Seasonal Aquarist Trainee

Aquarium Of The Pacific • Long Beach, CA

246d • $17

About The Position

Seasonal Aquarist Trainees (SATs) at Aquarium of the Pacific are meant to provide on the job training and experience to aid recent graduates (or those with equivalent experience) in securing an entry level animal care roles in aquarium industry. SATs will complete up to 500 hours in an 18-26-week period starting July 2025. SATs will be trained in daily husbandry skills needed to care for a diverse collection of marine fishes and invertebrates including food prep, exhibit maintenance, and more. Each SAT will be matched with a direct mentor for coaching, feedback, and to support the successful completion of the seasonal role. During their time, SATs will receive one-on-one training and feedback from other members of the fish and invertebrate animal care team. SATs will be introduced to aquarium science concepts including some of the following: conservation programs, aquatic sustainability, animal welfare monitoring, behavioral training, introduction to filtration design/plumbing, fish and invertebrate quarantine, and animal enrichment.

Requirements

• Interest in pursuing an animal care role in marine or aquarium science fields.
• Broad knowledge of biological principles, especially those relating to marine habitats.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively to staff and visitors alike.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks.
• Some previous experience in aquarium keeping.
• Recently graduated from a university, community college program, or equivalent experience.
• Able to complete the hours within the following scheduling requirements: Up to 500 hours, 20-28 hours per week, 18-26 weeks (July-December 2024), At least 3 days a week.
• Must attend education sessions when applicable.
• SATs will be asked to meet weekly with Aquarist mentor.
• Must complete our general orientation session, Aquarium 101.
• Open water dive certification is NOT required for this position.

Nice To Haves

• SCUBA certified candidates may have the opportunity for exhibit diving experience.

Responsibilities

• Daily food preparation and feeding
• Exhibit and behind-the-scenes cleaning
• Record keeping
• Life support system maintenance and cleaning
• Animal observation, training participation, enrichment, and welfare monitoring
• Participate in veterinary procedures, annual equipment maintenance, annual animal physicals, quarantine procedures, animal propagation/cultivation, and animal capture and transfer techniques.

Benefits

• Hourly wage of $17.00
• On-the-job training and experience
• Mentorship from experienced staff

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Museums, Historical Sites, and Similar Institutions
• Education Level: No Education Listed