Newport Aquarium Aquarist Biologist 1

SUMMARY:

If you are passionate about animal health, education, and/or conservation this could be the perfect position for you! As an Aquatic Biologist 1, you will advance your entry-level work and grow your expertise with marine life and their health. You will have the unique mixed experience of managing the husbandry and veterinary-supervised care of our collection of marine life. Additionally, you may have the opportunity to assist with veterinary procedures and provide animal nutritional upkeep through our commissary.

This position requires a highly motivated individual who will work in a team setting, take a proactive role in the medical care of our collection, take direction from their manager(s) in carrying out the daily animal care responsibilities for your area, and assist others in daily care of our total collection in all areas. The position is responsible for adhering to all aquarium safety protocols, standard operating procedures (SOPs) and Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accreditation standards.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provides care for all specimens in assigned area through proper husbandry protocols involving daily observations, feedings, water quality monitoring, and life support system (LSS) operations
• Ensures guest satisfaction by maintaining exhibits through daily maintenance
• Maintain all exhibit, quarantine/holding systems, and behind the scenes areas to the highest level of professional standards.
• Complies with all SOPs pertaining to daily operations and safety
• Maintains records in accordance with protocols or as directed
• Provides coverage of other biologists and areas as assigned
• Cross-trains with other staff within the department
• Promotes conservation, animal welfare, and good stewardship in daily tasks
• Seeks opportunity for professional development
• Identifies problems and notifies management
• Understands LSS theory, operations, and maintenance
• Exhibits Core Values daily
• Undertakes any other tasks as directed by the General Curator.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A four-year degree in aquatic sciences, biology, or related field
• Husbandry experience from employment or internships/volunteering at a public aquarium, aquaculture facility, or zoo Demonstrated advanced hobbyist experience is acceptable
• Strong interpersonal skills and ethics that generate and sustain a positive team atmosphere and professional environment
• A valid driver's license with a good driving record and the ability to travel if necessary
• Certification from a recognized S.C.U.B.A. training organization or ability to obtain certification within one year of hire date
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings, weekends and holidays. Ability to respond to emergencies when needed

REQUIREMENTS:

• Successful completion of pre-employment drug screening, SCUBA dive physical, driver's license and background screening
• In good health and capable of performing strenuous and/or heavy physical labor, including the ability to lift up to 25 pounds
• No history of allergy related to animals or plants, which might interfere with ability to work
• Ability to remain on feet for long periods of time, climb stairs & ladders, bend, stoop, kneel, stretch, reach, push, and pull
• No impairment of sight, smell, hearing, touch, balance and agility of movement which might interfere with ability to work
• Immunocompetence (possible exposure to infections and parasitic disease)

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.

What you'll get:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vison insurances
• 40 sick hours, 40 personal hours, 8 Holidays, and 80 Vacation Hours annually
• Profit Sharing and 401K Plan with company match
• Free entrance for you and your dependents which extends to most Herschend Enterprises' properties
• Earn 1 General Admission complimentary ticket, that you can give to anyone, per pay period
• Discounts at Sharky's Cafe, Sweet Dreams Candy Company, and the gift shop
• Discounted tickets and annual passes for friends and family
• Training and development opportunities

You can expect to work on projects that have never been done before - ideas that are unproven, and concepts that make people smile. You can expect to have fun and be treated with respect the minute you start...and through to the end. You can expect to work in an environment that is highly innovative and low in politics - truthful and filled with smart people; all while providing the BEST GUEST EXPERIENCE IN THE NATION!

And most of all, you can expect to work hard and make a difference in our world by helping to bring families closer together.

Looking to pursue your education without debt? Grow U has hundreds of programs available from certifications to college prep to associates, bachelor's, and master's degrees. Most of these programs are fully funded. Learn more at: https://www.newportaquarium.com/Careers/Benefits/GrowU

Newport Aquarium, one of the many properties owned by Herschend Enterprises, prides itself on creating memories worth repeating. Our Core Values - greatly exceeding guest expectations, serving others, creating emotional connections, and constantly improving - give us purpose and guidance.

Team Player - Works well as a member of a group
Detail Oriented - Capable of carrying out a given task with all details necessary to get the task done well

Growth Opportunities - Inspired to perform well by the chance to take on more responsibility
Goal Completion - Inspired to perform well by the completion of tasks
Ability to Make an Impact - Inspired to perform well by the ability to contribute to the success of a project or the organization

Bachelors of Biology (required)

Skills