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Aquarium Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Georgia Aquarium

Major Gifts Officer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Represents Georgia Aquarium appropriately at miscellaneous community functions, networking and nurturing new and existing relationships. * Achieves annual revenue and other targets in areas of ...

Georgia Aquarium

Senior Trainer, Pinniped

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Trains pinniped collection in accordance with Georgia Aquarium's animal training protocols. Actively participates in the progression of animal training goals and standards. Develops behavior to ...

Georgia Aquarium

Maintenance Technician I

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Employee will work independently and as a team to maintain the Aquarium and Animal Care Facility (ACF). This includes front of house and back of house areas to insure a great experience for our ...

Georgia Aquarium

Trainer - Mammals & Birds

Atlanta, GA · On-site

This position is responsible for the daily care and behavioral conditioning of Georgia Aquarium's Mammal & Bird collection. The primary objectives and responsibilities are to play a primary role in ...

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All JobsAquarium JobsAquarium Jobs in Decatur, GA

Aquarium information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$27.3K

$85K

$93.7K

How much do aquarium jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for aquarium in Decatur, GA is $84,996.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,800.00 and $92,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aquarium worker?

Aquarium workers are professionals who care for aquatic animals and maintain the habitats within public or private aquariums. Their responsibilities include feeding fish and other marine life, monitoring water quality, cleaning tanks, and sometimes educating visitors about marine biology and conservation. They may also assist with breeding programs, animal health monitoring, and exhibit design to ensure the well-being of the animals and an engaging experience for visitors.

What are common challenges faced by aquarists working in public aquariums?

Aquarists in public aquariums often encounter challenges such as maintaining stable water quality, managing the health and welfare of diverse aquatic species, and responding quickly to emergencies like equipment failures or animal illnesses. The role also involves collaborating closely with veterinarians, educators, and fellow aquarists to ensure animal care standards and deliver engaging visitor experiences. Additionally, balancing routine maintenance with public interaction and educational programming can require strong organizational and communication skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aquarium technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aquarium Technician, you need a background in biology, marine science, or a related field, along with hands-on experience in aquatic animal care and tank maintenance. Familiarity with water quality testing kits, filtration systems, and aquarium management software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for addressing animal health and collaborating with team members. These skills ensure the safe, healthy environment necessary for aquatic life and the smooth operation of aquarium facilities.

What is the difference between Aquarium vs Marine Biologist?

AspectAquariumMarine Biologist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in animal careBachelor's or higher in Marine Biology or related field; advanced research credentials
Work EnvironmentPublic aquariums, zoos, or marine centersResearch labs, universities, fieldwork at sea
Employer & Industry UsageEducational and entertainment institutionsResearch institutions, universities, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonFocus on animal care and exhibit maintenanceFocus on scientific research and marine ecosystems

While both roles involve working with marine life, an Aquarium typically focuses on caring for animals in a public setting, maintaining exhibits, and educating visitors. A Marine Biologist conducts scientific research on marine organisms and ecosystems, often working in labs or in the field. The roles overlap in marine animal handling but differ significantly in their primary objectives and work environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Aquarium jobs in Decatur, GA?

The most popular types of Aquarium jobs in Decatur, GA are:

What are popular job titles related to Aquarium jobs in Decatur, GA?

For Aquarium jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Aquarium jobs in Decatur, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Aquarium jobs in Decatur, GA are:

What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Aquarium jobs?

Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Aquarium job openings:

Aquarium jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aquarium job openings in Decatur, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 73% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $84,996 per year, or $40.9 per hour.

Major Gifts Officer

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Georgia Aquarium
Museums and Historical Sites • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Georgia Aquariumexternal

$69K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Uses moves management philosophy to cultivate prospects through mail, telephone, and personal meetings.

  • Develops and implements strategies to identify potential prospects and grow the donor base.

  • Supports planning and execution of engagement events to ensure meaningful experiences for donors.

Georgia Aquarium rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Position Title: Major Gifts Officer
Department: 1410 - Development
Classification: Exempt/Full Time
Employee Type: TSE - Exe Team Spec
Direct Report: Vice President of Development
The Major Gifts Officer will broaden and maximize support for Georgia Aquarium by meeting or exceeding an annual individual solicitor fundraising target and contributing to meet a team fundraising goal. This person will provide exceptional stewardship, donor recognition, and meaningful value for gifts and will build strong relationships with the Georgia Aquarium community, including trustees, donors, staff, and volunteers by encouraging use of their skills and knowledge in support of philanthropic efforts.
Responsibilities:
  • Uses moves management philosophy to cultivate prospects by mail, telephone, and personal meetings.
  • Develops annual goals and implements action plans to maximize Georgia Aquarium fundraising support.
  • Works closely with leadership and other teams to create and implement a comprehensive systemwide solicitation program, encouraging ongoing support and stewarding prospects and donors through the fundraising continuum.
  • Develops and implements strategies for identifying potential prospects and growing donor base.
  • Represents Georgia Aquarium appropriately at miscellaneous community functions, networking and nurturing new and existing relationships.
  • Achieves annual revenue and other targets in areas of responsibility while minimizing cost to raise a dollar.
  • Sets expectations, develops plans, and manages processes to provide exceptional donor recognition and stewardship.
  • Supports planning and execution of engagement events to ensure meaningful experiences for donors.
  • Maintains expert knowledge of Georgia Aquarium.
  • Maintains up-to-date records on both prospects and donors via CRM.
  • Continually demonstrates team player attitude and positive approach.
  • Engages in staff professional development by communicating with peers in other organizations to generate new fundraising ideas.
  • Participates in educational programs, professional organizations, and development activities to maintain knowledge of national trends and promote leading-edge performance.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree required.
  • 3-5 years of experience in development/fundraising.
  • Excellent team building, communication, customer service, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
  • Detail-oriented with strong organizational and time management abilities.
  • Demonstrated record of successful relationships working with donors in closing gifts.
  • Knowledge of fundraising and CRM software.
  • Proficiency in MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).

Physical Demands & Work Environment:
The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
Commitment:
I commit to Georgia Aquarium, Inc. to be a part of the following:
Mission: Georgia Aquarium is a nonprofit committed to inspiring awareness and preservation of our ocean and Aquatic animals worldwide.
Vision: To be the Premier Aquarium in the World for Science, Entertainment, Education and Conservation.
Values: Respect, Teamwork, Integrity, Innovation, Leadership, Excellence, Appreciation & Inclusion
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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