Job opportunities

Junior Aquarist

This role is currently being offered on a 6 month temporary basis with the posibility of extension to permanent position on completion

This is a unique opportunity for willing candidates to come and help us take care of our extensive and diverse collection. Including Fish, Sharks, Reptiles, Penguins and Otters

Located in Portaferry, Northern Ireland.  We are a small privately-owned Aquarium & Seal Sanctuary. (supported by DAERA.)     

Reporting directly to the Head Keeper & General Manager, the Junior Aquarist will be responsible for all aspects of the day to day needs of the Aquariums livestock department.  You will be responsible for ensuring that the highest standards of wellbeing including health and presentation of all stock and exhibits.    

This is a practical “hands on” role and the successful candidate will always be expected to work as part of the team as needed to ensure the efficient and safe operation of the department. It is a role where you will be given the time and training required for progression and personal development. 

The role is ideal for someone who has a real willingness to learn and the patience to learn from their mistakes as they develop.  

Self-motivation is a key requirement for this role. 

Exploris Aquarium expects all employees to work as a team in a friendly and professional environment. During busy periods we will require all employees to contribute in other areas of the business to ensure a smooth and professional service is delivered. 

Responsibilities 

• Carry out feeding duties  

• Running aquarium tanks and systems  

• Maintain up to date tank displays  

• Monitoring of water quality and fish stock quality  

• Dealing with alarm issues of tanks that may arise during or after work   

• Develop and maintain education and conservation program  

• Carry out talks while performing duties  

• To ensure aquarium is cleaned daily and is maintained in a hygienic manner.  

• To observe fire, health and safety rules and procedures and to partake in fire and accident drills.  

• To ensure that all materials and equipment are not left in a hazardous state.  

• To wear protective clothing and eye protection when dealing with any chemicals or hazardous materials.  

• To immediately report any leaks, equipment failure or any other condition you would not deem normal.  

• To ensure stock control and rotation procedures are carried out where applicable. 

• Power washing of outdoor pools as required 

The above list is not exhaustive, and the role will include other duties not detailed here.

• The Trainee Aquarist/Keeper is expected to be available as necessary to ensure that the welfare and presentation of the collection(s) to visitors is always maintained to the highest standards.  

• No set hours are laid down for this position but in general terms a five-day working week will be required including bank holidays and weekend days on a rota basis.  A start time of 9.00am is required to enable the organization of staff and an early inspection of animals to take place and generally a finishing time of 5.00/6.30 pm will be required depending on the time of year.

Requirements

Essential:  

• Ability to work shift patterns to the needs of the business.  

• Ability to deal with the public comfortably and present information on a one to one and a group basis.  

• Someone who has the desire to learn and develop animal husbandry skills.  

• Proficient in Microsoft Office  

• Full UK Driving License  

• Someone willing to complete requires maintenance on Tanks & Enclosures e.g. Power washing, Display & Pipe work etc.  

Desirable: 

• Previous experience in a similar role  

• Experience in seal rehabilitation