Coral Laboratory Aquarist I

Mississippi Aquarium•Gulfport, MS

19d•$15•Onsite

About The Position

The Coral Laboratory Aquarist is responsible for providing the highest possible quality of care to the animals under their assigned care, under the guidance of the Vice President of Veterinary Services and Research and the Coral Laboratory Supervisor. This individual provides assigned specimens with excellent day-to-day care through approved husbandry practices; keep systems/enclosures, support equipment, and workspaces well maintained to MSAQ standards; participate in the acquisition/disposition, transport, acclimation, and quarantine of animals; participate in the design, construction and maintenance of lab and reserve tanks, including life support material and equipment, as assigned This position requires a highly motivated individual who will be the Coral Laboratory Aquarist working with mesophotic and deep-water coral at the offsite facility (ARC). This project is funded by the National Marine Sanctuaries Foundation and is a part of the Coral Propagation Techniques project involving multiple governmental and non-governmental partners. Funding is secured through January 31, 2026. The position will also be responsible for adhering to all aquarium safety protocols, standard operating procedures, and Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accreditation standards. Note: Position will involve exposure to inclement weather, dust, potentially dangerous and unpredictable animal species, and potentially dangerous machinery, restraint devices and toxic chemicals and/or drugs. Occasional use of protective clothing or equipment is required e.g., goggles, mask, gloves, and gowns. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in biology or related discipline or extensive hands-on experience working with a live animal collection at a zoo, aquarium or similar institution.
Experience in the care and maintenance of a wide variety of coral and invertebrates.
Experience and proficiency in the capture, handling, transfer and transportation of coral and invertebrates.
Possesses experience and knowledge towards disease and treatment of corals and invertebrates.
Must have good organization and time management skills.
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays.
Must respond to emergency calls involving but not limited to animal related or life support.
This position calls for physical activity throughout the day; must be able to stand, stoop, walk on possible uneven surfaces, climb ladders, and lift a minimum of 50lbs.
Must possess a valid Driver’s License and insurance, or ability to obtain one within 60 days of employment.
Must be self-motivated, with the desire to provide the best care to animals under care.

Nice To Haves

6 months experience working at a public/private aquarium preferred.

Responsibilities

Responsible for the care and feeding of the coral collection and systems at off-site facility
Participate in the acquisition and transport of corals and invertebrates
Participates in the design and construction of new and renovated systems, maintenance, and appearance of existing exhibits and tanks, including life support materials and equipment.
Serves as a representative of the Aquarium to the public and media.
Train and mentor new volunteers and interns in all aspects of husbandry
Responds to life-support and animal-related emergencies, at times after work.
Provides support for other departments as needed.
Possess keen observational skills and be highly detail-oriented and adept at problem solving.
Assist in writing SOPs for future staff members and for overall coral project.
Adhere to all organizational and departmental policies and procedures.
Maintains detailed data records (photos, measurements, medical records, etc.) and contributes to information gathered as directed by the Project Managers of the CPT team.
Other duties as assigned or required.