Aquarist I

What you'll bring to the team

🐠 Aquarist – Dive into an Ocean of Opportunity! 🌊Location: SEA LIFE Aquarium Kansas City

Do you have a passion for marine life and a love for creating unforgettable guest experiences? 🐡🐙 We’re looking for an enthusiastic Aquarist to join our dynamic team and help care for an incredible variety of sea creatures—everything from elasmobranchs and invertebrates to reptiles and freshwater fish! 🐢🦈

Qualifications & Experience

🌟 What You’ll Be Doing (Scope of Job):

• Work alongside our Senior Aquarist & Curator to care for a diverse animal collection.

• Help ensure top-tier standards in animal husbandry, exhibit upkeep, life support systems, and guest experiences.

• Monitor public displays and ensure guests are wowed by what they see! 😍

🐾 Your Daily Splash (Main Responsibilities):

• Feed and observe animals while maintaining detailed records 📋

• Assist with water quality testing and exhibit upkeep 💧

• Participate in diving activities for exhibit maintenance and feeding dives 🤿

• Support inventory and mortality tracking

• Assist with nutrition plans and treatment records

• Work weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed

• Jump into other tasks as assigned by the Curator

🛟 Safety First (Health & Safety):

• Follow Merlin’s Group Health, Safety & Security policies 🛡️

• Maintain safe work practices and report any incidents promptly

• Adhere to all Merlin Dive Safety standards

🧠 Your Skills & Experience:

• 1–2 years in a similar aquarist role at an aquarium or zoo

• Experience with marine and freshwater species, including elasmobranchs, reptiles, and inverts

• Familiarity with life support systems (LSS) and fish disease ID 🦠

• Highly organized, adaptable, and detail-oriented

• Able to juggle multiple tasks and work collaboratively

• Understanding of AZA standards is a plus ✅

🎓 Preferred Education:

• B.A./B.S. in Life Sciences (Biology, Marine Biology, Zoology, Psychology)

• OR a two-year aquarium science/zoological certification

🌍 Work Environment & Schedule:

• Work in varied indoor and outdoor environments 🌡️

• SCUBA dive and swim as part of regular duties 🏊‍♂️

• Must be flexible—early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and some overnights required

• 5 days per week, including holidays

💪 Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift 50 lbs, swim, and SCUBA dive for extended periods

• Standing, walking, computer use, visual and verbal communication

• Occasional travel to other Merlin properties

✅ Other Job Must-Haves:

• Open Water SCUBA Certification required 🤿

• Willingness to adapt to a dynamic and fast-paced environment

🎉 If you're passionate about marine life and ready to create magical experiences for our guests and animals alike, we want to hear from you! Come join our fin-tastic team at SEA LIFE and help us bring the ocean to life for everyone! 🌊🐠🌟

Benefits

🎉 Benefits of Joining Merlin Entertainments! 🎉

🏥 Excellent Health Care Options: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.🌴 Outstanding Paid Time Off (PTO): Enjoy well-deserved breaks to recharge!🎢 Merlin Magic Pass: Free entry for friends and family to our amazing parks & attractions. 🎡🏆 Recognition Programs and Rewards: Celebrate your achievements and hard work!💼 401(k) Program: Save for the future with company matching contributions.📚 Tuition Reimbursement Programs: Get support for further education and career growth.🚀 Numerous Learning and Advancement Opportunities: Grow your skills and advance your career with us!Ready to be a part of the magic? Apply today and start your adventure with Merlin Entertainments! 🌟✨

Pay Range

Salary : $17