ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Aquarium Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Marriott

Assistant Aquarium Curator

Longboat Key, FL · On-site

Specific duties include, but are not limited to procurement, aquarium maintenance, SCUBA diving, safety and supervision of aquarium team, water chemistry, LSS maintenance, and customer service. In ...

Marriott

Assistant Aquarium Curator

Longboat Key, FL · On-site

Specific duties include, but are not limited to procurement, aquarium maintenance, SCUBA diving, safety and supervision of aquarium team, water chemistry, LSS maintenance, and customer service. In ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAquarium Jobs

Aquarium information

See salary details

$28K

$87.1K

$96K

How much do aquarium jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 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 some 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 aquarium workers and what do they do?

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.
More about Aquarium jobs
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:
Aquarium jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aquarium job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 21% Full Time, 72% Part Time, and 7% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,056 per year, or $41.9 per hour.
2nd Shift Operations & Maintenance Specialist II - Aquarium Systems

2nd Shift Operations & Maintenance Specialist II - Aquarium Systems

Shedd Aquarium

Chicago, IL • On-site

$27 - $33/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 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 33 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

TITLE: 2nd ShiftOperations & Maintenance Specialist II - Aquarium Systems
DEPARTMENT: Facilities
REPORTS TO: Manager, Base Building & Life Support
STATUS: Full-Time, Non-Exempt
PAY RATE: $27.00 - $33.00/hour
We're looking for technically skilled, curious, and dependable people to join our Operations & Maintenance team. This is a unique opportunity to apply your mechanical, electrical, or facility maintenance experience in an aquarium environment, directly supporting the systems that keep our animals, staff, and guests safe.
What You'll Do
As an O&M Specialist, you'll:
  • Operate & maintain critical systems - including HVAC, boilers, pumps, life support systems, valves, filters, and other facility equipment.
  • Work with water quality - perform water transfers, backwash filters, mix salt, and test water chemistry to ensure healthy aquatic environments.
  • Troubleshoot & repair - perform preventive maintenance, diagnose issues, and assist with mechanical/electrical repairs across the building.
  • Collaborate & support - partner with operators, exhibit teams, and other staff to plan equipment downtime, respond to urgent issues, and support special events.
  • Ensure safety & reliability - follow protocols for handling hazardous materials, maintain a safe workspace, and help keep systems running smoothly 24/7.

Schedule
  • 2nd Shift: 3:00 pm - 11:00 pm, Tuesday - Saturday
  • Training: First 2 weeks on 1st Shift (M-F) for onboarding

What We're Looking For
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • 2+ years of experience in industrial, facility, or equipment maintenance (mechanical, electrical, or plumbing)
  • 1+ years of experience in mechanical maintenance or electrical system maintenance and repair
  • Water quality, water chemistry, or life support system experience is a plus (but not required; we'll train the right candidate)
  • Comfortable using tools, troubleshooting equipment, and working in hands-on environments
  • Ability to lift up to 75 lbs., climb ladders, and work in varied conditions (heat, cold, humidity, noise)

Why You'll Love This Job
  • Be part of a team that supports the care of animals and exhibits seen by millions of visitors each year
  • Gain specialized training in life support systems and water quality unique to aquariums
  • Opportunities for growth into more advanced technical roles
  • Competitive pay, free parking, and full benefits (see below)
BENEFITS OF WORKING AT SHEDD:
  • Medical Insurance, including FSA and HSA plan options
  • Vision and Dental Insurance
  • Accrued Paid Time Off
  • Up to 12 Paid Holidays
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental Leave and Adoption Assistance
  • 401(k)
  • Discounted Parking and Public Transit Subsidies
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Wellness program, including Preventive Care Incentive
  • Employee Discounts
  • Employee Tickets
  • AALSO Certification (After 1 Year)
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.

Apply