Experienced Aquarist

• Experienced Aquarist

The Reptarium / LegaSea Aquarium

Utica, Michigan

Job Description:

Legasea Aquarium is seeking an experienced individual to join our growing team. The ideal candidate would possess experience in a public aquarium or as a hobbyist.

The aquarist is responsible for overseeing a diverse aquatic animal collection. This includes elasmobranchs, fresh and saltwater fish, cephalopods, corals, and other various invertebrates.

This position is responsible for the care and maintenance of the animals and exhibits in the aquarium as assigned by the supervisor.

Aquarist Team Member – Responsibilities

• Daily Animal Care: Perform routine husbandry for marine and freshwater species, including feeding, monitoring behavior, cleaning habitats, and recording observations.
• Exhibit Maintenance: Maintain the cleanliness, aesthetics, and functionality of aquatic exhibits to ensure optimal viewing experiences and animal welfare.
• Life Support System Monitoring: Assist in the monitoring and basic maintenance of life support systems (LSS), including filtration, pumps, lighting, and temperature controls.
• Water Quality Management: Conduct water testing (e.g., pH, salinity, ammonia, nitrates) and make basic adjustments as needed to maintain stable and healthy aquatic environments.
• Animal Health Observation: Observe and document animal behavior, appetite, and appearance. Report any health or behavioral concerns to supervisors or veterinary staff promptly.
• Enrichment & Welfare: Assist in the development and delivery of enrichment activities that promote natural behaviors and well-being for aquatic species.
• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate logs of feedings, behaviors, water quality, maintenance activities, and treatments in accordance with facility protocols.
• Quarantine & Acclimation Support: Support the quarantine and acclimation process for new or transferred animals, following established protocols.
• Guest Engagement: Provide educational information and answer visitor questions about aquatic life and exhibits as needed. Support interactive guest experiences when assigned.
• Safety Compliance: Follow all safety procedures related to animal care, water systems, chemical handling, and exhibit access. Report safety hazards or concerns immediately.
• Team Collaboration: Work closely with other aquarists, supervisors, veterinarians, educators, and maintenance staff to ensure high-quality care and operations.
• Exhibit Setups & Renovations: Assist in setting up, modifying, or dismantling aquatic exhibits and displays under supervision or direction of senior staff.
• Inventory Management: Monitor supplies related to feed, chemicals, tools, and enrichment; report shortages to supervisors in a timely manner.

*Note: The company does not guarantee that this list includes all the responsibilities for this position and the company has the right to change, alter or add responsibilities to any and all positions at any time.

Qualifications

• At least one year experience in a public aquarium setting or as a hobbyist
• This position may call for special scheduling or overtime needs throughout the week, sometimes without much advance notice. Must be able to work weekends and holidays as needed.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Ability to give and follow directions effectively.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand, stoop, walk on unstable surfaces, and climb ladders.

Pay: From $15.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Required)
• Night Shift (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Utica, MI 48317 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Utica, MI 48317: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $15