Aquarist/Biologist II

Position Summary The Aquarist II is responsible for providing the highest possible quality of care to the animals under their assigned care, under the guidance of the aquarium's protocols and operational procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, the set-up, maintenance, and care of quarantine and holding systems, preparing, and dispensing diets, minor water quality duties, and record keeping. The individual explores and stays up to date on the natural history, environmental parameters, and husbandry requirements of the animals under the assigned area of responsibility. The individual assists others and is engaged in seeking further knowledge and experience. Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

• This full-time position will report to our off-site holding / quarantine facility.
• Complete inspection of rounds at least twice daily (AM and PM), assessment of inhabitant behavior and health, LSS component function, reporting any signs of disease or issue immediately to Animal Care management and Veterinarian team.
• Prepare and dispense diets according to the Mississippi Aquarium standards.
• Perform general husbandry functions without direct supervision.
• Maintain detailed records on feeding, maintenance, and other husbandry related tasks.
• Become proficient in our animal data management software Tracks.
• Assist with water quality testing, quarantine, diagnosis, and treatment of fish disease.
• Assist with and participate in animal transport, transfer, and procedures.
• Administer medications as needed under the direction of the veterinary team.
• Provide secondary coverage and other coverage as needed.
• Maintain the highest levels of cleanliness for systems and work areas, including back of house space, at a level that is safe, hazard free, and presentable at all times.
  • Areas should be presentable for any VIP or back-of-house tours.

• Report all non-functioning equipment to the Animal Care management and/or Facility Operations.
• Ensure proper lighting and environmental needs are achieved and maintained for the animals under individual care.
• Collaborate with coworkers and/or colleagues from other institutions in aquarium techniques.
• Present lectures, workshops, VIP tours, public encounters, with some supervision and guidance.
• Assist in maintaining supplies, inventories, and equipment for the area or department.
• Participate in approved research opportunities, such as not to detract from primary responsibilities as outlined.
• Act as a resource and mentor for interns and volunteers.

Critical Skills/Competencies

• Ability to identify signs of illness and stress in a broad variety of taxa.
• Strong identification skills, ability to identify all animals and plants under individual care.
• Excellent observation, written and oral communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ethics that generate and sustain a positive team atmosphere and professional environment.
• Excellent record keeping and computer skills.

 Qualifications

• A college degree (A.A., A.S., B.A., or B.S.) with an emphasis on biology/zoology or related scientific coursework. Equivalent hands-on professional or volunteer experience and knowledge may be considered.

• At least (1) year of experience caring for animals in a public aquarium or zoological facility, or other related experience.
• Possess a valid driver's license and the ability to travel if necessary.
• Successful completion of pre-employment drug screening.
• Valid SCUBA certification and/or the ability to obtain certification within one year from hire date.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule that includes weekends, evenings, and holidays.
• Able to lift a minimum of sixty (60) pounds.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Team Requirements

• Safety & Security - All Team Members are required to adhere to all Mississippi Aquarium safety and security standards.
• Attendance & Appearance - To maximize the guest’s experience, all Team Members are required to adhere to Mississippi Aquarium standard operating procedures regarding attendance and dress code policies as it relates to individual job functionality.
• Sales & Guest Services - Our forward-thinking business model requires listening to and understanding the needs of our guests both internal and external.  To that end, we must always be focused on the guest experience which is the key driver for return guest visitation and increased sales.
• Team Partnership - All Team Members are focused on supporting each other to complete the guest experience.  Therefore, supporting, facilitating, and participating in activities that promote team effectiveness is vital to our organization.

Physical Demands & Work Environment: The physical demands and work environment 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 occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 60 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Note:  Position will involve exposure to inclement weather, dust, potentially dangerous and unpredictable animal species, and potentially dangerous machinery, restraint devices and toxic chemicals and/or drugs.  Occasional use of protective clothing or equipment is required e.g., goggles, mask, gloves, and gowns. 

---