Sr Aquarist

Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation

Sr Aquarist

As the Sr Aquarist, you are responsible for two large freshwater aquariums and invertebrate, amphibian and reptile exhibits at four separate Nature Centers. Maintaining the life support and safety of the collections at four centers requires an independent individual who can appropriately schedule their time, be a liaison to each center's animal care staff, and make decisions for the well-being of the animals without reliance of supervision. Since animals are unpredictable, you must be able to accommodate an "on-call" schedule for emergencies. You'll serve as the Lead in all things Animal Care including:

• Provide exceptional care to all assigned animals and exhibits including daily cleaning, water quality, maintenance, diving, diet preparation and feeding, and health assessments.

• Manage the collection as a whole including acquisitions, dispositions and population management.

• Maintain public display exhibits and back-of-house areas to the highest quality standards.

• Work with the veterinary team to maintain high animal health standards including participating in procedures and necropsies.

• Maintain current up to date knowledge on biology, ecology and husbandry of all animals within their care.

• Research care and dietary needs of new or incoming plants and animals.

• Ensure care of exhibit life support systems, including routine preventative maintenance on equipment.

• Direct the development and implementation of husbandry procedures, techniques and practices in an Animal Care Manual.

• Determine and make budgetary recommendations as to annual animal care budget for equipment, maintenance and diets

• Maintain appropriate written and computerized animal care records including state permits.

• Mentor assigned departmental staff, volunteers or interns.

• Ensure all husbandry areas are kept clean, organized and hazard free.

• Respond to emergency calls.

• Assist with design, fabrication and install of new animal enclosures and exhibits.

• Participate in related education, Public Relations and membership programs including facility tours.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Experience: Four (4) years of experience with fish and invertebrates with strong background in reptiles and amphibian husbandry, preferably in an AZA accredited aquarium or zoo setting.

Education: Bachelor's degree in biology or related science.

Combination of relevant experience and relevant education accepted?: Yes

Licenses/Certifications: Requires a North Carolina or South Carolina Driver's License and County Driving Privileges; Must possess a valid open water dive certification (PADI, SSI, NAUI).

Submit the application using the information provided on the original job listing located on AZA.org.

Salary

Hiring Range: $52,132.00/yr - $68,423.25/yr

How to Apply

Click here to apply directly on the Mecklenburg County Career Website.

Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation

Charlotte, NC 28216

Visit our website