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Aquarium Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Reliant Aquarium Design

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Aquarium Design, Fabrication and Installation Specialist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$67K - $90K/yr

Reliant Aquarium Design is seeking an experienced Aquarium Design, Fabrication & Installation Specialist to help create some of the most sophisticated custom aquarium systems in Southern California.

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Controls Engineer

Monterey, CA · On-site

$96K - $123K/yr

Under limited supervision, maintain and troubleshoot existing controls system, including panels, PLC Programs, HMIs and SCADA Front End, for the Monterey Bay Aquarium and aquarium buildings; design ...

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Controls Engineer

Monterey, CA · On-site

$96K - $123K/yr

Under limited supervision, maintain and troubleshoot existing controls system, including panels, PLC Programs, HMIs and SCADA Front End, for the Monterey Bay Aquarium and aquarium buildings; design ...

National Aquarium

Exhibit Tech- Australia

Baltimore, MD · On-site

... National Aquarium standards; participates in the acquisition/disposition, transport and acclimation of specimens; participates in the design and maintenance of exhibits and back-up enclosures ...

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Aquarium Design information

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$44.5K

$76.3K

$137K

How much do aquarium design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for aquarium design in the United States is $76,321.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $102,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Aquarium Design job?

An Aquarium Design job involves creating aesthetically pleasing and functional aquatic environments for homes, businesses, zoos, or public aquariums. Designers consider factors such as tank size, water filtration, lighting, aquascaping, and the needs of aquatic life. They work with clients to develop custom aquarium setups that support healthy ecosystems and complement interior spaces. Some professionals also incorporate advanced technology, such as automated water management and climate control systems.

Is it hard to become an aquarist?

Becoming an aquarist typically requires a background in marine biology, zoology, or related fields, along with hands-on experience in aquarium maintenance and animal care. Certifications in aquatic animal husbandry or related areas can improve job prospects, and the work often involves physical tasks and working in aquatic environments. The difficulty varies depending on education, experience, and the specific employer's requirements.

What are some typical challenges faced by aquarium designers on the job?

Aquarium designers often encounter challenges such as balancing aesthetic goals with the biological needs of aquatic life, managing complex filtration and lighting systems, and accommodating client preferences within realistic budgets. They also need to collaborate closely with architects, contractors, and marine biologists to ensure all technical and regulatory requirements are met. Problem-solving and adaptability are key when unexpected site or maintenance issues arise. Being prepared for these challenges helps ensure the success, sustainability, and safety of each aquarium project.

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

Excelling in Aquarium Design requires a blend of expertise in aquascaping, biological sciences, engineering principles, and proficiency in design software, often supported by a degree in marine biology, design, or a related field. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) tools, water filtration systems, and industry certifications such as aquatic technician or SCUBA certification are highly beneficial. Strong project management, creativity, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with clients and multidisciplinary teams. These combined abilities ensure functional, visually appealing aquarium installations that support aquatic health and client satisfaction.

How much do aquarium designers make?

Aquarium designers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Skilled designers with certifications and knowledge of aquatic systems can earn higher salaries, especially when working on large or commercial installations.

What is the highest paid designer job?

In the field of aquarium design, senior or lead aquarium designers typically earn the highest salaries, often supplemented by bonuses and project-based incentives. Advanced roles may require extensive experience, specialized skills in aquatic systems, and certifications, with salaries varying based on project complexity and employer size.

Are aquarium jobs hard to get?

Aquarium design jobs can be competitive, especially for entry-level positions, but having relevant skills such as knowledge of aquatic systems, design, and certifications can improve chances. Experience with tools like CAD and understanding of aquatic life requirements are often valued by employers.
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Aquarium Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aquarium Design job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $76,321 per year, or $36.7 per hour.
Aquarium Design, Fabrication and Installation Specialist

Aquarium Design, Fabrication and Installation Specialist

Reliant Aquarium Design

San Diego, CA • On-site

$67K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

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Job description

Reliant Aquarium Design is seeking an experienced Aquarium Design, Fabrication & Installation Specialist to help create some of the most sophisticated custom aquarium systems in Southern California.

This is not a traditional aquarium maintenance position.

We are looking for a builder. A problem solver. A technically minded individual who enjoys designing systems, fabricating components, installing equipment, and bringing ambitious ideas to life.

One week you may be designing a life support system for a luxury residential reef aquarium. The next week you may be programming a CNC router, fabricating custom components, installing a commercial aquarium system, troubleshooting a complex mechanical issue, or working with contractors to integrate a multi-thousand-gallon aquatic display into a custom home or business.

Our projects range from 100-gallon residential aquariums to custom systems exceeding 5,000 gallons. We have designed and installed reef aquariums, jellyfish exhibits, commercial displays, automated feeding systems, and highly customized life support systems for some of the most discerning clients in Southern California.

If you're looking for a position focused primarily on feeding fish, cleaning aquariums, aquascaping, or routine maintenance, this is not the right fit.

If you're excited by plumbing, fabrication, CNC equipment, CAD design, automation, construction, mechanical systems, and solving complex technical challenges, we'd like to talk with you.

About Reliant Aquarium Design

Reliant Aquarium Design is one of the premier custom aquarium design, installation, and maintenance companies in the United States.

Our reputation has been built on technical excellence, craftsmanship, attention to detail, and an obsession with building systems that are as beautiful behind the scenes as they are from the front viewing panel.

We work closely with homeowners, architects, interior designers, builders, and contractors to bring extraordinary aquatic environments to life. Every project is custom. Every project presents unique challenges. Every project requires creativity, technical skill, and craftsmanship.

As our company continues to grow, we are building the foundation of a dedicated Projects Department focused on design, fabrication, installation, and innovation. This position offers significant opportunity for long-term career growth and leadership for the right individual.

What You'll Be Doing

  • Design aquarium life support systems and equipment layouts
  • Create and modify CAD drawings and project documentation
  • Program and operate CNC equipment
  • Develop fabrication drawings and material takeoffs
  • Fabricate custom PVC, acrylic, wood, and related system components
  • Build plumbing assemblies, manifolds, filtration systems, sumps, overflow systems, and equipment installations
  • Install aquarium systems in residential and commercial environments
  • Coordinate with contractors, architects, designers, and other trades during project execution
  • Troubleshoot mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and operational issues
  • Perform major aquarium upgrades, renovations, and equipment replacements
  • Develop creative solutions to unique installation and engineering challenges
  • Assist in the development of new products, fabrication methods, automation systems, and custom equipment solutions
  • Support project planning, logistics, quality control, and documentation

Required Qualifications

  • Professional aquarium industry experience
  • Strong understanding of aquarium life support systems and equipment
  • Experience designing, fabricating, installing, or troubleshooting advanced aquarium systems CAD experience required
  • CNC programming and operation experience required
  • Strong mechanical aptitude
  • Strong understanding of plumbing, electrical systems, fabrication, and construction practices
  • Experience with PVC plumbing design and fabrication
  • Experience building, assembling, and troubleshooting complex mechanical systems
  • Experience operating fabrication equipment and power tools safely
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and construction plans
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record

Preferred Qualifications

  • SketchUp experience
  • Acrylic fabrication and solvent welding experience
  • Cabinetry, millwork, or woodworking experience
  • Mechanical engineering or engineering technology background
  • Commercial aquarium installation experience
  • Forklift certification
  • Experience coordinating with architects, contractors, and design professionals
  • Experience with automation, controls, 3D printing, or custom product development

Who This Position Is Ideal For

  • Experienced aquarium installers
  • Aquarium fabrication specialists
  • Public aquarium life support system technicians CAD and CNC professionals with extensive aquarium experience
  • Mechanical builders and technical problem-solvers who enjoy creating custom systems
  • Individuals who enjoy working with both their hands and their mind

Physical Requirements

This is a hands-on position requiring frequent standing, walking, lifting, bending, kneeling, climbing ladders, working in fabrication environments, operating equipment, and performing installation work at client locations. Candidates should be comfortable lifting equipment and materials, working in both shop and field environments, and spending a significant portion of their day actively building, fabricating, and installing systems.

Career Growth

The successful candidate will work directly with company ownership and play a key role in the continued growth of our custom projects division. As Reliant Aquarium Design continues to expand, this position has the potential to evolve into a leadership role responsible for overseeing fabrication, installation, project execution, and future project team development.

Compensation is dependent upon experience, qualifications, and demonstrated capability.

Pay: $32.00 - $50.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • Dental insurance
  • Employee discount
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement plan

Work Location: In person