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Aquarium information

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$28K

$87.1K

$96K

How much do aquarium jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 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 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.

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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 60% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,056 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

Newport Aquarium Zoological Operations Coordinator

Newport, KY • On-site

Newport Aquarium
Traveler Accommodation • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Newport Aquariumexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Newport Aquarium rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Maintains the institution's animal records and associated databases
  • Is the expert user of record-keeping software for our property and will be expected to attend annual conferences and maintain direct communication with software programming team to keep up to date with most recent trends
  • Leads onboarding and training for Hosts across departments in record-keeping software use.
  • Executes the annual application and maintenance of the institution's possession, transport, and collecting permits
  • Prepares monthly and quarterly acquisition and disposition reports for internal use as well as for submission to required regulatory authorities
  • Assist in organization of AZA documents and reports. Heavily involved in the accumulation of records during accreditation periods and annual edARC annual reporting.
  • Take direction from Water Quality Lab Manager to perform and report basic chemistry tests as needed to maintain consistent water quality records throughout the week.
  • Assist Zoological Team leadership with all administrative needs for the department
  • Comply with all safety and security directives, policies and procedures
  • Work schedule will be Tuesday to Saturday 7:30AM to 4:30PM
  • Participate in the weekend/holiday rotation as needed
  • Perform other related duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • A Bachelor's Degree is required
  • Five years of experience at a public aquarium, zoo or similar institution and a demonstrated knowledge of aquarium operations, husbandry and taxonomy
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Access, Windows, Excel, PPT
  • Knowledge of TRACKS database; experience maintaining databases of similar complexity
  • Knowledge of AZA accreditation and other AZA industry, state/federal compliance
  • Strong interest in conservation
  • Anticipation of and fulfillment of staff administration needs
  • A person that possess strong attention to detail and organizational skills
  • Maintaining appropriate professional contacts relevant to the position
  • This position is considered Safety Critical with authorized operator requirements. Must possess valid driver's license with a clean driving record and the ability to travel if necessary
  • This position will cover the water quality lab on Saturdays and must have the ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings and holidays as needs dictate.

PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Successful completion of pre-employment drug screening, background check, and dive physical
  • In good health and capable of performing strenuous and/or heavy physical labor
  • No history of allergy related to animals or plants, which might interfere with ability to work
  • Ability to remain on feet for long periods of time, climb stairs, bend and stoop
  • Ability to work in all weather conditions
  • No impairment of sight, smell, hearing, touch, balance and agility of movement which might interfere with ability to work
  • Physical strength, including the ability to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Immunocompetence (possible exposure to infections and parasitic disease)

Note: Position will involve exposure to inclement weather, dust, potentially dangerous and unpredictable animal species, and potentially dangerous machinery, restraint devices and toxic chemicals and/or drugs. Occasional use of protective clothing or equipment is required e.g. goggles, mask, gloves, and gowns.
WHAT YOU'LL GET:
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vison insurances
  • 40 sick hours, 40 personal hours, 8 Holidays, 80 Vacation Hours annually
  • 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 before - 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.
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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