Job Description
Job Description
Job Title: Aquarist I
Department: Aquarium
Reports To: Director of Aquarium
Date Created: December 9th, 2025
SUMMARY
The Aquarist I position at the Cox Science Center and Aquarium is a full-time, entry-level position that provides husbandry for the Science Center’s living collection consisting of aquatic fishes, invertebrates, and reptiles. Aquarists will maintain the aquariums and other exhibits housing the living collection, test and adjust water quality parameters, and offer professional and accurate interpretations to the Science Center’s guests.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Prepares diets for the living collection at the Science Center. Maintains cleanliness standards within food prep areas.
- Monitors fish and invertebrate behavior and assesses body condition of specimens.
- Cleans exhibits – occasionally requiring SCUBA – to meet animal health standards and create a vibrant guest experience.
- Interacts with guests through scheduled presentations as well as informal interactions, maintaining the highest level of professionalism.
- Maintains live food holding systems, as assigned.
- Implements quarantine procedures as assigned and maintains biosecurity between systems.
- Maintains detailed husbandry records and inventory logs.
- Participates in animal medical procedures as needed.
- Performs water quality testing, following institutional guidelines.
- Takes action to adjust water quality through chemical dosing and mechanical processes.
- Communicates effectively and professionally with team members and managerial staff.
- Participates in the collection and transport of specimens.
- Maintains workspace organization and cleanliness.
- Adheres to all organizational and departmental policies and procedures
- Other duties as assigned or required
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Knowledge of fish taxonomy and aquarium keeping methods
- Knowledge of life support systems and water quality parameters for aquatic species.
- Must have keen observation skills and be detail-oriented.
- Ability to use hand and power tools.
- Ability to collaborate with others in a professional manner
- Ability to create, compose, and edit written materials using basic computer skills in Word, Excel, internet navigation, e-mail and spreadsheet programs.
- Able to work well with supervisors and staff.
- Ability to work a non-traditional schedule, including some weekends and holidays.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology, or a related field.
- Driver’s license or ability to obtain one.
- Open water SCUBA certification from a recognized accreditation program. Higher certifications preferred.
- Husbandry experience at a public aquarium or zoo preferred.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The duties required of this position involve frequent standing and walking. Sitting, kneeling, and the ability to climb ladders are also necessary. The position requires occasional lifting of up to 60 pounds. This position requires vision, whether aided or unaided, to detect hazards and navigate workspaces.