Head Aquarist

Lead, oversee and participate in the more complex and difficult work of staff responsible for caring, observing and maintaining a variety of fish and aquatic life within the ABQ BioPark; provide responsible assistance to the Aquarium Curator; and to perform a variety of technical tasks relative to assigned areas of responsibility. Job descriptions are intended to present a general list of tasks/duties performed by employees within this job classification. Job Descriptions are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Essential functions may include but are not limited to the functions listed below. Must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation. Lead, plan, train and review the work of staff responsible for caring, observing and maintaining a variety of fish and aquatic life within the ABQ BioPark. Check water quality of aquariums and add appropriate chemicals; clean tanks by SCUBA diving; change water in tanks; prepare fish diets; feed fish. Plan, direct and participate in preparing and maintaining a variety of records regarding fish behaviors, medical treatments and other pertinent information. Train assigned employees in their areas of work including proper aquatic care methods, procedures and techniques. Verify the work of assigned employees for accuracy, proper work methods, techniques and compliance with applicable standards and specifications. Observe fish behavior; treat and medicate fish and aquatic life as needed; report any unusual fish behavior or possible diseases to appropriate supervisor. Make recommendations for change in location of fish and aquatic life habitat. Respond to public inquiries regarding aquarium habitats and fish behavior. Provide responsible assistance to the Assistant Curator.

SUPPLEMENTAL FUNCTIONS

Assist in the design and construction of new aquarium habitats. Perform related duties and responsibilities as required. Education and experience directly related to the minimum requirements below may be interchangeable on a year for year basis. Associate's degree from an accredited college or university in marine biology, biology, aquatic animal hubandry, or aquaculture; and Four (4) years of aquarium operations experience; and To include one (1) year of lead experience.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver's License or the ability to obtain within ninety (90) days from date of hire. Possession of a City Operator's Permit (COP) within 6 months from date of hire. Possession of a valid SCUBA diving certificate from an appropriate and recognized training agency within six (6) months from date of hire into position.

Environmental:

Indoor, outdoor and underwater environments; work with a variety of domestic, exotic, aquatic animals and animal waste; work on slippery or uneven surfaces; exposure to chemicals, noise, dust, heat, cold and inclement weather conditions.

Physical:

Ability to pass dive physical for SCUBA diving; basic eye-hand coordination; adequate manual dexterity; essential and supplemental functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for sitting, standing, bending, kneeling, pushing, pulling, and occasional heavy, moderate, or light lifting.