Aquarist I — Dive-Certified Guest Experience

Merlin; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 21,000 - 26,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Merlin Magic Pass

Recognition Programs and Rewards

401(k) Program

Tuition Reimbursement Programs

Numerous Learning and Advancement Op­p

Health care options

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Job summary

Merlin's SEA LIFE Kansas City is seeking a dedicated Aquarist to care for displays and engage guests. You will monitor habitats, support feeding, enrichment, and welfare programs while upholding safety and SOPs.

The role requires Open Water-Dive Certification, a life sciences background or aquarist certification, and at least 1 year in a public aquarium. Flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays is expected.

Qualifications

• Flexible schedule — evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Science-minded — degree in Life Sciences or aquarium/zoological certification preferred.
• Experience welcome — at least 1 year of public aquarium experience.
• Open Water-Dive Certification required
• Motivation to complete work/tasks independently

Responsibilities

• Create unforgettable guest experiences by engaging visitors and sharing your passion for aquatic life.
• Provide top-notch animal care by supporting feeding, husbandry, enrichment, and welfare programs.
• Monitor habitats by performing basic water chemistry tests and spotting trends to keep animals thriving.
• Support animal health through daily observations, safe handling, record-keeping, and assisting with treatments.
• Maintain life support systems by following SOPs, biocontainment practices, and filtration procedures.
• Enhance exhibits by helping design safe, immersive tank theming for guests.
• Conduct safe dive operations in accordance with SEA LIFE dive policies (Open Water certified, rescue training encouraged).
• Champion safety by following health, safety, and security procedures for guests, animals, and teammates.

Skills

Flexible schedule

Public aquarium experience

Independent work

Education

Open Water-Dive Certification

Life Sciences degree or aquarium/zoological certification

Job description

Merlin's SEA LIFE Kansas City is seeking a dedicated Aquarist to care for displays and engage guests. You will monitor habitats, support feeding, enrichment, and welfare programs while upholding safety and SOPs.

The role requires Open Water-Dive Certification, a life sciences background or aquarist certification, and at least 1 year in a public aquarium. Flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays is expected.