Aquarist – 128380

UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment: Apply by 02/28/2024 for consideration with preference for rehire. All layoff applicants should contact their Employment Advisor.

Special Selection Applicants: Apply by 3/11/2024. Eligible Special Selection clients should contact their Disability Counselor for assistance.

Schedule for this position: Thursday – Monday 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Under general supervision of the Senior Aquarists and Curators, this entry level position with opportunities for learning and growth, is responsible for the maintenance of the specimens and associated life support systems for the assigned gallery display tanks and associated workspace at the Birch Aquarium at Scripps. Works closely with the Sr. Life Support Aquarist in support of aquarium water quality, life support system mechanics, and laboratory needs. Observes and maintains life support systems and with maintenance, the department ensures that all external life support systems are functioning properly. Shares the animal care duties for approximately 5500 specimens representing over 300 species in over 130 tanks (65 for public view). Observes specimen health and behavior and performs the care needed to keep them in healthy condition. Maintain environmentally accurate displays. Keep accurate records monitoring specimen health, behavior, feedings, and locations. Assists in collections of specimens needed for all galleries.

• Bachelors degree in marine biology or related field and or equivalent experience.

• Minimum of six 6 months aquarist’s experience in a public aquarium.

• SCUBA certification required. Rescue diver certification preferred. Will accept basic open water certification but must acquire Aquarium diver status within 6 months

• Demonstrated knowledge of nitrification cycle and testing as it pertains to aquarium systems.

• Proven organizational skills and ability to keep accurate, consistent records relating to all aspects of animal care and systems maintenance.

• Demonstrated ability to follow all safety precautions for equipment and procedures while working on the job.

• Demonstrated good verbal and written communication skills; ability to work well with others.

• Excellence in guest experiences related to behind the scenes tours.

• Must be able to work weekends, occasional nights, major holidays, during other staff’s absence, and to respond to emergencies.

• Schedule: Thursday through Monday; 10am-7pm

• SCUBA certification required. Rescue diver certification preferred. Will accept basic open water certification but must acquire Aquarium diver status within 6 months.

Duties may require direct contact with children (defined as individuals under the age of 18); completion of the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA) training will be required. Must meet CANRA compliance requirement per California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (“CANRA,” Penal Code sections 11164-11174.4).

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range: $43,785 – $51,490 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: $20.97 – $24.66

Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).

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