Zoological Specialist, Senior 1 (Aquarist)

At SeaWorld, we're passionate about caring for animals. In fact, we've already rescued over 40,000 animals (and counting!). And we can save you from being stuck in just another job. Join us and help bring joy, excitement, and lasting memories to people from around the world. We're seeking enthusiastic, dedicated, and hard-working individuals to become our Ambassadors. Join us and play an important part on our incredible team!

What you get to do:

You will maintain husbandry of fish and other aquatic life in aquarium exhibits, including preparing food and feeding animals. This role will involve providing proper aquarium maintenance, such as algae removal, display diving, aquarium decorating, preventive maintenance, pump replacement, etc. You will:

• Perform basic water quality testing, chemical additions, salt water make up, pH and temperature testing

• Utilize knowledge of aquarium husbandry techniques, including taxonomy, record keeping, aquarium filtration, aquarium theory, and emergency procedures

• Monitor aquarium health-related issues, including parasitic identification/treatment, and perform area quarantine procedures as needed

• Assist with animal collecting and repairs to aquarium filtration systems

• Answer guest questions concerning aquarium animals

• Provide animal transports, in park and out of park

• Follows proper park safety protocols and performs safety checks

• Communicate professionally and effectively with Ambassadors, vendors and our guests

• Perform other duties as assigned

As a 365 day/year operation, candidates are expected to provide flexible availability to support year-round operating needs. This may include, but is not limited to, working opening, mid-day and closing shifts during peak and non-peak seasons, as well as weekends and holidays.

What it takes to succeed:

• At least 18 years of age

• High school diploma

• Have 18 or more months of experience in a similar public aquarium setting

• Knowledge of food preparation and feeding techniques

• Bachelor’s degree in marine science or related field preferred

• SCUBA certification

• Valid driver’s License

• Strong communication, math, guest service and multitasking skills

What else is important:

• Able to lift, push, pull and/or carry up to 50 lbs.

• Position engages in extensive walking and standing throughout entire work shift and climb/ascend heights, if needed

• You will perform the following physical activities: kneeling, squatting, bend floor-to waist/waist-to-overhead, reach overhead, simple grasp and fine hand manipulation tasks (use of tools/keyboard/writing)

• Able to work indoors and outdoors, in varying weather, to include extreme heat

• Position may be exposed to fumes, dust, odors and cold/heat temperature extremes

• Will perform cleaning duties; including use of cleaning chemicals

• Will work flexible schedules/hours based on business needs, to include opening, mid-, and closing shifts; nights, weekends, and holidays

• Flexible in work locations as placement will depend on business needs and career development opportunities

Position level and Compensation rate will be contingent on professional zoological animal care experience at an AZA or equivalent facility. 

Level is determined through review and assessment of applicable experience by Zoo leadership.  Experience required for each level is detailed below:

• Associate: Entry level position
• Specialist: Minimum of 12 months (2,080 hours) professional zoological experience
• Senior: Minimum of 2.5 years (5,200 hours) professional zoological experience
• Senior 1: Minimum of 5 years (10,400 hours) professional zoological experience

The perks of the position:

• Paid Time Off
• Complimentary Park Tickets and Passes
• Park Discounts on Food and Merchandise
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401K Retirement plan
• Voluntary Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Disability Benefits
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Dependent and Health Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Legal Assistance Plan

EEO Employer:

SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, PREGNANCY, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR COVERED VETERAN STATUS.