Saltwater Aquarist

Blank Park Zoo; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive income

Benefits

Excellent working environment

Job summary

A local zoo in Des Moines is seeking a dedicated Aquatics team member to care for fish, invertebrates, amphibians, and reptiles. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in animal husbandry with skills in SCUBA diving and life support systems. Responsibilities include maintaining exhibits, assisting in medication administration, and providing customer service. The position requires a minimum of 4 years of experience or a relevant degree, along with SCUBA certification. Competitive income and benefits offered.

Qualifications

• Strong animal husbandry background with emphasis on SCUBA diving.
• Ability to operate skid loaders, trailers, and large vehicles.
• Insurable to drive a zoo vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Prepare diets and distribute food according to feeding schedules.
• Clean and maintain animal exhibits and holding areas.
• Serve as a customer service liaison providing information to visitors.

Skills

Animal husbandry

SCUBA diving

Life support system operation

Customer service

Education

4 years' experience or a degree

2 years of paid experience in the zoo field preferred

Working knowledge of Microsoft Office

Tools

SCUBA certification

Machinery and power tools

Job description

Position Purpose

The Aquatics team at Blank Park Zoo cares for fish, invertebrates, amphibians, and reptiles. Candidates should have a strong animal husbandry background with emphasis on SCUBA diving, life support system operation, and saltwater fish and aquatic invertebrate husbandry.

Essential Functions

• Prepare diets and distribute food according to feeding schedules.
• Clean and maintain animal exhibits and holding areas, including water quality control for aquatic animals.
• Assist with administration of medications and treatments following veterinary instructions.
• Mentor animal care interns and/or volunteers.
• Observe animals and evaluate behavior for health and well‑being.
• Assist with animal acquisition, acclimation, and quarantine.
• Serve as a customer service liaison, providing information to visitors.
• Participate in professional networking, public relations, media contacts, and fundraising activities.
• Complete daily record keeping.
• Cover freshwater fish, reptile, amphibian and invertebrate exhibits when needed.
• Other duties assigned by the Area Supervisor.

Animal Care Responsibilities

Requires standing, walking on uneven terrain, climbing, and manual dexterity in use of tools and equipment. Employees will work in various weather conditions (heat, cold, snow, wind, rain), in confined spaces, and will handle venomous and dangerous animals. Exposure to noise from equipment is common.

Physical Requirements

• Ascend/descend ladders, stairs, and scaffolding regularly.
• Move in tight and confined spaces.
• Stand or sit for prolonged periods.
• Move to accomplish tasks or between work sites.
• Lift up to 50 lb in all directions.
• Operate machinery, power tools, motor vehicles, and heavy equipment.

Required Education and Experience

• Minimum of 4 years’ experience or a degree.
• 2 years of paid experience in the zoo field preferred.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office.

Additional Eligibility Requirements

• Insurable to drive a zoo vehicle.
• Ability to maintain work hours that meet the zoo’s needs.
• Ability to operate skid loaders, trailers, and large vehicles.
• Maintain calm and act professionally in emergencies and guest interactions.

Licenses/Certifications

• SCUBA certification (PADI, NAUI, or other recognized organization).

Other Duties

Job duties may change at any time with or without notice.

Affirmative Action/EEO Statement

Blank Park Zoo is an equal opportunity employer and gives employment and promotional consideration without regard to race, color, sex, religion, age, disability, disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam era, and any other protected class as required by local, state, or federal law. We seek applicants for employment who are dedicated, hardworking, and seek fulfilling employment. In return Blank Park Zoo offers competitive income, benefits, and an excellent working environment.