Senior Aquarist

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 Senior Aquarist (L3) 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!

Position Summary: Review data from daily aquarium activity and ensure that the health and wellbeing of the aquatic animals are addressed.  Respond to emergencies in a timely manner. Required to adhere to Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission’s Marine Turtle Program and Permit regulations, protocols, and permits.  Works collaboratively with the centers management, Animal Care Team Manager, and the Board of Directors as part of the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center (NBSTCC) team. 

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Must have knowledge of water quality and Life support systems and be able to apply it daily with adequate testing. Be able to perform filter backwashes on exhibit systems as required and adjust water quality parameters accordingly.
• Manages all aspects of the day-to-day aquarium and animal care operations. Ensures that work is done in a timely manner and in accordance with established procedures and Florida state laws.
• Trains and directs staff and volunteers on proper procedures and care of aquarium animals to provide for their growth and to maximize the potential of all ACT staff and volunteers.
• Conduct inventory of supplies and maintains food/supplements/medications and other supplies required for the care and maintenance of the aquatic animals and their habitats.
• Makes dietary adjustments that may be necessary and ensures all ACT staff and volunteers are aware of changes.
• Develops proper nutritional diets for all aquatic animals.
• Adept at observation to watch for signs of illness or injury, monitor eating patterns, or any changes in behavior.
• Administers prescribed medications and treatments to animals and aquariums when needed.
• Maintain exhibit quality standards through daily cleaning and inspections under USDA guidelines.
• Ensures water quality is maintained, and that the temperature is adjusted as needed.
• Maintains aquarium environments by performing regular maintenance and repairs on life support equipment such as filters, pumps, and heaters.
• Plans and implements new habitat and habitat changes. Develops enrichment items for aquatic fish and animals.
• Maintains knowledge of industry innovations and new techniques.
• Works with the ACT Manager to create and implement new protocols and procedures.
• Required to be present at all sea turtle medical assessments and trained in all aspects of sea turtle care.
• Interacts with the public in a fast-paced work environment, which, at times, may be stressful or emotionally charged, participates in programs and events.
• Records water quality results daily in the Water Quality Log.
• Ensures the filtration area behind the fence is clean and neat.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

 • Possesses extensive knowledge of aquariums, life support systems, fish, and aquatic animals.
 • Excellent interpersonal skills demonstrating genuine care for team members.
 • Minimum of three (3) years’ experience in aquatic animal care, including assessment of animal health through behavior and physical assessment.
 • 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 administered directly into the habitats.

 Additional Requirements:

 • Strong written, oral, interpersonal, and creative communication skills.
 • Detail oriented and self-motivated with the ability to apply innovative thinking to make informed decisions, resolve  problems, and discrepancies based on knowledge of people or animals involved.
 • The work environment at the NBSTCC is high-energy and high-performance. The pace is fast, and change is constant.
 • In the unlikely event an animal needs 24/7 attention must be available for monitoring.
 • Must be able to conduct and/or learn required information and techniques associated with animal care.
 • 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.
 • Must be comfortable with handling and feeding live fish, shrimp, and insects, and other food sources to animals that require live feedings.

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. Must live in the US currently and must be a US Citizen to apply.