Biologist 2 (Aquarist)

Florida Aquarium•Tampa, FL

11h•Onsite

About The Position

The Biologist 2 is responsible for all aspects of husbandry for the area(s) to which they are assigned. This position is expected to play a primary role in caring for and managing The Florida Aquarium’s fish and invertebrate collections. This includes the care and maintenance of live exhibits, disease recognition and treatment, life support system construction and operation, species identification and knowledge. They are expected to operate with minimal supervision and serve as a mentor to their coworkers, specifically regarding management and care of The Florida Aquarium’s aquatic collection.

Requirements

Minimum of 4 years’ experience in a facility working with aquatic and terrestrial organisms, including but not limited to birds, reptiles, amphibians, mammals, fishes, and plants
Four-year degree in biology or related field; equivalent professional experience may be considered
Knowledge of habitat requirements, including life support systems and water quality parameters for aquatic and terrestrial species
Knowledge of Windows and Microsoft Office software (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook)
SCUBA certification required
Must be willing and able to obtain a valid State of Florida Driver’s License
Flexibility in working weekends, evenings, and holidays

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of animal record keeping systems (Tracks) preferred

Responsibilities

Performs general daily husbandry functions including the maintenance of live exhibits, holding systems and quarantine facilities at a high level of quality and does so with minimal supervision
Routinely demonstrate expertise in universally accepted aquarium husbandry skill areas including: Marine organism collecting, handling, transport, acclimation and care; Animal quarantine, clinical treatments and marine animal health; Aquarium Life Support Systems (LSS) design, construction, operation and maintenance; Live exhibit aesthetic design, construction and maintenance
Serves as a resource and mentor for Biologists, Interns and Volunteers in the development of job skills relating to general husbandry functions, exhibit and life support systems design, construction and maintenance, aquatic organism (marine & freshwater fishes, invertebrates and plants) disease recognition and treatment, collecting techniques and species identification
Ensures accurate animal record keeping through consistent utilization of electronic record keeping systems
Assure behavior meets the TFA values of Respect, Trust and Excellence and counsel staff to do the same
Interacts with aquarium guests, donors and team members in a positive and professional manner.
Maintain AZA inspection readiness for exhibit, service, holding, and backup areas
Initiates and executes exhibit improvements and modifications independently
Initiates and executes behavior shaping plans for aquatic and terrestrial animals with proficiency
Identifies and solves obstacles with projects and tasks in a team setting
Conducts complex work processes without supervision
Supports TFA's Shared Purpose by participating in a Conservation Day of Action shift on an annual basis
Maintains tools and equipment necessary for the care of the collection
Assists in maintaining husbandry SOPs
Works with volunteers and interns within scope of position
Participates in meetings with curators, biologists and other aquarium departments
Represents the aquarium at selected professional development opportunities
Initiates and executes presentations and reports independently