AquaTropic Husbandry

Freshwater Aquarist II

The Freshwater Aquarist II is responsible for the daily health management and care of all freshwater livestock within the facility. The primary focus of this position is to promote and maintain the health of freshwater livestock through the early identification and treatment of disease, consistent feeding practices, and the prompt removal of sick or deceased fish. Success in this role requires close observation of animal behavior and proactive intervention to maintain the overall health. This position also supports general husbandry operations, including water quality monitoring, tank maintenance, inventory management, and livestock handling.

Primary Responsibilities & Duties

• Monitor freshwater livestock daily for signs of disease, stress, injury, or abnormal behavior. 
• Diagnose common freshwater fish diseases and administer appropriate treatments. 
• Monitor treated tanks and maintain treatment protocols to ensure their effectiveness. 
• Prepare and distribute daily feeds while monitoring fish appetite and overall condition. 
• Promptly remove deceased fish from holding systems and accurately record mortalities. 
• Identify fish that require isolation or treatment and flag for treatment.
• Maintain clean and organized treatment and holding systems. 
• Perform routine water quality testing and accurately record results. 
• Move livestock as necessary to support inventory management and animal health. 
• Identify recovered fish suitable for return to inventory. 
• Clean tanks, filtration equipment, and work areas to maintain a healthy environment. 

Secondary Responsibilities & Duties

• Receive, acclimate, and properly place incoming freshwater livestock. 
• Assist with inventory counts and inventory adjustments. 
• Participate in annual physical inventory. 
• Cross-train and assist other departments, including freshwater husbandry, marine husbandry, acclimation, packing, picking, and facility maintenance, as needed. 
• Perform other duties as assigned. 

Qualifications

• Experience maintaining freshwater aquariums or working with freshwater ornamental fish. 
• Strong understanding of freshwater fish diseases, diagnosis, and treatment methods. 
• Ability to recognize subtle changes in fish behavior and health. 
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. 
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment. 
• Good verbal and written communication skills. 
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office. 
• Weekend, holiday, and variable schedule availability required. 

Physical Requirements

• Stand and walk for extended periods (up to 8 hours per day). 
• Frequently lift and carry up to 60 pounds. 
• Work in wet environments and around aquaculture systems.