Seasonal Aquarist 1

Summary:

This position provides basic support to the Aquarium division for daily husbandry and related duties for aquatic fishes, invertebrates, and plants; and their exhibit and holding aquariums under the direct supervision of the Aquarium Curator at the Alaska SeaLife Center.

Education/Training Requirements:

A Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field required. Experience in the care of aquatic animals preferred. Computer skills including email, Excel, Word, and database programs. Open water SCUBA certification or the ability to become certified within six months of hire required.

Essential Duties:

• Under the guidance of the Aquarium Curator, assists in the care, exhibition, and study of the aquarium collection of invertebrates, fishes, and plants.
• Assists in the daily animal diet preparations, water quality testing, and routine cleaning of animal exhibits, holding pools, food preparation facilities, and aquarium work areas.
• Assists in exhibit preparation, including exhibit changes and improvements, and modifications including lighting, habitat, and plumbing as needed, lifting and moving up to 50 lbs. as needed.
• Maintains aquatic habitat cleanliness and preparation for visitors.
• Learns and assists in health and care of the aquatic animals, including health observation and intervention for treatment. Learns and applies proper disease recognition, diagnosis, and treatments.
• Learns to maintain and operate aquarium life support systems.
• Under guidance of the Aquarium Curator, monitors water quality of aquarium systems.
• Keeps proper records in accordance with ASLC and permit requirements.
• May participate in field collection and transport of specimens for exhibits, while handling objects, tools, and controls.
• Participates in presentations to visitors and the public on topics in marine science and ASLC operations.
• May assist and work with senior staff and the Curator on various department goals and programs including research, education, and conservation.
• Ability and willingness to acquire and/or maintain active SCUBA diver status to dive in cold water environments to support ASLC dive operations.
• Fosters good relations with visitors, volunteers, community leaders, contractors, and fellow staff members by promoting a positive attitude, good will, cooperation, and providing high standards of service.
• Complies with all Alaska SeaLife Center policies, procedures, and programs.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Other Skills and Abilities:

Ability to be organized, self-motivated, and possess a strong desire to see the completion of projects.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Ability to see and hear; swim and dive; move about; stoop, kneel, and crouch; use arms and hands; handle objects, tools, and controls; and sit. Ability to lift and move 50 pounds. Ability to pass a pre dive physical.

Open Until Filled

Start: May 1st, 2026

End: August 30th, 2026

Pay: $20.35/hour

Please submit a resume, cover letter and letter of recommendation with your application.

Must be able to pass a background check.