Aquarist I

Dauphin Island Sea Lab; Dauphin Island (AL); On-site; USD 35,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

Dauphin Island Sea Lab is seeking a dedicated wildlife/biology professional for full-time work on Dauphin Island, AL. You will care for living aquatic collections, monitor life-support systems, and plan specimen acquisitions while maintaining records and assisting with public tours and education programs.

The role requires 1–3 years of aquarium experience, strong observational and communication skills, and the ability to lift up to 50 lbs in a dynamic, visitor-facing environment.

Qualifications

• Education: B.S. in Marine Biology, Biology, Zoology, or a related field preferred.
• Experience: 1–3 years maintaining freshwater and saltwater aquarium systems preferred.
• Strong observational, organizational, and problem-solving skills under pressure.
• Basic mechanical and plumbing skills.
• Ability to collect, identify, handle, and safely transport live specimens.
• Snorkelling ability.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for interacting with guests of all ages.
• Physical Demands: Lift up to 50 lbs and navigate tight spaces around heavy exhibits.

Responsibilities

• Exhibit & Husbandry Care: Daily care, feeding, and monitoring of live animal and plant collections and coordinate care with the Curator.
• System & Water Management: Maintain aquatic life support systems and manage water quality parameters for assigned exhibits and holding areas.
• Specimen Acquisition: Plan and conduct approved collection trips, trades, or purchases to stock exhibits.
• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate, detailed daily records of husbandry, water quality, and system maintenance.
• Public Relations & Guest Experience: Maintain professional appearance, conduct behind-the-scenes tours for groups, and assist with PR events.
• General Support: Assist with fish shipments, exhibit planning, basic plumbing and equipment maintenance, and emergency coverage.
• Education: B.S. in Marine Biology, Biology, Zoology, or related field preferred.
• Experience: 1–3 years maintaining freshwater and saltwater aquarium systems preferred.

Skills

Observation

Organizational skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Mechanical skills

Plumbing

Snorkeling

Physical stamina

Education

B.S. in Marine Biology / Biology / Zoology

Job description

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)
Schedule: Full-time (Includes weekends, holidays, and a shifting schedule)
Salary Range: $35,000 - $37,000, commensurate with experience
Application Period: Open until filled

• Exhibit & Husbandry Care: Daily care, feeding, and monitoring of live animal and plant collections. Identify health issues immediately and coordinate care with the Curator.
• System & Water Management: Maintain aquatic life support systems and manage water quality parameters for assigned exhibits and holding areas.
• Specimen Acquisition: Plan and conduct approved collection trips, trades, or purchases to stock exhibits.
• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate, detailed daily records of husbandry, water quality, and system maintenance.
• Public Relations & Guest Experience: Maintain a professional appearance in visitor areas, conduct behind-the-scenes tours for groups, and assist with public relations events.
• General Support: Assist with fish shipments, exhibit planning, basic plumbing and equipment maintenance, and emergency coverage as required.
• Education: B.S. in Marine Biology, Biology, Zoology, or a related field preferred.
• Experience: 1–3 years maintaining freshwater and saltwater aquarium systems preferred.
• Strong observational, organizational, and problem-solving skills under pressure.
• Basic mechanical and plumbing skills.
• Ability to collect, identify, handle, and safely transport live specimens.
• Snorkelling ability.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for interacting with guests of all ages.
• Physical Demands: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and navigate tight, constricted spaces around heavy exhibits.