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Aquarium Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Maintaining advanced large private and commercial saltwater living reef aquariums. You will work out of a 5000 square foot facility specifically designed to support a thriving saltwater maintenance ...

Aquarium service tech

Carlsbad, CA · Remote

$18 - $22/hr

Salty Sea Corals is a professional aquarium service company specializing in saltwater, freshwater, and pond maintenance. We provide high-quality service to residential and commercial clients and take ...

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Aquarium information

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$28K

$87.1K

$96K

How much do aquarium jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for aquarium in the United States is $87,056.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,000.00 and $94,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 cities are hiring for Aquarium jobs? Cities with the most Aquarium job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Aquarium jobs? The most popular types of Aquarium jobs are:
What states have the most Aquarium jobs? States with the most job openings for Aquarium jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Aquarium jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Aquarium jobs are:
Infographic showing various Aquarium job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 69% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $87,056 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

Newport Aquarium Gift Shop Host - Part Time

Newport Aquarium LLC

Newport, KY

$12/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Newport Aquarium rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos


Job description

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Responsible for maintaining PCI (Payment Card Industry) compliance.
  • Always maintain appropriate guest and team member relations, ensuring guest and team satisfaction.
  • Always maintain a positive attitude and appearance.
  • Approach guests in a friendly manner to help and provide information regarding Newport Aquarium.
  • Always keep safety as a number one priority while working at Newport Aquarium.
  • Work with other team members/departments of Newport Aquarium to ensure effective communication.
  • Must be self-motivated to work independently, as well as, disciplined and reliable.
  • Demonstrates strong customer service and interpersonal skills.
  • Maintain knowledge of activities, aquatic life, and Newport Aquarium special events/promotions to properly notify and inform guests.
  • Perform other related duties or projects as assigned by the Merchandise management team e.g. stock replenishment.
  • Perform, adhere to, and implement all Herschend Enterprises’ Core Values and Newport Aquarium Guest Service Standards, Policies and Procedures, and Safety Protocols to ensure safe and efficient guest service operations.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Prior point of sale experience is a plus.
  • Must have strong public speaking skills and the ability to read, write and speak the English language (knowledge of other languages is a plus).
  • Must be able to think clearly, react quickly, and calmly to changes and/or emergency situations
  • Previous guest service or retail experience preferred.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule which may include evenings and/or weekends and holidays.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Successful completion of pre-employment background check.
  • Ability to remain stationary for long periods of time, ascend & descend floors, bend, and stoop.
  • No history of allergies related to animals or plants, which might interfere with ability to work.
  • Physical strength, including the ability to lift, push, pull up to 25 pounds

What you’ll get:

  • Profit Sharing and 401K Plan with company match
  • Free entrance for you and your dependents which extends to most Herschend Enterprises’ properties
  • Earn 1 General Admission complimentary ticket, that you can give to anyone, per pay period
  • Discounts at Sharky’s Café, Sweet Dreams Candy Company, and the gift shop
  • Discounted tickets and annual passes for friends and family
  • Training and development

You can expect to work on projects that have never been done after – ideas that are unproven, and concepts that make people smile. You can expect to have fun and be treated with respect the minute you start…and through to the end. You can expect to work in an environment that is highly innovative and low in politics – truthful and filled with smart people; all while providing the BEST GUEST EXPERIENCE IN THE NATION!

And most of all, you can expect to work hard and make a difference in our world by helping to bring families closer together.

Looking to pursue your education without debt? Grow U has hundreds of programs available from certifications to college prep to associates, bachelor's, and master’s degrees. Most of these programs are fully funded. Learn more at: https://www.newportaquarium.com/Careers/Benefits/GrowU

Newport Aquarium, one of the many properties owned by Herschend Enterprises, prides itself on creating memories worth repeating. Our Core Values – greatly exceeding guest expectations, serving others, creating emotional connections, and constantly improving – give us purpose and guidance.


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