Aquarium Associate

Position Summary:

The Aquarium Associate is responsible for all day-to-day needs and operations of the aquarium under the Director and Manager of the Aquarium. This includes animal care, feeding, cleaning habitats, interacting with visitors and the public, running errands to pick up supplies as needed. This role requires strong knowledge of aquatic and reptile species, and understanding the needs, care, and maintenance of related enclosures to ensure the health and well-being of the animals.

Primary Functions and Major Responsibilities:

The Aquarium Associate will work directly with the Aquarium Manager and Director to ensure daily needs and operations are met working with aquatic and terrestrial life.

Duties include:

· Responsible for the aquarium and reptile mechanical and biological maintenance, husbandry, and interpretation.

· Maintain records of feeding, water changes, water quality, diet, and other relevant conditions.

· Keep all essential aquarium manuals up to date.

· Track inventory. Help stock and organize supplies.

· Act as a spokesperson for the aquarium in a professional manner

· Ensure the aquarium and storage areas are kept in a clean, safe, and orderly manner.

· Observe animals for signs of illness or distress. Report issues to management

· Ensure proper handling and safety protocols for all reptiles, amphibians, and aquatic animals

· All other related duties as assigned by management.

· Answering visitor questions on nutrition, behavior, habitat requirements, and proper care

· Work with Aquarium Manager and Aquarium Director to ensure that the aquarium systems are maintained and coordinated on off days.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree (B. A.) in Biology or related field from a four-year College or university; or three to five years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

General knowledge of aquarium systems including filtration, water quality and lighting.

General knowledge of reptile and amphibian husbandry and biology. Ability to safely handle reptiles and amphibians of varying sizes and temperaments.

Foster effective communication and teamwork in daily operations.

Must be able to lift 50 pounds.

Must have good communication, including texting/calling when needed

General understanding of purchasing and inventory management.

Customer service oriented, being able to answer questions from the public.

Must be able to, and be comfortable with accessing tight spaces (entering animal enclosures, possibly entering aquariums to perform maintenance

Ability to work a flexible schedule as needed including weekends, holidays, and occasional evenings to ensure aquarium is covered daily.

Typical schedule will be Sunday to Thursday or Tuesday to Saturday, to be decided upon hire

Candidate must maintain a current driver’s license, personal automobile insurance, and a safe driving record.

Additional Preferred Qualifications:

· Experience with animal care, water quality testing and analysis, life support system operation

· Knowledge of basic veterinary care procedures

· Bilingual in Spanish and English

· Up to date first aid and CPR certification.

· Experience working with the public.

· Strong communication and attention to detail

Berkshire Museum is an equal opportunity employer.

We believe diversity strengthens our community. We believe that recruiting, supporting and retaining a diverse staff is essential to providing excellent and representative educational experience for our visitors. We support equity through representative hiring practices and welcome applications from members of communities that have historically not been represented in museum positions.

Compensation, Benefits and Perks

This position’s pay range is $40,000 - $52,000 per year; actual salary will reflect level of experience and qualifications relative to position requirements. This position offers health insurance, dental and vision plans, paid time off, employer contribution to 403(b) and life insurance. The position includes access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), museum membership and 11 paid holidays per year (holidays may shift annually due to where days fall within calendar).

How to apply

Please send a resume, cover letter and three professional references to employment@berkshiremuseum.org

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $40,000.00 - $52,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $40,000 - $52,000