Aquarist l

DISCOVERY WORLD LTD•Milwaukee, WI

1d•$17 - $19•Onsite

About The Position

Facilitate the day-to-day operations of the Reiman Aquarium within Discovery World Science + Technology Center. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Other minor duties may be assigned.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in a Marine or Freshwater science related field, such as Biology, Ecology, Zoology, etc.
Minimum of one year, paid or unpaid, work experience in an Aquarium and/or Zoo setting
Open Water SCUBA Certification
Valid Driver’s License
Some knowledge of basic hand tools and plumbing with PVC Life Support Operations and the ability to perform maintenance on the following: Bead and sand filters, smaller filtration systems
Ozone in relation to life support and water quality
Protein skimmers
Pumps and plumbing
Water quality and the ability to perform the following: Knowledge of the Nitrogen Cycle as it relates to Aquaria
Basic testing knowledge of Ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate, Chlorine, dissolved oxygen, pH, and other water quality standards and testing
Experience with Terrariums and Aquariums and working with fish, elasmobranchs, aquatic invertebrates, reptiles, amphibians, crustaceans, and freshwater plants

Nice To Haves

Advanced and Rescue SCUBA Diver Certification
Current CPR/First Aid/AED Training
DAN Emergency Oxygen Provider Certification
Bilingual
Coral propagation and care
Aquaculture and fish fry rearing/Cold-water Moon Jellyfish aquaculture
Live insect culture breeding and care experience

Responsibilities

Work with an assortment of fish, elasmobranchs, aquatic invertebrates, reptiles, amphibians, crustaceans, and freshwater plants
Prepare diets for the animals and perform routine feedings
Ensure optimal care for Aquarium or Terrarium animals and plants by testing water quality, performing water changes/changing out substrates, making saltwater as needed, and monitoring temperature and humidity levels
Monitor and maintain multiple exhibits and their life support systems; conduct backwashes, water changes, protein skimmer and pump maintenance
Help design exhibits and help select animals for the Aquarium. Assist with acquisition and transport as needed
Assist with aquaculture, quarantine, and treatment procedures as directed by the Curator and the Quarantine Specialist - Aquarist 3
Dive for routine maintenance in warm and cold-water temperatures using equipment provided by Discovery World
Work individually but also collaborate and coordinate with coworkers and Curator to complete shared responsibilities such as daily opening and closing checklists, monthly/weekly checklists, and any other team projects
Perform biopsies, necropsies and administer medication under supervision of the Curator, Quarantine Specialist - Aquarist 3, or the Veterinarian, as needed
Fill out appropriate checklists and logs for animal acquisition, health, relocation, mortality, and routine maintenance
Acquire knowledge continuously of all animals, life support, and husbandry tasks in the Aquarium and continually update assigned exhibits’ Standard Operating Procedures as needed
Keep back of house and Aquarium work areas clean and organized
Work in partnership with the Guest Services Team, Education Department, Maintenance Shop, Public Relations Team, and other Discovery World Departments to ensure an excellent visitor experience
Participate in public speaking programming, work with children, and perform tours, theatre shows, teach classes, and other educational opportunities
Mentor new Interns and Volunteers on day-to-day operations
Participate in weekly Aquarium, and monthly All-Staff meetings
Ability to open, close, and run the day-to-day operations of the Aquarium alone, in the absence of the Curator and other Aquarists, when necessary
Ability to network within the Aquarium, Zoo, and/or other science and technology industries
Be able to spontaneously adapt and be flexible as every day is different
Perform all other duties as assigned