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Aquarium Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Roto-Group-LLC

Exhibit Design Director

Dublin, OH · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Roto is seeking an experienced Design Director to lead multidisciplinary teams in the design and development of museums, aquariums, zoos, science centers, cultural attractions, and other experience ...

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Systems Operator I

Monterey, CA

$29.86 - $36.54/hr

At the Monterey Bay Aquarium, we are passionate about creating an inclusive workplace that ... Experience in plumbing and electrical design, assembly, and maintenance * Experience working with ...

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Systems Operator I

Monterey, CA · On-site

$29.86 - $36.54/hr

At the Monterey Bay Aquarium, we are passionate about creating an inclusive workplace that ... Experience in plumbing and electrical design, assembly, and maintenance * Experience working with ...

New England Aquarium

Career Pathways Specialist

Boston, MA · On-site

$26.99 - $27/hr

The Specialist will also collaborate to design and deliver learning opportunities and engagement ... Housed within the Talent & Culture division of New England Aquarium, this role reports to the ...

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Showing results 21-40

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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 Aug 18, 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?

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.

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 aquarium design, 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.

Can I work at an aquarium with no experience?

Aquarium design jobs typically require some knowledge of aquatic systems, engineering, or related skills, but entry-level positions may be available for those with little experience. Training is often provided on the job, and relevant certifications or a background in biology or environmental science can improve chances of employment. Basic skills in maintenance, safety procedures, and teamwork are also valuable for starting in this field.

How do you become an aquarium designer?

To become an aquarium designer, you typically need a background in interior design, architecture, or marine biology, along with skills in CAD software and knowledge of aquatic systems. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in aquarium or exhibit design can also be helpful. Certifications in related fields or specialized training in aquatic environments can enhance job prospects.

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 experience in 3D modeling or aquatic systems may earn higher salaries, especially in commercial or high-end residential projects.

What kind of jobs can you get at an aquarium?

Aquarium jobs include roles such as aquarist, marine biologist, exhibit technician, and education specialist. These positions often require knowledge of aquatic life, maintenance skills, and sometimes certifications in animal care or safety procedures. Staff may work in animal care, exhibit design, education, or facility maintenance.
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What cities are hiring for Aquarium Design jobs?

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What are the most commonly searched types of Aquarium Design jobs?

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What states have the most Aquarium Design jobs?

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Aquarium Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aquarium Design job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $76,321 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

Temp Animal Care Specialist - Galleries

Shedd Aquarium

Chicago, IL • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time, Temporary

Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Shedd Aquarium rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

TITLE: Temporary Animal Care Specialist, Galleries Team
DEPARTMENT: Aquarium Team
REPORTS TO: Manager of Freshwater Habitats
STATUS: Full-time, Temp, Non-Exempt
DURATION: 5 Months
PAY RATE: $20.00/hour
POSITION OVERVIEW: Shedd Aquarium illustrates a commitment to optimal animal care and welfare to facilitate impactful public engagement with wildlife. Our animals first approach has a foundation that individuals and groups of animals can exhibit natural behaviors encouraged through complex environmental design, innovative behavioral training, and enrichment.
The Animal Care Specialist, Galleries team reports to the Manager of Freshwater Habitats and performs the daily husbandry of Shedd Aquariums animal collection, with a specific focus on tropical and temperate freshwater fishes, temperate marine animals, and Amazonian semi-aquatic and terrestrial species. This role also participates in the care of other animals under the department's responsible role as needed. The Animal Care Specialist, Galleries team will assume coverage responsibility for habitats and animals assigned to them, which may include tropical and temperate fish and invertebrates, both marine and freshwater. As well as reptiles, amphibians and birds.
This position works closely with their Manager and the rest of their team - along with Animal Health, Environmental Quality, and Facilities - to ensure the smooth and effective operations involving animals and habitats, especially as they relate to husbandry and welfare. This position works cooperatively with the animal care management teams to ensure compliance with all accreditation and regulatory requirements for departmental operations.
Animal Care Specialists are entry-level and just beginning to learn animal operations in the Animal Care and Science Division. They will assist Aquarists, Senior Aquarists, and Managers with inter-departmental productivity and begin participation in strategies to meet institutional objectives and initiatives requiring support of the Animal Care Department.
TIME COMMITMENT/SCHEDULE: Thursday - Monday, 7:00 am - 3:30 pm
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
  • Demonstrates commitment to Shedd's vision, mission, and values.
  • Achieves goals and objectives assigned for short- and long-term operations.
  • Learns to maintain good animal records in accordance with Aquarium Team standards and as directed by Manager, including the use of TRACKs animal record keeping software.
  • Prepares diets and feeds animals to meet their nutritional requirements as assigned.
  • Applies and records enrichment for animals to meet their psychological requirements as assigned.
  • Maintains front of house habitats at an inspection level of readiness.
  • Maintains back of house areas and habitats at an inspection level of readiness.
  • Works proactively with Animal Health to provide optimal animal care, assessment, and treatment as needed.
  • Assists in animal treatments and procedures as required.
  • Assists with animal transports between onsite and offsite buildings and helps maintain all transport equipment.
  • Identifies major maintenance/repair problems in any section and reports through their manager.
  • Provides timely communication to manager and covered staff members.
  • Maintains awareness and communication expectations by checking email daily along with any additional platforms used by the Animal Care departments.
  • Maintains daily animal observations, records, and reports any abnormal behavior or appearance.
  • Works effectively with Aquarium Leadership Team to achieve strategic goals and objectives of the Animal Care and Science Division.
  • Learns all the primary animal groups cared for by the Aquarium team.
  • Learns proper animal training, enrichment, and nutrition for animals.
  • Provides support for coworkers in their responsible roles as needed.
  • Maintains legal compliance measures such as tracking of respirator use (if applicable), adherence to OSHA standards, etc.
  • Participates in 1-on-1, team meetings, department meetings, division meetings, and One Shedd meetings.
  • Participates in Shedd's DEAI objectives.
  • Works with other divisions as assigned to meet strategic objectives.
  • Assists in the continuous development and implementation of animal care and sustainability innovations.
  • Responsible for the overall husbandry of Galleries systems, including lighting, flow, water quality, and animal condition.
  • Ensures animals throughout the facility are kept to Shedd Aquarium's standards of wellbeing and maintain good body condition
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS: The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
Education: Minimum of a bachelor's degree in marine sciences, biology, zoology, or related field (or demonstrated comparable knowledge)
Experience:
  • 1+ years of experience caring for aquatic and terrestrial animals
  • Knowledge of water chemistry and quality as they pertain to living marine systems preferred.
  • Knowledge of proper animal care, training, and enrichment preferred.
  • Knowledge of collection planning processes preferred.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs, including Outlook, Word, Excel, SharePoint, and PowerPoint.
  • Ability to learn other business operation software as assigned, including the animal management software TRACKs.

Certifications:
  • Must possess a valid driver's license or can obtain one within 6 months from the start of employment.

Physical Readiness:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job including while wearing dive gear.
  • Lift up to 40 pounds
  • Sit
  • Stand
  • Stoop
  • Kneel
  • Walk
  • Swim
  • Hear

Working Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
This person may be exposed to:
  • Water
  • Heat
  • Cold
  • Hazardous Chemicals
  • Low noise
  • Moderate Noise
  • Loud Noise
BENEFITS OF WORKING AT SHEDD: We offer competitive compensation packages and opportunities for professional growth within our organization.
  • Accrued Paid Time Off
  • 401(k)
  • Discounted Parking and Public Transit Subsidies
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Wellness program
  • Employee discounts
  • Employee Tickets
Reasonable Accommodations:
Shedd Aquarium is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need reasonable accommodations for any part of the employment process, please email us at jobs@sheddaquarium.org.
We strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ community, veterans and active duty military, parents, individuals with disabilities, and individuals from all cultural backgrounds to apply. Shedd Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team.

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