Overview

The National Aquarium is seeking an experienced candidate to fill the position of Aquarist on our Blue Wonders team. This full-time position functions primarily as a jelly aquarist within the Jellies Invasion gallery and Culture Lab. This position also provides support for the Aquarium’s 3 large elasmobranch and teleost exhibits (Atlantic Coral Reef, Shark Alley: Atlantic Predators, and Blacktip Reef). Applicants must be able to work weekends and holidays as scheduled.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide assigned animals with excellent day-to-day care through approved husbandry practices and standards and be accountable for that care.
• Monitor and manage water quality parameters as appropriate for each species.
• Maintain life support systems and related equipment.
• Keep exhibits and holding systems well maintained via hydro-cleaning, water changes, filter backwashing, and related cleaning procedures.
• Manage animal diets, prepare diets, and feed animals.
• SCUBA dive to perform feeds, animal moves/exams, and maintain habitats.
• Administer medical treatments with the guidance of the veterinarians and curatorial team.
• Maintain detailed records on feeding, maintenance, and other husbandry related tasks, and become proficient in our animal data management software – Tracks.
• Keep back-up spaces and work areas well maintained.
• Participate in the acquisition, transport, and acclimation of animals.
• Participate in the design, construction, and maintenance of exhibits and holding systems, including life support, lighting, and habitat.
• Provide coverage and support for other sections as assigned, with longer assignments possible in cases of vacation or leave.
• Conduct presentations and interact professionally with guests.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Marine Science or related field; or completed advanced college-level related coursework; or comparable work experience.
• Knowledge of water chemistry, aquatic husbandry, biology, and marine science, including detailed knowledge of the biology and taxonomy of a variety of marine fish and invertebrates.
• Knowledge of aquarium systems and life support for closed systems.
• At least 1 year of experience working with jellies in a public aquarium or other zoological setting.
• Excellent observational, decision making, problem solving, and reporting skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills, an ability to create positive workplace team partnerships, and a high regard for operating in a professional environment.
• SCUBA certification from a recognized organization.
• Ability to obtain a MD driver’s license, climb ladders, lift and carry 50 lbs., and pass a dive physical examination and a diving skills assessment.
• Availability to work holidays, weekends, and evening hours as needed.
• The National Aquarium is committed to diversity and invites individuals who bring a diversity of culture, experience and ideas to apply.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL AQUARIUM

Recently named one of Baltimore’s Best Places to Work, the National Aquarium opened in 1981 as a nonprofit aquatic education and conservation organization, the jewel of the city’s Inner Harbor redevelopment. SmartCEO Magazine honored the National Aquarium with the Healthiest Workplace award and the Corporate Culture award in 2016. With a mission to inspire conservation of the world’s aquatic treasures, the Aquarium is consistently ranked one of the nation’s two top aquariums and has hosted over 51 million guests since opening.

Today, the National Aquarium builds on a 37 year history of local, regional and global conservation initiatives that provide real solutions for protecting marine life, ecosystems and aquatic communities. Its Animal Rescue team has rescued, rehabilitated and released hundreds of marine mammals and endangered sea turtles throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Its Animal Welfare and Science teams participate in important research efforts to confront pressing ocean conservation issues and advocate for smarter policies at local, state and federal levels. Through education, research, conservation action and advocacy, the National Aquarium is pursuing a vision to change the way humanity cares for our ocean planet.

HOW TO APPLY 

Interested and engaged applicants should apply through our website http://aqua.org/jobs. A CV/resume should be attached in .PDF format along with a cover letter addressing the responsibilities and requirements. Requests for reasonable accommodation can be made by e-mailing HR@aqua.org.