Job opportunities

Aquarist

We are looking for an experienced Aquarist to join our team at Tynemouth Aquarium, Tyne & Wear.

Join the team at our award winning Tynemouth aquarium, located on the North East coast home to an array of animals in over 40 naturally themed exhibits from around the world including the British Coast, the Mediterranean, coral reef and the tropical rainforest.

Job Description

You will be responsible for maintaining and developing displays and exhibits - promoting public education and awareness in relation to conservation and delivering a memorable and entertaining experience to visitors. This post is full time, with weekend shifts and will include weekends and bank holidays/school holiday periods.

You already have relevant experience in the visitor attractions sector working with marine fish and invertebrates and knowledge of aquarium life support systems. You have an infectious enthusiasm for creating stunning and innovative displays and keen to share knowledge with colleagues and guests.

Duties/ Responsibilities

• Experience in animal husbandry is essential including a main focus on aquatic animals – fish/sharks/reptiles/ seals and primates.
• A good working knowledge of aquarium life support systems is essential
• Practical knowledge of water quality management including testing parameters and how to review and act on results.
• This is a hands-on role therefore skills in pipework and maintenance of life support systems and pumps are beneficial
• Accurate oral and written communication skills
• Verbal communication skills and a willingness to communicate with people of all ages on a range of environmental and animal based topics
• Ability to keep accurate and up to date records to ensure quality animal management and welfare at or above industry standards

Required

• At least 1 years’ experience in an Aquarist role or similar
• A degree or equivalent in the relevant Biological Science
• Great customer service skills and a positive attitude
• Experience in Guest Speaking
• Detail orientated, strong organisational skills with the ability to handle different priorities across multiple areas.
• Experience in all aspects of animal husbandry is essential. This is a hand’s on role and will include caring for Primates and Harbour Seals as well as hundreds of species of marine life. Here at the Tynemouth Aquarium, we welcome your creative input into our displays. You have a unique opportunity to add your personal touch and ideas to our ever evolving exhibit

Desirable

Experience of working with harbour seals, and/or primates

Experience is tank construction and maintaining life support systems.

A full driving license