Aquarist - Dive Safety Officer

Merlin Magic Making; East Rutherford (NJ); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Join the SEA LIFE Team as an Aquarist - Dive Safety Officer, where you'll contribute to aquatic care while engaging guests about marine life. This full-time role offers a chance to expand your skills in a dynamic and conservation-oriented setting, along with competitive benefits and opportunities for career advancement.

Benefits

Competitive health, dental & vision benefits

Free admission to Merlin attractions

Opportunities for career growth & development

Supportive work environment with animal interactions

Comprehensive Paid Time Off (PTO)

Qualifications

• Must obtain Divemaster certification within 3 months.
• Experience in aquatic animal care or diving preferred.
• First Aid, CPR, AED, and DAN O2 certification required.

Responsibilities

• Provide exceptional animal care including feeding and habitat maintenance.
• Assist in daily dive operations and engage with guests.
• Maintain records for animal care and ensure safety protocols.

Skills

Animal Care

Physical Fitness

Team Collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences

2-year certification from an accredited program

Job description

What you'll bring to the team

Join the SEA LIFE Team as an Aquarist - Dive Safety Officer

East Rutherford, NJ | Full-Time | Dive into a Career with Purpose!

Are you passionate about marine animals and ready to make waves in the world of aquatic care? At SEA LIFE, we’re looking for a hands-on, animal-loving, water-wading Aquarist - Dive Safety Officerto help us deliver awe-inspiring experiences for guests and top-tier care for our incredible creatures!

This entry-level role is the perfect opportunity to grow your skills in husbandry, aquatic life support, and conservation — all while working with a passionate, tight-knit team

Qualifications & Experience

What You’ll Do

As an Aquarist - Dive Safety Officer,you’ll work closely with the Senior Aquarist and Aquarist II to ensure that our displays and animals thrive. With guidance and support, you’ll learn to manage aquatic environments, perform feedings, and take part in dive operations — all while helping our guests fall in love with the ocean world!

Key Responsibilities

• Provide exceptional animal care including feeding, enrichment, and habitat maintenance

• Assist in daily dive operations (must be or become Divemaster Certified within 3 months) ????

• Engage with guests and team members to deliver memorable, educational interactions

• Learn and follow proper protocols for water chemistry, filtration, and life support systems

• Participate in animal health checks, treatments, and basic necropsy procedures under supervision

• Maintain detailed records for animal care, observations, and safety

• Ensure safe, creative tank theming and guest-immersive experiences ????

• Champion conservation and ethical animal sourcing efforts

• Follow and uphold safety policies, reporting any concerns to leadership

???? Dive Safety Officer (DSO) Responsibilities

You’ll also assist with dive safety and operations:

• Help coordinate and enforce dive safety policies and procedures

• Maintain dive gear, safety logs, and certification records

• Support dive training and emergency drills

• Participate in and supervise in-water maintenance and safety protocols

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences (Biology, Marine Biology, Zoology, etc.) OR a 2-year certification from an accredited program (preferred)

• 1–2 years of experience in aquatic animal care or diving (preferred, not required)

• ???? Minimum Divemaster certification, or willingness to obtain within 3 months

• Ability to perform physical tasks, including lifting and underwater work

• Current or attainable First Aid, CPR, AED, and DAN O2 certification

Perks & Benefits

• ???? Competitive health, dental & vision benefits

• ️ Free admission for you, friends & family to Merlin attractions worldwide

• Opportunities for career growth & development

• Work with amazing animals & a team that shares your passion for marine life

• A fun, supportive environment where no two days are the same!

Work Environment & Schedule

• Work indoors, outdoors, and underwater

• Flexible schedule with early mornings, weekends, holidays, and occasional overnight shifts

• Must pass a dive physical and swim test within 3 months of hire

Ready to dive into an exciting aquatic career? Apply now and help us educate, inspire, and protect the world’s ocean life — one guest at a time!

Benefits

Benefits of Joining Merlin Entertainments!

Excellent Health Care Options: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage. Outstanding Paid Time Off (PTO): Enjoy well-deserved breaks to recharge! Merlin Magic Pass: Free entry for friends and family to our amazing parks & attractions. Recognition Programs and Rewards: Celebrate your achievements and hard work! 401(k) Program: Save for the future with company matching contributions. Tuition Reimbursement Programs: Get support for further education and career growth. Numerous Learning and Advancement Opportunities: Grow your skills and advance your career with us!

Ready to be a part of the magic? Apply today and start your adventure with Merlin Entertainments!

Pay Range

From USD $22.00/Hr.