Aquarist

Audubon Institute•New Orleans, LA

29d•Onsite

About The Position

The Audubon Aquarium is looking for a motivated individual to add to the team at the Audubon Aquatic Center (AAC), the quarantine facility for the Audubon Aquarium and Insectarium and home to the Audubon Aquarium Rescue (AAR) program. The Keeper Aquarist is a mid to high-level position within the aquarist range. Demonstrated knowledge and experience will determine placement within the Keeper level. This position is responsible for all aspects of running the AAC, including general husbandry care of a wide range of taxa, exhibit maintenance, daily water quality testing and dosing systems according to veterinary established quarantine protocols, life support maintenance and repair of all systems. Partners with AAR to support rehabilitation efforts by maintaining all rehab enclosures within proper life support and water quality parameters to meet all USWFS and NOAA regulations governing rehab animals. Completes building maintenance projects as needed.

Requirements

Minimum of two years of paid experience in a zoological facility, public aquarium, or similar facility OR demonstrated and confirmed skill set.
Familiarity with executing quarantine protocols and administering treatments.
Understanding/ experience with care of aquatic LSS systems and water chemistry in a professional setting with demonstrated success.
Familiarity with using professional animal recordkeeping software, ZIMS preferred.
High School diploma (or equivalent) and a degree from a recognized college or university are required.
Accurate oral and written communication skills.
Must maintain a valid driver’s license
Proven competency in the application of Microsoft Office, Word, PowerPoint and Excel computer programs is required.
Must have the ability to use mobile devices to facilitate effective communication.
Have a general understanding of the use of basic power tools. Ability and willingness to operate power tools, lawn equipment, etc.
Sitting or standing, bending, stooping and per OSHA regulations: Heavy work involving lifting no more than 100 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or carrying of objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
Must be able to swim.
Aquarist must maintain regular attendance in compliance with Audubon standards, as required by scheduling which may vary according to the needs of the organization.
Working long hours between breaks or meals required.
Willingness to work weekends, holidays, irregular hours and be available based on special needs/circumstances on a 24-hour basis.
Ability to work around and handle raw seafood, including shellfish.
Ability to work under and handle stress in an appropriate manner required.
May be exposed to high, medium, or low noise intensity.
Exposure to extreme fluctuations in temperatures is required.
Willingness to work outdoors, lift heavy objects, and risk periodic exposure to fairly predictable and controllable hazards associated with wild animals and zoonotic diseases.
Willingness to serve on the Aquarium’s Hurricane Team if required.

Nice To Haves

SCUBA certification strongly preferred.
First Aid/ CPR preferred
Basic carpentry, plumbing and horticultural skills are considered an asset.

Responsibilities

Provides a high standard of animal care.
Upkeep and preventative maintenance of LSS, including sand filter stirring, small- medium sized plumbing projects, backwashes of small and large sand filters. Responsible for all aspects of exhibit maintenance.
Serves as the water quality testing personnel and as life support staff for the AAC.
Responsible for carrying out veterinary prescribed quarantine plans.
Serves as assistance to AAR staff for animal procedures as needed.
Responsible for upholding all biosecurity protocols based on quarantine acquisitions and rescued animals residing at the AAC.
Uses training (operant conditioning) and enrichment to accomplish behavior and wellbeing goals.
Follows direction and acts in accordance with all established protocols and procedures.
Monitors exhibit functionality, air and water parameters, identifying and communicating anomalies/concerns promptly.
Accurate recordkeeping for short- and long-term monitoring of health, behavior, tracking trends and advancing animal practices.
Completes professional development as assigned.
Assists with tours and able to represent Audubon Nature Institute with professionalism and in support of mission-oriented efforts.
Possesses strong communication skills, including listening and thoughtful dialogue.
Maintain a positive attitude and a strong sense of accountability, fostering a collaborative team environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute.
Thrive in a team environment, using your organizational and technical skills to ensure the smooth execution of creative projects that resonate with our audience.
Celebrate the successes of your team and bring enthusiasm to your work, reflecting the joyful culture that is at the heart of Audubon’s mission.
Stay adaptable and open to learning new skills, embracing change and innovation as opportunities to lead and grow.