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Aquarist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ripley Entertainment Inc

Aquarist

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$17.30/hr

Aquarist Ripley Entertainment is seeking applications for the position of Aquarist for our Buffalo Marine Science Research Center. The Marine Science Research Center is a quarantine facility for the ...

Ripley Entertainment Inc

Aquarist I

Myrtle Beach, SC · On-site

$36K/yr

The Aquarist is responsible for the performance of all husbandry duties of the aquarium, including the set-up, maintenance, operation, care and wellbeing of animals and exhibits, holding tanks and ...

Liberty Science Center

Aquarist

Jersey City, NJ · On-site

$47K - $52K/yr

The Role Aquarists at Liberty Science Center are responsible for the ongoing care and exhibition of the live animal population. They must implement professional husbandry protocols in regards to ...

Nu Aqua LLC

Be Seen First

Aquarist

Orland Park, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Nu Aqua is an online aquarium shop specializing in fully quarantined freshwater fish, plants and invertebrates and we are seeking an Aquarist to join our team! You will be responsible for the overall ...

National Aquarium

Aquarist Jellies

Baltimore, MD · On-site

Aquarist- Jellies Posting Date: July 2026 Job Department: Animal Care and Welfare Schedule: Full Time Job Type: On-site Location: National Aquarium Pier 3 501 E Pratt St Baltimore, MD 21202 ...

Merlin Entertainments

Aquarist

Concord, NC

$17.20/hr

Aquarist - SeaLife Charlotte Responsibilities: * Create unforgettable guest experiences by engaging visitors and sharing your passion for aquatic life. * Provide top-notch animal care by supporting ...

SEA LIFE

Aquarist

Concord, NC

$17.20/hr

What you'll bring to the team Aquarist - SeaLife Charlotte Responsibilities: * Create unforgettable guest experiences by engaging visitors and sharing your passion for aquatic life. * Provide top ...

SEA LIFE

Aquarist

Concord, NC · On-site

$17.20/hr

What you'll bring to the team Aquarist - SeaLife Charlotte Responsibilities: * Create unforgettable guest experiences by engaging visitors and sharing your passion for aquatic life. * Provide top ...

Loggerhead Marinelife Center

Aquarist 1

Juno Beach, FL · On-site

The aquarist works collaboratively throughout LMC in a creative environment and contributes to the efficient operation of the department. This position works a schedule set by the supervisor and may ...

Loggerhead Marinelife Center

Aquarist 1

Juno Beach, FL · On-site

The aquarist works collaboratively throughout LMC in a creative environment and contributes to the efficient operation of the department. This position works a schedule set by the supervisor and may ...

Bass Pro Shops

Aquarist

Sayreville, NJ · On-site

$23 - $25.75/hr

The aquarist will provide husbandry care for the animals housed at Bass Pro Store and executes related work to maintain the exhibits. SCUBA dives to clean aquariums, performs scheduled fish feeding ...

Audubon Institute

Aquarist

New Orleans, LA · On-site

Keeper Aquarist - AAC Department: Husbandry Reports To: Assistant Curator of Aquatic Center Location: Audubon Aquatic Center (AAC) FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Position Type: Full-Time Who We Are Audubon ...

The Maritime Aquarium

Aquarist I - Jellies

Norwalk, CT · On-site

$21.13/hr

The Aquarist at The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk is responsible for living specimens and maintaining their life support systems. This is an non-exempt role, hourly pay of $21.13. ESSENTIAL JOB ...

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How much do aquarist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for aquarist in the United States is $15.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do you do as an aquarist?

An aquarist is responsible for maintaining aquatic environments, including cleaning tanks, monitoring water quality, and caring for marine or freshwater animals. They often perform tasks such as feeding animals, repairing equipment, and ensuring the health of the aquatic life, using tools like water testing kits and following safety protocols. Aquarists typically work in aquariums, zoos, or research facilities and may need relevant certifications or training in marine biology or animal care.

What biology jobs pay over $100k?

Aquarists typically do not earn over $100,000 annually; higher salaries in biology-related fields often come from roles such as marine biologists, biological scientists, or research managers, especially with advanced degrees and experience. These positions may involve conducting research, managing projects, or working in specialized environments like laboratories or aquariums with advanced certifications.

What does a typical workday look like for an Aquarist?

A typical day for an Aquarist involves monitoring the health and behavior of aquatic animals, maintaining exhibit tanks, ensuring proper water quality, and preparing specialized diets for various species. Aquarists often collaborate with other animal care staff, veterinarians, and educators to support the overall well-being of marine and freshwater inhabitants. The role may also include cleaning tanks, conducting educational presentations, and participating in exhibit design or conservation initiatives. Work schedules can involve weekends or holidays, but the variety and hands-on nature of the job make it rewarding for those passionate about aquatic life.

What is an Aquarist job?

An aquarist is responsible for the care and maintenance of aquatic animals and their habitats, typically in aquariums, marine parks, or research facilities. Their duties include feeding, monitoring water quality, cleaning tanks, and ensuring the health and well-being of fish, invertebrates, and other marine life. They may also assist in breeding programs, conservation efforts, and educating the public about aquatic ecosystems. Aquarists often work closely with veterinarians, marine biologists, and other specialists to maintain optimal living conditions for the animals. The job requires knowledge of marine biology, water chemistry, and animal behavior, along with hands-on experience.

Is an aquarist a marine biologist?

An aquarist is a professional who cares for aquatic animals and maintains aquariums, often working in zoos, aquariums, or research facilities. While both roles involve working with marine life, a marine biologist typically conducts scientific research and studies marine ecosystems, whereas an aquarist focuses on animal care and habitat maintenance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Aquarist position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aquarist, you need a solid understanding of aquatic biology, animal husbandry, and water chemistry, often supported by a degree in marine biology, zoology, or a related field. Familiarity with water quality testing kits, filtration systems, and aquarium maintenance tools is essential, and certifications in scuba diving or animal care are advantageous. Attention to detail, strong observational skills, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure the health and well-being of aquatic species while maintaining safe, attractive, and educational aquarium exhibits.

How much do aquarists make in the US?

Aquarists in the US typically earn between $25,000 and $45,000 annually, with the median around $35,000. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and the type of employer, such as aquariums, research facilities, or private collections.
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Aquarist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aquarist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 70% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $31,289 per year, or $15 per hour.
Aquarist

Aquarist

Ripley Entertainment Inc

Buffalo, NY • On-site

$17.30/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Ripley Entertainment rating

4.3

Company rating: 4.3 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 20 rated visitor attractions

Job description

Aquarist

Ripley Entertainment is seeking applications for the position of Aquarist for our Buffalo Marine Science Research Center.

Job Description

The Marine Science Research Center is a quarantine facility for the Company’s 3 Aquariums and is located in Buffalo, New York. We are seeking a motivated, team-oriented individual who will be responsible for a variety of marine and freshwater aquarium life support systems and their associated animals. Will be working in a warehouse setting with temperature extremes.

Qualifications

Reporting to the Senior Aquarist and Curator, the successful candidate will have a four-year degree in Biology, Zoology, related field, or equivalent experience. Experience maintaining fishes and invertebrates in closed systems is desired. The candidate will be able to work weekends and be “on call” 24 hours per day. Candidates must be able to obtain a valid New York driver’s license within 30 days of hire and lift 60 lbs. SCUBA certification preferred.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Responsibilities will include care and maintenance of large and small marine and freshwater aquaria, including prevention and treatment of diseases, and detailed record keeping. Snorkeling and/or diving in exhibits may be required.

Duties will include monitoring water chemistry, maintaining exhibits, diagnosing and treats fish diseases, prepping and feeding animal diets, cleaning back areas, etc. Other duties as assigned.

Please remember that due to the nature of our business, we work when others play in a building that operates 365 days of the year! You will be expected to be regularly available to work any shift during, before or after the normal hours of operation.

Thank you for your interest in Ripley’s Aquarium. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted further.

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