Associate Aquarist (Level 1)

Dive into a rewarding career in marine conservation with the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center (NBSTCC)! We’re seeking a passionate individual to join our team as a Level 1 Associate Aquarist at our stunning location on Navarre Beach. If you’re ready to make a splash in the world of aquatic life, apply now and be a part of something truly special!

Purpose of Position: To professionally care for the fish, stingrays, and sea turtle in the collection and their habitats in which they live.

Position Summary: The Associate Aquarist position will work closely with other team members to ensure proper husbandry, training, enrichment and area cleanliness are maintained to high standards. Our team members will develop strong positive relationships with all animals under their care. The Associate aquarist will work closely with the senior aquarist on water quality and water filtration needs daily.

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Must have knowledge of water quality and Life Support Systems (LSS). Be able to perform filter backwashes on exhibit systems as required and adjust water quality parameters according to supervisor instructions.
• Conducts daily observation and timely recording of animal health indicators such as, animal diet intake, body condition, and behavior. Prompt reporting of noted abnormalities or health concerns and treatment of injured/diseased to supervisors.
• Responsible for diet preparation and feedings. Be comfortable with handling and feeding live fish, shrimp, and insects, and other food sources to animals that require live feedings.
• Knowledge of dietary requirements and ability to prepare specialized diets that would include supplements or medications given to animals with the direction of the NBSTCC veterinarian or medications that would be added directly to the water.
• Maintain exhibit quality standards through daily cleaning and inspections under USDA guidelines.
• Responsible for the mixing of artificial salt water per the company policy and perform water transfers, chemical treatments, and other tests when needed.
• Provides new daily enrichment for all animals.
• Perform routine maintenance per factory standards on life support equipment.

Additional Requirements:

• Must be a US citizen to apply
• Desired Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology, Biology, OR equivalent experience.
• Must have at least one year of experience providing daily husbandry to aquatic animals required. Able to understand modern principles of animal care and welfare, including behavioral enrichment, medical treatments, exhibit displays, nutrition, disease, transport, and training.
• Strong written, oral, interpersonal, and creative communication skills.
• Must be physically fit, able to lift, carry, and push objects weighing at least 70 lbs. (with help if necessary).
• Includes exposure to sounds and noise levels that may be distracting or uncomfortable.
• Possesses the ability to work safely in wet conditions and outdoors in inclement weather.
• Physical exertion will include repetitive standing, walking, stooping, bending, pushing, twisting, and lifting.Important Information: The NBSTCC reserves the right to revise or change this job description as necessary or as business requires.

This job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment. There is a 90- day probationary period. Florida is an “at-will” employment state, the NBSTCC may hire, promote, or terminate employment at any time.