Aquarist (Part-Time)

Tennessee Aquarium • Chattanooga, TN

3d • $16

About The Position

The part-time, entry-level Aquarist position learns how to maintain fish and aquatic invertebrates in closed aquatic systems, gains experience in preventive health care and the identification of disease, develops a basic understanding of exhibit maintenance and development, and learns all areas of the two Aquarium buildings and animal care facility needed for coverage of the aquatic animal areas. Key Responsibilities Learns to maintain assigned exhibits. Feeds and monitors health of animals within area of responsibility. Maintains appropriate records. Learns techniques necessary for specimen collection. Research information to better understand the exhibits and animals within their area of responsibility. Performs work in a manner that fosters the Aquarium’s mission and reflects its core values and service standards. Assists in areas assigned to other aquarists in their absence. Assists in developing new exhibits. When in public spaces, presents a professional appearance and finds opportunities to positively engage with Aquarium guests

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, ichthyology or zoology preferred
• A BS degree in a related field or equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of preferred degree.
• Valid driver’s license
• SCUBA certification (preferred), or the ability to attain certification, within 12 months of hire
• Knowledge of aquatic biology
• Ability to collect specimens
• Ability to administer CPR and First Aid
• Ability to SCUBA dive (preferred)
• Ability to be a team player and communicate positively and effectively with all members of the Aquarium team
• Part-time, hourly ($16/hour); Some weekend and holiday work required.
• All submissions must be received by April 7, 2026.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, ichthyology or zoology preferred
• SCUBA certification (preferred)
• Ability to SCUBA dive (preferred)

Responsibilities

• Learns to maintain assigned exhibits.
• Feeds and monitors health of animals within area of responsibility.
• Maintains appropriate records.
• Learns techniques necessary for specimen collection.
• Research information to better understand the exhibits and animals within their area of responsibility.
• Performs work in a manner that fosters the Aquarium’s mission and reflects its core values and service standards.
• Assists in areas assigned to other aquarists in their absence.
• Assists in developing new exhibits.
• When in public spaces, presents a professional appearance and finds opportunities to positively engage with Aquarium guests

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level