Aquarist I

Via Aquarium is looking for an Aquarist among its Bio Team.

Position Summary:

Cares for fish and other animals in VIA Aquarium, maintains health and appearance of animals, maintains support areas including water testing lab and life support systems, teaches public programs on aquarium operations and fish biology, and may work in animal care outside VIA Aquarium building as needed. This position reports to the Animal Care Manager.

Responsibilities:

· Maintains health and appearance of all animals within VIA Aquarium including but may not limited to fish, amphibians, and reptiles; some species may be poisonous or venomous. This includes (but not limited to) making and preparing diets, feeding, cleaning, observation, enrichment, and animal training using operant conditioning and positive reinforcement.

· Maintains exhibit appearance by working independently, as well as with other animal care staff. May work in Guest Engagement areas (such as Touch Tanks) as needed.

· Basic maintenance and troubleshooting of life support systems (LSS)

· Maintains daily records including (but not limited to) inventory, animal health, and water quality data. · Educates and informs individual guests and groups which may include answering questions, giving behind-the-scenes tours, teaching workshops, supervising interns, volunteers, and students

· Proper collection of water samples and basic analyzation for dissolved gases, nutrients, heavy metals, pH, and salinity to assure adequate water quality for animal health

· Researches data to properly understand and maintain the animals within area of responsibility

· Participates in exhibit improvement, design and other planning.

· Carries out other duties as assigned by Bio Manager, Lab Manager, LSS Manager, or General Manager

Education/Experience:

Minimum requirement: Associate's degree in Zoo Animal Technology or equivalent accepted education and one year of professional experience in a public aquarium, zoo or related facility using closed life support systems.

Preferred: Bachelor's degree in biology, ichthyology, marine science, zoology, or related natural science field.

Skills/Abilities:

· Must have SCUBA certification within three months employment. SCUBA certification prior to employment is preferred.

· Knowledge of aquatic animal husbandry to include disease and parasite control, animal nutrition, animal breeding, animal behavior and animal training.

· Understanding of biology, ecology, physics, and chemistry principles.

· Basic knowledge of electricity, plumbing and mechanical aspects of aquarium life support systems is preferred.

· Ability to work effectively with co-workers and aquarium visitors.

· Ability to follow detailed written or oral instructions.

· Ability to perform the manual work required including lifting/carrying at least 50 pounds, climbing, crawling and jumping.

· Must be willing to work weekend and holidays

· Must be knowledgeable about safety precautions and be willing to work with normal hazards associated with an animal care facility (for example: disinfectant chemicals, potential zoonotic diseases, being wet).

· Additional skills and abilities preferred: experience in animal restraint and handling, use of operant conditioning techniques, use of hand and gardening tools, power tools, forklift, personal computer, microscope, first aid equipment.

Other Requirements:

· Valid driver's license

· Background check

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $16.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift

License/Certification:

• scuba diving certification (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• Schenectady, NY 12306: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $16