Aquarist 1

Aquarist I

Job Title: Aquarist I
Department: Animal Care
Reports To: Director of Animal Care
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: Starting at $16.84/hour
Location: Electric City Aquarium, Scranton, PA

Position Summary

Aquarist I is a skilled aquatics care role responsible for daily husbandry, system maintenance, and animal observation for both freshwater and saltwater species. This position is ideal for candidates with foundational aquarium experience who are ready to expand their skills in water quality, exhibit management, and guest education.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

- Conduct routine care and feeding of marine and freshwater fish, stingrays, sharks invertebrates, and turtles

- Monitor animal health and behavior, reporting changes to senior staff

- Maintain and troubleshoot basic to intermediate life support systems (pumps, filtration, UV, heaters)

- Assist in water quality testing and adjustment

- Maintain detailed records of animal care, feeding, and water parameters

- Participate in exhibit maintenance, cleaning, and improvement projects

- Support veterinary procedures and quarantine operations under direction

- Use hookah system for underwater cleaning (training provided)

- Engage with guests through scheduled talks and informal education

- Uphold animal welfare and safety standards

Qualifications

Education/Experience

- Associate degree in biology, zoology, marine science, or equivalent work experience

- Minimum 1 year experience in animal care or aquarium work preferred

Skills & Abilities

- Familiarity with basic aquatic system operations and animal husbandry

- Reliable and detail-oriented with strong observational skills

- Comfortable with both technical and hands-on work

- Friendly and confident with public speaking and guest interaction

-Understands basic water chemistry

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

- Must be able to lift 50 lbs and perform physical labor

- Comfortable working in warm, humid, and aquatic environments

- Must be able to climb, crouch, and stand for long periods

Work Schedule

- Full-time, includes weekends and holidays

- Flexibility for emergency animal care is preferred

FLSA Classification

This position is Non-Exempt and eligible for overtime under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Electric City Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome all applicants and foster an inclusive workplace.

Disclaimer

This job description outlines general nature and level of work. It does not list every task or responsibility. Employment is at-will.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $16.84 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Relocation assistance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person