Senior Aquarist - Ambassador Animals

The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, Inc. Senior Aquarist - Ambassador Animals ORGANIZATION BACKGROUND The mission of The Maritime Aquarium is to inspire people of all ages to appreciate and protect the Long Island Sound ecosystem and the global environment through living exhibits, marine science and environmental education. For more than 33 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 nearly 7,000 animals and over 360 species in 75 exhibits. A new 4D Theater offers a unique sensory film experience for guests. Its education programs introduce approximately 80,000 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 nearly 300 volunteers, which contribute 28,000 hours annually. While the pandemic challenged the Aquarium in profound ways, the team's resilience and creativity led to new ways to connect with the community, and renewed optimism for the future. The Senior Aquarist for Ambassador Animals is responsible for the reptile, amphibian, bird, and small mammal collection, as well as animal use in educational programming and public presentations. This position supervises a team of aquarists in their husbandry duties and will coordinate closely with veterinarians, life support staff, and other departments to ensure optimal care and welfare of these species. Minimum Qualifications * Four-year degree (B.S. or B.A.) in biology, zoology, marine biology, or related field. * Minimum of five years husbandry experience with reptiles, amphibians, small mammals and birds in a public aquarium, zoo, or museum setting. Prior experience in an AZA Accredited facility preferred. * Prior experience with program/ambassador animals used in public demonstrations. * Advanced knowledge of the operation and maintenance of aquatic and terrestrial and life support systems, including experience with water quality testing. * 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 various behind the scenes areas. * Able to negotiate various field conditions. * Able to work standing up for extended periods of time. * Valid license required with a clean driving record. * SCUBA certification and field collection experience preferred. Essential Job Functions * Supervises a team of Aquarists, executing duties such as scheduling, performance assessments, and ordering department supplies. * Oversees collection of reptiles, amphibians, small mammals and birds, including their husbandry, exhibit maintenance, and life support systems. * Responsible for administering animal diets and maintaining inventory of dietary items and supplies including live and frozen animals, produce, and dietary supplements. * Responsible for assessing animal condition, identifying diseases and administering treatments as prescribed by the veterinarian * Coordinates with veterinarians to perform routine diagnostics (fecal flotations, chytrid screening, bloodwork, et cetera). * Oversees the husbandry of all reptile, amphibian, small mammal and bird exhibits and enclosures as well as any fish that may be present within those exhibits. * Trains staff (including educators, docents, and interns) on the proper handling of ambassador animals for public presentations. * Keeps logs of animal use in public presentations and ensures adequate rotation of animals and sufficient rest periods. * Maintains accurate records, and oversees behavioral management via conditioning and environmental enrichment as appropriate for various taxa. * Works with SSP programs as applicable, oversees amphibian and reptile breeding. * Assists in exhibit development and construction. * Travel offsite for programs, presentations, and the accession/deaccession of animals * Performs water quality analysis, and makes adjustments. * Documents and communicates observations. * Able to work weekends and holidays and travel for extended periods of time to perform collecting duties. * Maintains a variety of collecting equipment. * Performs other tasks as assigned. 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. Perks Excellent benefits How to Apply Please send a cover letter and resume to Rachel Stein rstein@maritimeaquarium.org and Rosemarie Lombardi rlombardi@maritimeaquarium.org and put Senior Aquarist in the subject line of your email. The Maritime Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer with a commitment to diversity. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply. The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, Inc. 10 North Water Street South Norwalk, CT 06854 Visit our website Like us on Facebook

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