Overview
Part-Time Aquarist Jobs in Jersey City, NJ at Liberty Science Center
Part-Time Aquarist
The Role
Aquarists are responsible for the ongoing care and exhibition of the live animal population. They must implement professional husbandry protocols in regards to animal care and exhibit maintenance. The aquarists provide all aspects of daily care for the animals, including feeding, maintenance of enclosures and associated life support, enrichment, and health maintenance and treatment.
The aquarist will enjoy benefits seldom offered at other facilities. Examples include the opportunity for design creativity with both freshwater and saltwater aquarium systems, cross-training and educational opportunities with mammals, invertebrates, reptiles and amphibians, and the occasional educational and inspirational excursions and seminars. Employees work with a team of kind, helpful, motivated, and dedicated individuals.
This position reports to the Director of Animal Husbandry.
What You’ll Bring
You have a strong interest in animals of all kinds, ecology, and/or informal education. You have the ability and disposition to handle the demands of caring for live animals in a highly public-facing environment and can demonstrate a strong knowledge of husbandry practices. You are detail-oriented, a team player, and a skilled observer who excels at both written and oral communication. You take pride in your work to maintain high standards of care and provide a rich guest experience through the display and maintenance of live animal exhibits. You are proactive, exercise sound judgment, and respond quickly in emergency situations with appropriate action. You are comfortable working with a wide range of invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, fishes, birds, and mammals.
What You’ll Do
The Aquarist will:
Provide care of the aquatic animal population, totaling 20,000 gallons, with individual aquaria as large as 7,000 gallons
Perform daily cleaning, diet preparation, feedings, enrichment, training & observations of animals, and maintenance of exhibits and life support systems
Assist with ongoing care for the remainder of the live animal population, including invertebrates, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals
Maintain an intimate knowledge of animal health, exhibits, life support system operation, inventory, animal transport, quarantine procedures, species id and compatibility, disease recognition and animal ambassador protocols consistent with the highest standards of animal welfare
Implement high quality standards for exhibits and back of house spaces to clean, well-organized, and hazard free work areas
Input and maintain accurate records of daily observations and animal care data into databases
Repair and maintenance of life support equipment, including pumps, UV sterilizers, protein skimmers, sand filters, plumbing, etc.
Train, supervise, and evaluate interns and volunteers
Participate in programs and public activities as directed
Perform lab work, such as regular water quality testing and necropsy as needed
Assist in the planning and operation of specimen collection trips
Collaborate on ideating, developing and producing creative solutions that serve to strengthen LSC’s brand, mission, and revenue
Other responsibilities, as assigned
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)
Candidates should have thorough knowledge of animal husbandry practices, keeper safety protocols, and exhibit and life support system maintenance
Familiarity with aquarium systems, including life support systems, aquatic animal husbandry, maintenance needs, and quarantine protocols
Knowledge of water chemistry, biological processes, and water quality analysis
Knowledge of animal care, common health concerns, and treatment
Must be able to work effectively in a team-oriented workplace, and with the general public
Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to set priorities
Experience with plumbing
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in biological or life sciences, or equivalent training and experience
Candidates should have experience caring for animals in a professional setting
Possession of a valid driver’s license in good standing is required
Special Job-Related Requirements
SCUBA certification
Final offer contingent upon the successful outcome of a TB screening
Supervisory Responsibilities
Aquarist will share supervisory responsibilities of interns and volunteers with other Animal Husbandry Department staff.
Classification and Schedule
This is a regular part-time, non-exempt position, meaning you are eligible for overtime. The schedule will include one weekend day. The ideal candidate must be available to work a flexible schedule that includes emergency response, and occasional early mornings, evenings, and holidays. This position is an essential service position, and will be required to provide services during emergency situations.
Physical/Environmental Demands
This position will require significant physical effort on a daily basis such as walking, bending, stooping, climbing ladders, reaching above the head, repetitive motions, lifting and carrying heavy objects (up to 60 pounds), or standing for long periods. This position will require the ability to effectively perform dive procedures in LSC’s aquaria. This position may require the ability to make coordinated gross motor movements in response to changing external stimuli within moderately demanding tolerances. This position requires the ability to withstand exposure to nuts, legumes, and high levels of noises and crowds. This position will involve work in wet or humid environments, from heights, and in confined spaces. This position will require the ability to use and handle hooks, tongs, nets, and other animal handling equipment. This position will include exposure to potentially dangerous animals, including venomous animals. Candidates must have immunocompetence and be able to work in an environment with possible exposure to zoonoses.
The Aquarist will at times operate standard office equipment, such as a computer, printer, and phone. In addition, the Aquarist will frequently carry and operate a two-way radio.
Our Culture & Benefits
Liberty Science Center is located in a beautiful waterfront state park in Jersey City, New Jersey. Not only is Jersey City easy to get to from any points in Northern NJ and Manhattan, but it also holds the title of the most diverse city in the United States. Employees have access to free parking, the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail, and the NJ Path train. In addition, all employees have access to an on-site café and a terrace with stunning NYC views.
Travel
This position requires occasional travel.
Compensation
The Part-Time Aquarist position is compensated at a rate of $23.00/hr. Liberty Science Center also provides perks for all eligible part-time employees, including:
Paid sick time
25% discount for staff in the LSC store
15% discount in the Cosmic Cafe
LSC Membership
Free parking
To Apply:
Please submit a cover letter and resume highlighting why this role and this organization are a good fit for you, and complete the required questions (on the LSC Careers Page).
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $23.00 per hour
Benefits:
Employee discount
Paid time off
Schedule:
8 hour shift
Work Location: In person
Title: Part-Time Aquarist
Company: Liberty Science Center
Location: Jersey City, NJ
