Junior Aquarist

BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums); Northern Ireland; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000

Job description

Exploris Aquarium

Northern Ireland Closing date for applications is: 19th Apr 2025

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, Otters, and Capybara.

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 Animal department. You will be responsible for ensuring that the highest standards of wellbeing, including health and presentation of all stock and exhibits, are maintained.

This is a practical “hands-on” role, and the successful candidate will always be expected to work as part of the team 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

1. Carry out feeding duties
2. Running aquarium tanks and systems
3. Maintain up-to-date tank displays
4. Monitoring of water quality and fish stock quality
5. Dealing with alarm issues of tanks that may arise during or after work
6. Develop and maintain education and conservation programs
7. Carry out talks while performing duties
8. Ensure the aquarium is cleaned daily and maintained in a hygienic manner
9. Observe fire, health, and safety rules and procedures and partake in fire and accident drills
10. Ensure that all materials and equipment are not left in a hazardous state
11. Wear protective clothing and eye protection when dealing with any chemicals or hazardous materials
12. Immediately report any leaks, equipment failure, or any other condition deemed abnormal
13. Ensure stock control and rotation procedures are carried out where applicable
14. Power wash outdoor pools as required
15. The above list is not exhaustive, and the role will include other duties not detailed here

The Junior Aquarist 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 9.00 am is required to enable the organization of staff and an early inspection of animals to take place, with a finishing time of 5.00/6.30 pm required depending on the time of year.

Requirements

1. Ability to work shift patterns to the needs of the business
2. Ability to deal with the public comfortably and present information on a one-to-one and group basis
3. Someone who has the desire to learn and develop animal husbandry skills

Interviews will be completed on a rolling basis, and the position may be filled before the closing date.