Senior Aquarist

Position Summary:

Under the supervision of the Associate Director of Operations, the Senior Aquarist will fill the primary role of providing high standard husbandry care and maintenance for all aquatic exhibits, displaying local Santa Monica Bay species. As an advanced level position, the Senior Aquarist will be expected to have a strong base understanding of aquarium science and the ability to lead projects, develop volunteers, and contribute to the overall mission of Heal the Bay.

Essential Job Functions Include:

• Daily duties include but are not limited to: cleaning exhibits, food preparation and feedings, treating any injured/diseased individuals as necessary, making observations and recognizing abnormal animal behavior/appearance, acting upon/reporting such observations in a timely manner, and completing all necessary records and paperwork thoroughly
• Maintains all life support systems equipment, aquarium exhibits, and facilities. Identifies issues, performs necessary repairs, develops new systems, and keeps adequate supplies in stock
• Performs routine water quality analysis, monitors trends, and makes necessary adjustments to maintain ideal aquatic habitat conditions
• Leads and/or assists with acquiring all aquatic specimens through industry supplier purchase, zoological institution trade/donation or in boat collecting trips
• Performs veterinary/medical procedures under the guidance of the HTB contracted veterinarian
• Assists with procurement of supplies and equipment within quarterly/monthly designated budgets
• Assists in the advancement and implementation of exhibit goals by contributing to design and management
• Trains, develops, and oversees the work of aquarist volunteers and interns
• Contributes to the mission of Heal the Bay by creating exhibit displays and work that promotes science, education, community action, and advocacy
• Performs all other duties as required

Preferred Experience/Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, fisheries, zoology or related field required OR equivalent experience.
• 3+ years of progressive levels of responsibility providing daily husbandry to aquatic animals
• Knowledge of modern principles of animal care and welfare, including behavioral enrichment, habitat, nutrition, disease, training, water quality, and transport
• Open Water SCUBA certified. Rescue Diver Certification preferred or the ability to get the certification within 4 months of hire
• Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds, kneel, bend, crouch, squat, and stand for extended periods of time
• Ability to work effectively in wet conditions indoors and out, as well as, in inclement weather
• Experience with computerized record keeping software such as Tracks is highly preferred

If you don’t meet all of the preferred skills above, you are still encouraged to apply and will be considered based on diverse and equivalent skills and experience.

Compensation: This is a non-exempt full-time position $20-$24 per hour with appropriate state and federal taxes withheld.

Benefits: There are dental, medical, health insurance, and vacation benefits included as part of employment. In accordance with California Labor Law, employee will be eligible to receive up to 72 hours of paid sick leave per calendar year, after completing 90 days of employment. All Heal the Bay recognized Holidays will be compensated in accordance to time worked.

Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours per week. Must be available for weekends, evenings, and holidays.

Application Deadline: February 1st, 2023

To Apply: Please submit cover letter and/or brief introduction and resume/CV