Position Overview

Application Deadline: April 9, 2026

Salary: $25.77 – $29.33 Hourly

Education Required: Bachelor’s degree in Biology or related field

Experience Required: At least one year in animal husbandry

Description

Monterey Bay Aquarium advances ocean conservation through education, research, and public engagement, maintaining world-class exhibits and animal care standards. The organisation emphasizes inclusive collaboration and scientific excellence in marine stewardship.

This position supports the care and management of benthic marine species and exhibits, ensuring high standards of animal welfare, water quality, and exhibit maintenance. The role involves hands-on husbandry, field collection, and collaboration with a multidisciplinary team to maintain dynamic marine ecosystems.

Responsibilities

• Perform daily animal husbandry duties including feeding, diet preparation, and exhibit maintenance
• Observe and assess animal health, behavior, and welfare
• Monitor and analyze water quality across exhibit and holding systems
• Adjust husbandry protocols to maintain optimal environmental conditions
• Document animal care, health records, and observations in database systems
• Conduct exhibit maintenance through SCUBA diving
• Collect plants and animals in the field using tidepooling, plankton tows, diving, and boat operations
• Manage plant and animal populations within assigned exhibits
• Inspect and maintain water systems and mechanical equipment
• Assist in design and construction of exhibits and life support systems
• Oversee volunteers, interns, and junior staff

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field or equivalent experience
• Minimum one year of animal husbandry experience
• Knowledge of marine species taxonomy including fish and invertebrates
• Understanding of aquarium nutrition, feeding techniques, and water chemistry
• Knowledge of life support systems and filtration components
• Understanding of aquatic animal health and disease management
• Ability to handle chemicals safely and perform precise measurements
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office or similar tools
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
• Ability to perform physical tasks including lifting up to 50 pounds and fieldwork

Preferred Qualifications

• SCUBA certification and ability to pass occupational dive physical
• Experience with Tracks animal database system
• Experience using hand and power tools
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Additional Notes

• Full-time, on-site position in Monterey, California
• Includes fieldwork in coastal and open ocean environments
• Requires physical activity including lifting, diving, and outdoor work
• Equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion

How to Apply

Submit an application through the employer’s application portal.