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Reptile Aquarist

Norwalk, Connecticut

ORGANIZATION BACKGROUND 

The mission of The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk is to ignite a connection to Long Island Sound and the ocean to enrich the lives of all people and inspire action to protect our blue planet. For more than 35 years, the Aquarium has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of Norwalk and the region. The second largest family attraction in Connecticut, and 50 miles from New York City, the Aquarium historically hosts nearly 500,000 guests annually. Its primary exhibits take guests on a voyage from the shallow salt marshes and estuaries to the depths of the Long Island Sound and the ocean beyond, culminating with habitats for sharks and harbor seals. Altogether, the Aquarium is home to over 8,000 animals and 285 species in 75 exhibits. A new 4D Theater offers a unique sensory film experience for guests. Its education programs introduce nearly 54,000 students, campers and scouts to marine and STEM education. The Aquarium is recognized as a top aquarium in the nation and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. It is an active participant in the local and regional community. The strength of the Aquarium is its 60 full-time staff, and part-time and seasonal staff, in addition to volunteers who contribute over 19,000 hours annually.  

Position Overview:

The Reptile Aquarist is responsible for living specimens and life support systems required for their maintenance.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Maintains all reptile, bird and ambassador aquariums/terrariums and related life support systems.
  • Provides disease recognition, and administers treatment for all specimens.
  • Performs water quality analysis.
  • Assists with quarantining new animals.
  • Participates in daily animal presentations, involving handling a variety of animals and speaking to the public on a microphone.
  • Participates in the collection of animals from Long Island Sound and other locations for display in Aquarium tanks.
  • Training and conditioning animals, diet prep.
  • Documents and communicates observations.
  • This position will require the individual to work weekends and holidays, and to travel for extended periods of time for outreach or to perform collecting duties.
  • Other duties as assigned.

 Minimum Qualifications:

  • Prefer four-year degree in marine biology, biology, zoology or related field OR
  • A two-year degree (A.S./A.A.S.) in a relevant field plus a minimum of two years’ experience in a public zoo or aquarium husbandry/operations position may be substituted for formal education.
  • Previous experience with public speaking, preferably while working with ambassador animals.
  • Basic knowledge of exotic animal care, including but not limited to: Insects and aquatic invertebrates, small mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians, and fish.
  • Basic knowledge of the operation and maintenance of terrestrial and aquatic life support systems, including experience with water quality testing.
  • General knowledge of laboratory equipment, operating procedures and PPE.
  • Strong command of the English language, both written and verbal.
  • Able to lift a minimum of 60 pounds.
  • Able to negotiate stairs, climb high obstacles and maneuver easily in behind-the-scenes areas.
  • Able to negotiate various field conditions.
  • Able to work standing up for extended periods of time.
  • Valid driver’s license required.
  • SCUBA certification and collection experience preferred.
  • Able to work weekends and holidays.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. 

The Maritime Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer with a commitment to diversity. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply.

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