Aquarium Maintenance Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of aquatic life, the role of aquarium maintenance specialists has never been more vital.

As our understanding and appreciation of aquatic ecosystems deepen, so does the demand for skilled specialists who can create, maintain, and enhance these underwater environments.

But what does being an aquarium maintenance specialist truly entail?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the essence of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply captivated by the world of aquarium maintenance,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable aquarium maintenance specialist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Aquarium Maintenance Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Aquarium Maintenance Specialists perform a range of tasks related to maintaining aquarium health, cleanliness, and presentation.

They also provide care and feeding for the marine life in the aquarium.

Aquarium Maintenance Specialists are primarily responsible for the upkeep and health of the aquarium, with daily duties and responsibilities including:

• Monitoring the health of the aquatic life and identifying any illnesses or problems
• Feeding the aquarium’s inhabitants at scheduled intervals
• Ensuring the aquarium’s cleanliness by cleaning tanks and filters
• Checking and maintaining the correct temperature, pH levels, and salinity of the water
• Installing and maintaining aquarium equipment such as lights, filters, and pumps
• Replacing parts and equipment as needed
• Setting up and cycling new aquariums and habitats
• Advising clients on the correct care and maintenance of their aquariums and marine life
• Ordering aquarium supplies and marine life food

 

Aquarium Maintenance Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Aquarium Maintenance Specialist to manage and maintain our aquatic exhibits.

The specialist will be responsible for the regular cleaning and upkeep of aquariums, monitoring and ensuring the health of marine life, maintaining equipment, and providing excellent care for our marine inhabitants.

Our ideal candidate has a strong understanding of marine biology, is detail-oriented, and demonstrates the physical stamina necessary for regular aquarium cleaning and maintenance tasks.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform regular cleaning and maintenance of aquariums including water changes, filter cleaning, and algae control
• Monitor the health of marine life and report any concerns or irregularities
• Properly feed and care for marine life
• Maintain and repair aquarium equipment
• Perform water quality tests to ensure optimal conditions
• Assist with the setup of new aquarium exhibits
• Provide educational information and answer visitor inquiries
• Adhere to all safety and sanitation policies and procedures

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience in aquarium maintenance or related role
• Knowledge of marine biology and aquatic ecosystems
• Ability to handle delicate marine species carefully and humanely
• Physical stamina for regular cleaning and maintenance tasks
• Attention to detail and problem-solving skills
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• High school diploma required; degree in marine biology or related field preferred

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Aquarium Maintenance Specialist
• Work Environment: Indoor and outdoor aquarium settings. Physical work including lifting, bending, and standing for long periods is required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Aquarium Manager or Director.
• 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 Aquarium Maintenance Specialist Do?

Aquarium Maintenance Specialists are professionals who are responsible for the health and upkeep of aquariums both private and public.

They plan and execute regular cleaning schedules for aquarium tanks and equipment, ensuring that the water is always in suitable condition for the creatures inhabiting it.

Part of their job is to monitor the health of the aquarium’s inhabitants, looking for signs of illness or distress, and administer treatment if necessary.

They also feed the animals, ensuring they get the proper nutrition for their species and size.

Aquarium Maintenance Specialists also handle the installation and maintenance of aquarium equipment such as filters, lighting, and heating systems.

They test and adjust the water chemistry to ensure the correct pH, salinity, and oxygen levels.

They are also responsible for designing and implementing aquascapes – the layout and decoration of the aquarium – to create an environment that simulates the natural habitats of the animals.

Often, these specialists educate aquarium visitors or aquarium owners on the care, maintenance, and conservation of aquatic life.

They may also be involved in breeding programs and record-keeping for the animals under their care.

In some cases, Aquarium Maintenance Specialists may even dive into large tanks to perform cleaning and maintenance tasks or interact with larger aquatic animals.

 

Aquarium Maintenance Specialist Qualifications and Skills

An Aquarium Maintenance Specialist should have a range of specific skills and qualifications to ensure the health and wellbeing of aquatic life, such as:

• Knowledge of aquatic biology and understanding of the needs of various types of aquatic species, including their dietary requirements, behavior and habitat needs.
• Experience with aquarium equipment such as filters, heaters, lighting systems, and water conditioners, and the ability to maintain, repair, and troubleshoot these systems.
• Excellent observation skills to monitor aquarium inhabitants for signs of stress or disease, and to detect any changes in water quality or equipment function.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and address issues such as changes in water parameters, fish diseases, or equipment malfunctions.
• Physical stamina and dexterity for tasks such as cleaning aquariums, lifting heavy equipment, and handling delicate aquatic species.
• Communication skills to provide updates to aquarium owners or staff, explain maintenance procedures, and offer advice on aquarium care.
• Ability to work independently, as many tasks require individual focus and dedication, but also capability to work as part of a team in larger aquarium settings.
• Attention to detail to ensure that all aspects of aquarium care, from water quality to fish health, are meticulously monitored and maintained.

 

Aquarium Maintenance Specialist Experience Requirements

To qualify as an Aquarium Maintenance Specialist, entry-level candidates typically need to have a minimum of 1 to 2 years of experience in aquarium care.

This can often be gained through part-time work or internships at pet stores, zoos, or marine centers.

Candidates should have hands-on experience in maintaining a healthy aquatic environment, including understanding the intricacies of water chemistry, temperature control, and knowledge of different species of aquatic life.

Experience in diagnosing and treating common fish diseases is also essential.

Those with more than 3 years of experience often have specialized knowledge in maintaining different types of aquatic systems such as freshwater, saltwater, and reef aquariums.

They may also have experience in installing and maintaining aquarium equipment, such as filters, lighting, and heaters.

Candidates with over 5 years of experience in the field are often considered experts and may have managerial experience, overseeing a team of maintenance staff, and developing maintenance schedules for large aquariums or multiple aquatic systems.

Such professionals may also have experience liaising with suppliers and vendors, ensuring adequate stock of necessary supplies, and coordinating with veterinarians or marine biologists when required.

 

Aquarium Maintenance Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Becoming an Aquarium Maintenance Specialist does not necessarily require a formal degree, but a high school diploma or equivalent education is typically required.

Many aspiring Aquarium Maintenance Specialists often pursue a degree in marine biology, zoology, or a related field, which provides them with knowledge about different species of aquatic life and their habitat needs.

On-the-job training is a crucial part of becoming an Aquarium Maintenance Specialist.

This can involve learning about the care and feeding of aquarium animals, understanding water chemistry and filtration systems, and knowing how to clean and maintain the aquarium environment.

Moreover, they might need to be familiar with scuba diving for larger aquariums and may require a scuba diving certification.

While not compulsory, professional certifications like Certified Aquarium Maintenance Professional from the Aquarium Maintenance Professionals Association can be beneficial.

These certifications demonstrate a high level of expertise and commitment to the profession, making the individual a more attractive candidate for employers.

Continuous education is also important in this role since it’s necessary to stay updated on the latest developments in aquatic life care and aquarium technologies.

Many Aquarium Maintenance Specialists attend workshops, seminars, or continuing education courses to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Volunteer or internship experience at an aquarium, pet store, or related setting can also provide valuable practical experience and may increase employment opportunities.

 

Aquarium Maintenance Specialist Salary Expectations

An Aquarium Maintenance Specialist can expect to earn an average salary of $32,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can vary significantly based on experience, certifications, the size and complexity of the aquariums maintained, and the geographical location.

 

Aquarium Maintenance Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Aquarium Maintenance Specialist need?

Aquarium Maintenance Specialists need to have strong knowledge of aquatic life, including an understanding of the conditions required for their survival.

They must be skilled in aquarium set-up and maintenance, including cleaning tanks and filters, testing water quality, and adjusting environmental conditions as needed.

Additionally, they need to have good problem-solving skills to diagnose and treat illnesses in the aquatic life.

 

Do Aquarium Maintenance Specialists need a degree?

Aquarium Maintenance Specialists do not necessarily need a degree, but having one in marine biology or a related field can be beneficial.

However, hands-on experience in maintaining aquariums, knowledge of aquatic life, and the ability to diagnose and treat aquatic illnesses are crucial.

 

What should you look for in an Aquarium Maintenance Specialist resume?

An ideal Aquarium Maintenance Specialist resume should showcase relevant experience in maintaining aquariums and caring for aquatic life.

It should also include any certifications they might hold, such as from the Aquatic Animal Life Support Operators (AALSO).

Look for mentions of troubleshooting and problem-solving skills, knowledge of water chemistry, and ability to handle equipment used in aquarium maintenance.

 

What qualities make a good Aquarium Maintenance Specialist?

A good Aquarium Maintenance Specialist should have a passion for aquatic life and a dedication to maintaining their health and well-being.

They should be detail-oriented to monitor subtle changes in the aquarium environment and aquatic life’s behavior.

They should also be reliable, as regular maintenance is crucial for the aquarium’s optimal operation.

Further, good interpersonal skills are important for interacting with aquarium owners or staff.

 

What are the daily duties of an Aquarium Maintenance Specialist?

On a typical day, an Aquarium Maintenance Specialist may start by checking the health of the aquatic life and the overall condition of the aquarium.

They might test the water for various parameters, clean the tanks and filters, and feed the aquatic life.

They may also need to adjust lighting or temperature conditions as required.

If there are any sick fish or aquatic creatures, they would diagnose and treat them.

They might also consult with aquarium owners or staff, giving advice on maintaining the aquarium.

 

Conclusion

And that’s a wrap.

Today, we’ve taken you behind the scenes of what it truly means to be an aquarium maintenance specialist.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about cleaning tanks.

It’s about creating a thriving aquatic environment, one fish tank at a time.

With our handy aquarium maintenance specialist job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to dive in.

But why not take the plunge?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your next wave to crafting precise job listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every cleaned tank is a part of a bigger, healthier aquatic universe.

Let’s create that world. Together.

How to Become an Aquarium Maintenance Specialist (Complete Guide)

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