animals in our collection. The responsibilities of this position include maintenance of all assigned exhibits and support areas, providing proper husbandry for the animal collection, and monitoring, recording, and reporting environmental parameters in accordance and compliance with institutional, federal, state, and local regulations and policies. The Environment Quality Aquarist will also have a foundational knowledge of aquarium water chemistry and knowledge of aquarium life support systems.

This is a full-time regular position offering a comprehensive benefits package. The schedule will be Friday - Tuesday from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm. Work must be conducted onsite. Availability to work typical weekend days, as well as occasional holidays, nights, and respond to emergencies at all hours is required.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Provides daily care of assigned exhibits, holding systems, support spaces, and life support systems according to the standards set forth by NEAQ as well as AZA.
2. Makes daily observations of animals for health assessment according to established norms of animal's behavior and appearance. Helps to establish appropriate dietary regime, administers medications and supplements as directed.
3. Maintains written and electronic records and submits entries via NEAQ's specimen database system TRACKS©.
4. In conjunction with the Environmental Quality Department and under the direction of the Area Manager, monitors environmental quality of exhibits, holding tanks, life support systems, and makeup water using chemical, electronic, microbiological and electrochemical methods in compliance with Aquarium, local, state, and federal policies and regulations. Monitors discharge water in compliance with DEP/EPA regulations.
5. Records and analyzes data on environmental quality and distributes to appropriate Animal Care and Campus Operations staff.
6. Organizes, trains, and supervises volunteers to monitor water quality.
7. Implements, monitors, and maintains aquatic life support system technologies and water-borne pharmaceutical treatments in conjunction with Animal Care and Campus Operations staff.
8. Assists with corrective measures for environmental quality problems in conjunction with appropriate Animal Care and Campus Operations staff.
9. Maintains inventory of environmental testing supplies and additives in conjunction with Environmental Quality and Animal Health Departments.
10. Provides alternate coverage for other aquarists and is available for cross-training as assigned.
11. Serves as a resource for Assistant Aquarists, volunteers, interns, and co-ops.
12. Performs other job-related tasks, as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Training and Experience

• Bachelor's degree with a concentration in science preferred.
• 6 months of animal husbandry or related experience is required.
• Experience with life support systems and analytical chemistry equipment.
• Internationally recognized SCUBA diving certification preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Valid Driver's License, good driving record, and the willingness to drive a 24' box truck preferred.
• Ability to obtain Medical Examiner's Certificate in accordance with Motor Carrier Safety Regulation (49 CFR 391.41-391.49) to drive the box truck, preferred.
• Familiarity with analytical chemistry techniques, including spectrophotometry, preferred.
• Demonstrates ability to work independently as well as collaboratively.
• Demonstrates broad knowledge of the Aquarium field, including animal husbandry techniques and exhibit design.
• Demonstrates good judgment, organization and problem-solving skills.
• Basic computer skills including Microsoft Excel and Word applications.

For more information and to apply online please visit: http://neaq.applicantpro.com/jobs/

The New England Aquarium is committed to an inclusive workplace culture and is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, as defined by the EEOC. Here, we foster a culture of respect and inclusion. We strive to engage and inspire a broad audience with our efforts to protect the blue planet. We believe that an inclusive workforce provides diverse experiences, skills, and perspectives that enrich our programs, strengthen problem-solving, add creativity, and enhance our workplace culture.