Aquarist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving world of aquatic life, the role of an aquarist has become increasingly significant.

As aquatic ecosystems continue to be explored and understood, there’s a growing demand for skilled individuals who can nurture, maintain, and protect these underwater realms.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an aquarist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to grasp the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate world of aquaristics,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we reveal a customizable aquarist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Aquarist Duties and Responsibilities

Aquarists are responsible for the care and maintenance of marine animals and plants within an aquarium environment.

Their work involves tasks related to feeding, cleaning, monitoring health and ensuring the overall welfare of marine life.

The duties and responsibilities of an Aquarist include:

• Feeding and providing care for a variety of marine animals
• Monitoring and maintaining the appropriate living conditions for aquatic life, which includes checking water quality, temperature, and lighting
• Performing routine checks to identify and treat any health issues or diseases in marine animals
• Designing and implementing animal enrichment activities to promote natural behaviors and well-being
• Maintaining records of animal care, including feeding schedules, medical treatments, and behavioral observations
• Assisting in the capture and transportation of marine animals as needed
• Implementing and ensuring compliance with animal health and safety regulations
• Collaborating with other professionals such as veterinarians, researchers, and scientists on various projects
• Providing educational information and presentations to the public about marine life and conservation efforts
• Performing regular maintenance and cleaning tasks in the aquarium, including cleaning tanks and replacing equipment as necessary

 

Aquarist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated Aquarist to join our team and manage the care, display and breeding of our aquatic animals.

This role includes monitoring the health of the animals, feeding and maintaining the aquarium tanks.

The ideal candidate will have a background in marine biology or a related field and a passion for aquatic life.

The ability to work independently and as a part of a team is crucial in this role.

 

Responsibilities

• Monitor the health of all aquarium animals and take necessary actions in case of disease or injury
• Perform regular feeding of the animals
• Maintain cleanliness of aquarium tanks
• Set up and tear down exhibits as needed
• Perform regular water quality tests and adjust conditions as necessary
• Assist in the breeding of aquatic animals
• Provide educational presentations to visitors about the aquatic life
• Adhere to all safety and health regulations
• Work closely with other staff to ensure the well-being of all animals

 

Qualifications

• Previous work experience as an Aquarist or a similar role
• Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology, Zoology or a related field
• Knowledge of aquatic animal health and nutrition
• Experience in maintaining and troubleshooting aquarium life-support systems
• Ability to handle and restrain various aquatic species
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• SCUBA certification is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee discount

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Aquarist
• Work Environment: This role requires working in an indoor aquarium setting. Physical demands include lifting heavy items, bending, kneeling, and working in water.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Aquarium Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $50,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Aquarist Do?

Aquarists are typically employed by aquariums, zoos, marine parks, or research institutions, where they are responsible for the maintenance and care of aquatic life.

Their primary responsibility is to maintain the health and well-being of the aquatic organisms under their care.

This includes feeding the animals, monitoring their health, and providing necessary medical treatments.

Aquarists also play a crucial role in managing the water quality and environmental conditions in the tanks and enclosures.

They ensure the temperature, pH levels, salinity and other critical parameters are within the appropriate range for the specific species housed.

In addition, aquarists are often responsible for designing and setting up aquatic habitats that mimic the natural environments of the organisms.

They also may interact with the public, providing information and education about the animals and their ecosystems.

Some aquarists are involved in research, conservation efforts, and breeding programs for endangered species, contributing to the knowledge and preservation of marine and freshwater life.

Their work involves a combination of practical hands-on tasks, scientific knowledge, and creativity, making it a diverse and rewarding career for those passionate about aquatic life.

 

Aquarist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Aquarist should have the skills and qualifications that align with the job description, such as:

• Extensive knowledge of marine biology to understand the needs of different aquatic animals and create suitable environments for them.
• Good animal handling skills to safely and efficiently manage and care for aquatic life.
• Attention to detail to monitor the health of the animals and detect any changes or diseases early.
• Technical skills to operate and maintain aquarium equipment such as filters, pumps, heaters, and lighting systems.
• Physical endurance and diving skills for cleaning tanks and feeding animals, some of which may require diving into large aquarium tanks.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly and effectively respond to issues such as equipment malfunctions or sick animals.
• Communication and educational skills to inform and educate the public about marine life and conservation efforts.
• Basic veterinary skills for administering medication and first aid to aquatic creatures.

 

Aquarist Experience Requirements

Aquarists typically start their career journey by obtaining a degree in Marine Biology, Zoology, or a related field.

During their studies, they often gain a foundational knowledge of aquatic life and systems.

Internships at aquariums, marine research centers, or zoos are a common way for aspiring aquarists to gain practical experience.

These opportunities often involve working with a variety of aquatic species and learning about their care, diet, and habitat maintenance.

Entry-level positions for aquarists usually require at least 1 to 2 years of relevant experience, which can be obtained through internships, research projects, or part-time roles in aquariums or marine centers.

Aquarists with around 3 to 5 years of experience generally have a deeper understanding of aquatic life, have advanced skills in maintaining marine systems, and may have experience in breeding and rearing a variety of aquatic species.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have held supervisory or managerial roles, overseeing a team of aquarists, managing large-scale aquatic exhibits, or coordinating conservation and research projects.

These seasoned professionals are often considered for senior-level aquarist positions or roles like Aquarium Curator.

 

Aquarist Education and Training Requirements

To become an Aquarist, one typically needs a bachelor’s degree in marine biology, zoology, or a related field.

Some aquarists might even hold a master’s degree or Ph.D. in a relevant area of study.

The course work for these degrees often includes biology, chemistry, physics, and specialized classes in ichthyology, animal behavior, and conservation.

Practical experience and internships in aquariums, zoos, or marine habitats are highly beneficial.

In addition to formal education, a successful Aquarist needs to have strong swimming skills and scuba certification as their work often involves diving into the aquatic exhibits for maintenance and care of the marine life.

While not always required, professional certifications such as Certified Aquarium Professional (CAP) by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) can enhance an Aquarist’s credentials.

Continued education and training in animal care, water quality management, and marine conservation are also essential for career advancement in this field.

 

Aquarist Salary Expectations

The average salary for an Aquarist is around $34,974 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can vary widely depending on factors such as years of experience, level of education, geographic location, and the size and funding of the aquarium or other institution.

 

Aquarist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Aquarist need?

Aquarists need a keen eye for detail to observe and monitor aquatic life’s behavior and health.

They should also have good manual dexterity to handle delicate aquatic creatures and equipment.

A good understanding of biological and aquatic science is essential.

Aquarists should also possess excellent communication skills to interact with the public and educate them about aquatic life.

 

Do Aquarists need a degree?

While not strictly necessary, many Aquarists hold a bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology, Zoology, or a related field.

Some Aquarists even have a master’s degree or higher.

Practical experience, such as internships or volunteer work at an aquarium, can also be incredibly beneficial.

 

What should you look for in an Aquarist resume?

A qualified Aquarist’s resume should highlight education in relevant fields, such as marine biology or zoology.

You should look for experience in caring for marine life, which could include internships, volunteer work, or previous employment at an aquarium.

Skills such as scuba diving, boat handling, and first aid can also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Aquarist?

A good Aquarist should have a passion for marine life and a deep understanding of their needs.

They should be detail-oriented, as they need to monitor the health and behavior of a variety of aquatic species closely.

They should also have good physical stamina, as the role can be physically demanding, with tasks such as tank cleaning and transporting heavy equipment.

A good Aquarist should also be a good communicator, able to effectively educate the public about marine life.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Aquarist?

Hiring an Aquarist can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.

It requires a unique combination of education and hands-on experience.

Additionally, Aquarists must be willing to work unconventional hours, including weekends and holidays, as the care of the marine animals does not stop.

Therefore, finding the right fit for this role may require thorough searching and screening.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve plunged into the depths of what it truly means to be an aquarist.

Surprising, isn’t it?

It’s not just about maintaining aquariums.

It’s about nurturing marine life, one tank at a time.

With our go-to aquarist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the plunge.

But why stop there?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your next step towards crafting detailed listings or refining your resume to precision.

Remember:

Every tank you maintain is part of a larger ecosystem.

Let’s create that world. Together.

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