Aquarist & Guest Education Specialist

Maymont Foundation; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Maymont Foundation is seeking an Aquarist to care for fish and other taxa in the Robins Nature Center, manage life support systems, and engage guests through programs and tours. The role reports to the Senior Manager of Zoology and involves occasional events outside regular hours.

Typical duties include feeding, enrichment, data recording on water quality, and collaboration with other animal care teams. SCUBA certification is preferred; associate or bachelor’s degree in relevant sciences is

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in Zoo Animal Technology or equivalent with one year of professional experience in a public aquarium, zoo or related facility utilizing life support systems.
• Bachelor’s degree in biology, ichthyology, marine science, zoology, or related natural science field preferred with knowledge of native freshwater fauna.
• SCUBA certification within six months of employment; preferred before employment.
• Basic knowledge of electricity, plumbing and mechanical aspects of aquarium life support systems.

Responsibilities

• Maintains health and appearance of all animals within the Robins Nature Center, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, raptors and mammals, through diets, feeding, cleaning, observation, enrichment and training.
• Maintains exhibit appearance and works independently or with other staff.
• Maintains, troubleshoots and repairs life support systems (LSS).
• Keeps daily records on inventory, animal health and water quality data.
• Educates and informs individuals and groups through programs, tours, workshops, supervising interns and volunteers.

Skills

Guest education

Observation & enrichment

Team collaboration

Education

Associate’s degree in Zoo Animal Technology

Bachelor’s degree in biology or related natural science

SCUBA certification

Job description

Maymont Foundation is seeking an Aquarist to care for fish and other taxa in the Robins Nature Center, manage life support systems, and engage guests through programs and tours. The role reports to the Senior Manager of Zoology and involves occasional events outside regular hours.

Typical duties include feeding, enrichment, data recording on water quality, and collaboration with other animal care teams. SCUBA certification is preferred; associate or bachelor’s degree in relevant sciences is