Aquarist Position Available In Barnstable, Massachusetts

Aquarist A.I.S. Inc. Woods Hole, Massachusetts Job Type Permanent
Salary Negotiable
Deadline Sep 30, 2025
Experience 2 – 6 years A.I.S., Inc. (AIS) is a national scientific services firm supporting maritime activities requiring certification of compliance with environmental regulations as well as collecting data for use by Federal, State, Municipal, and other government agencies along the US coastline. AIS is seeking an Aquarist to support the Northeast Fisheries Science Center’s Woods Hole Science Aquarium.

Primary Function:

The selected candidate will lead daily marine animal care and life support system operations, ensuring high standards of animal health, welfare, and environmental quality. The Aquarist will also support training, public education, and outreach activities, contributing to the Center’s mission of promoting ocean literacy and scientific awareness. This position requires schedule flexibility, including weekend and holiday availability, and may involve occasional regional travel.

Duties/Responsibilities:

Deliver animal husbandry services including feeding, care, and health monitoring using NEFSC protocols
Conduct regular inspections of animal habitats and water quality; remedy deficiencies
Operate and maintain life support systems, ensuring functionality and cleanliness
Assist in animal enrichment activities and administer medication as directed
Provide training to staff and volunteers on animal care standards
Maintain records on animal health, life support maintenance, and staff activities
Support veterinary rounds and medical procedures
Execute acquisition and dispensation plans for the animal collection
Participate in visitor services including tours, educational presentations, and special events
Monitor facility issues related to animal health and visitor safety
Occasionally work weekends, holidays, and flexible hours as needed
Travel within the region for aquarium-related tasks

Compensation:

 Candidates will be paid an hourly rate to be negotiated and total compensation will vary depending on candidates’ depth of experience. This is a full-time position. AIS benefits package includes health and dental insurance, vacation, sick and holiday benefits.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology, Zoology, Biology, or a related field
Minimum 4 years of full-time experience in animal care, with at least 2 years in marine animal husbandry and aquarium system maintenance
Knowledge and hands-on experience in aquatic life support systems
Ability to monitor and improve habitat quality and animal health standards
Competence in administering medications and assisting with veterinary care
Strong organizational and communication skills
Valid driver’s license and ability to operate a government vehicle
Flexibility to work weekends, holidays, and occasional overtime
Comfortable working in wet, cool environments with slippery surfaces

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in public presentations and working with marine mammals

Travel:

Reimbursed at an hourly rate along with compensation for miles accrued on a personal vehicle as well as per diem at the specified Government rate.

Location:

166 Water St, Woods Hole, Ma, 02543