Aquarium & Research Facilities Technician

Kate on Conservation; Plymouth; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organization in marine biology is looking for an Aquarium & Research Facilities Technician to maintain critical seawater systems and contribute to research efforts. The role requires hands-on experience in aquatic life support, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and strong teamwork skills. The position is based in Plymouth, providing a vibrant marine environment and exceptional benefits.

Benefits

30 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays

3 Privilege Days

Sick pay

10% pension contribution

Cycle to work scheme

Low-cost parking on site

Qualifications

• Experience in maintaining aquatic life support systems.
• Confident in problem-solving and ensuring animal welfare.
• Flexible schedule to accommodate seawater systems' operation.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the proper operation of seawater life support systems.
• Support animal husbandry and experimental system design.
• Collaborate with the research aquarium team and wider operational teams.

Skills

Animal husbandry

Problem-solving

Teamwork

Communication

Job description

Do you want to play your part in marine biology research for healthy oceans? Do you want to be at the centre of the effective operation and continual improvement of unique seawater life support systems and state of the art laboratory facilities? Then apply today!

You will be working with experts and leading scientists of today as well as supporting the next generation through Masters and PhD projects as part of our advanced education programme. Your daily commute will mean that you get to see the sea every day at the iconic Laboratory on The Hoe in Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City.

You will be a hands-on pro-active problem solver in order to ensure the critical seawater systems are running smoothly with the highest standards of animal welfare and care. You will be experienced and confident in maintaining aquatic life support systems, providing animal husbandry and experimental system design & development. Your communication and team working will be vital as part of the research aquarium team and wider operational teams that support internal and external users, visitors and volunteers.

You will need to be flexible in how and when you work in order to ensure the function of the seawater systems (taking into account tide times, weather and water conditions!) and be part of a rota for weekend and bank holidays.

Salary and benefits

• Salary based on experience
• 30 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays
• 3 Privilege Days given by the MBA (used during festive closure week)
• Sick pay
• Pension scheme – the MBA will contribute 10% of basic salary into a defined contribution scheme with staff making a 3% minimum contribution. The MBA will match additional employee contributions up to an additional 5%
• Cycle to work scheme and electronic vehicle lease scheme
• Low-cost bookable parking on site

For more information on the role please see the Job Description

Equal Opportunities

We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates and seek talented people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives in order to enhance all that we do.

How to apply

Please [e-mail] reference0625ARFT.You will need to provide three things to apply:

1. Covering letter that outlines your previous and most relevant experience and explains how and why this makes you right for the role.
2. CV of education and employment history along with details of two referees (one must be your current employer). References will not be sought in advance.
3. Confirmation of your right to live and work in the UK*.Your application will not be considered without this information.

Sponsorship is not available for this position.

For further information on the position, please [e-mail] arrange a call.

Interviews will take place the week commencing 14 July 2025

Only candidates invited to interview will be contacted.

Aquarium & Research Facilities Technician job description.pdf