Hiring: Aquarist Company: Maymont Location: Richmond, VA Job Posted Time: 2026-09-03 11:06:43 About the job Experience: •Basic knowledge of electricity, plumbing and mechanical aspects of aquarium life support systems is preferred. •Knowledge of aquatic animal husbandry to include disease and parasite control, animal nutrition, animal breeding, animal behavior and animal training. •Additional skills and abilities preferred: experience in animal restraint and handling, use of operant conditioning techniques, use of hand and gardening tools, power tools, personal computer, microscope, first aid equipment. •Must be able to pass a pre-employment background check Required Skills: •Maintains health and appearance of all animals within the Robins Nature Center such as fish, amphibians, reptiles (including venomous), raptors and mammals. These duties include (but not limited to) making diets, feeding, cleaning, observation, enrichment and animal training using operant conditioning and positive reinforcement. •Maintains exhibit appearance by working independently, as well as with other animal care staff. •Maintains, troubleshoots and repairs life support systems (LSS). •Maintains daily records including (but not limited to) inventory, animal health and water quality data. •Educates and informs individuals and groups through answering questions, programs, guiding behind-the-scenes tours, teaching workshops, supervising interns, volunteers, and students. •Analyzes water samples for dissolved gases, nutrients, heavy metals, pH, salinity, temperature and medications to assure adequate water quality for animal health •Researches data to properly understand and maintain the animals within area of responsibility. •Participates in exhibit improvement, design and other planning. Qualifications: •Demonstrated capacity to work in inclement weather throughout the year. •Must be flexible in schedule availability; weekends and some holidays will be required. •Will be required to pass scheduled Basic First Aid and CPR employer-provided training. •Demonstrated capacity to work effectively with co-workers and Maymont visitors. •Minimum requirement: Associate’s degree in Zoo Animal Technology or equivalent accepted education and one year of professional experience in a public aquarium, zoo or related facility utilizing life support systems. •Bachelor’s degree in biology, ichthyology, marine science, zoology, or related natural science field is preferred with a good knowledge of native freshwater fauna. •SCUBA certification within six months employment. SCUBA certification prior to employment is preferred. •Valid driver’s license with reliable transportation to/from Maymont Interested candidates, please apply directly through the job posting on company's career page or try via AI auto apply on this platform. Don't miss this opportunity to join a forward-thinking team!