1

Aquarium Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WI ยท On-site

$80 - $100/hr

COST of Wisconsin, Inc. has a rare opportunity fora Director of Design to lead our design team and ... aquariums, family entertainment centers, golf courses, restaurants, retail spaces, and other ...

AV Technician II

Mystic, CT ยท On-site

$20.70 - $22.70/hr

The AV Technician II supports Mystic Aquarium's exhibits, live shows, and special events by ... AV Systems Design and Project Support * Evaluate and design AV systems for exhibits and live show ...

Learning Specialist

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$50K/yr

... Aquarium, in off-site locations, as well as in online environments. The Learning Specialist uses creativity, promising instructional practices, and evaluation data to design, implement, and ...

SVP Chief Mission Officer

Baltimore, MD ยท On-site

$200 - $250/hr

Develop and advance an industry-leading vision for animal care and welfare that supports the Aquarium's mission and vision, informs habitat design and animal population management, and exceeds ...

Aquarist I

Myrtle Beach, SC ยท On-site

$36K/yr

Aquarium Life support Systems (LSS) design, construction, operation and maintenance. * Live exhibit aesthetics design, construction and maintenance. * SCUBA certification highly desirable or ...

Design & Engineering Internship

Tampa, FL ยท On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Join ZooTampa's Design & Engineering team and gain hands-on experience supporting real construction ... The Zoo, accredited by Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), offers popular educational ...

Showing results 41-60

Aquarium Design information

See salary details

$44.5K

$76.3K

$137K

How much do aquarium design jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 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.
More about Aquarium Design jobs

What cities are hiring for Aquarium Design jobs?

Cities with the most Aquarium Design job openings:

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

The most popular types of Aquarium Design jobs are:

What states have the most Aquarium Design jobs?

States with the most job openings for Aquarium Design jobs include:

Infographic showing various Aquarium Design job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $76,321 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

Director of Design (Technical / Construction)

COST of Wisconsin, Inc.

WI โ€ข On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

COST of Wisconsin, Inc. has a rare opportunity fora Director of Design to lead our design team and guide the creative and technical direction of our projects. This handsโ€‘on leadership role is ideal requires someone who can balance design accuracy, creatively problem solve, meet deadlines, develop team members, and foster collaboration.

What Youโ€™ll Do
  • Lead, coach, and develop a team of approximately 3โ€“5 designers.
  • Assign priorities, manage workloads, and help keep design deliverables on schedule.
  • Review drawings, design packages, and submittals for accuracy, quality, constructability, and customer requirements.
  • Collaborate with multiple internal and external stakeholders.
  • Lead design meetings and improve designs, processes, and project outcomes.
  • Interpret sketches, schematics, written instructions, drawings, and other source materials.
  • Identify opportunities that improve cost efficiency, performance, and design execution.
  • Support hiring, onboarding, training, coaching, and development for the design team.
What You Offer
  • Associateโ€™s degree in drafting, design, architecture, or a related field.
  • 7+ years of design experience in commercial construction, architecture, structural design, or a related field.
  • 3+ years of team leadership experience.
  • Experience with resource planning, supplier coordination, budget management, workload management, and performance tracking.
  • Strong communication, organization, leadership, and problemโ€‘solving skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
  • Familiarity with technology such as AutoCAD, Revit, Adobe Creative Suite, Procore, Bluebeam, Rhino, AI tools, 3D design platforms, or other specialized software.
  • Experience in shotcrete, themed construction, specialty construction, or immersive environments is a plus.

COST of Wisconsin, Inc. creates award-winning themed construction for zoos, theme parks, casinos, resorts, museums, botanical gardens, aquariums, family entertainment centers, golf courses, restaurants, retail spaces, and other oneโ€‘ofโ€‘aโ€‘kind destinations nationwide.

#J-18808-Ljbffr