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Aquatic Animal Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sea Research Foundation, Inc.

$52 - $70/hr

Must possess Aquatic Animal Life Support Operator (AALSO) Level 1 Life Support Certification or have the ability to become certified within 1 year of employment; Level 2 Life Support Certification ...

Wildlife Conservation Society

Veterinarian

New York, NY

$110K - $130K/yr

Collaborate with the Aquatic Health Department (AHD), Animal Department staff, Life Support Staff, and the Bronx Zoo Zoological Health Program to provide excellent medical, surgical, and preventative ...

New York Aquarium

Veterinarian

New York, NY · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Collaborate with the Aquatic Health Department (AHD), Animal Department staff, Life Support Staff, and the Bronx Zoo Zoological Health Program to provide excellent medical, surgical, and preventative ...

Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa

$34.56/hr

This role ensures adherence to strict water quality guidelines which is the basis of our aquatic animal health program. This position will primarily work a second or third shift. Responsibilities

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Aquatic Animal information

See salary details

$28K

$87.1K

$96K

How much do aquatic animal jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for aquatic animal 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 aquatic animal?

Aquatic animals are organisms that live in water for most or all of their lives. They include a wide variety of species such as fish, amphibians, marine mammals, crustaceans, and mollusks, among others. Aquatic animals can be found in both freshwater and saltwater environments, including oceans, rivers, lakes, and ponds. They play crucial roles in their ecosystems, contributing to biodiversity and the health of aquatic habitats.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aquatic animal veterinarian?

To thrive as an Aquatic Animal Veterinarian, you need a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, specialized knowledge in aquatic animal health, and often board certification or internship/residency in aquatic medicine. Familiarity with diagnostic tools like ultrasound, water quality analysis systems, and laboratory testing procedures is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with clients and colleagues help set you apart. These competencies are crucial for properly diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases in aquatic species to support animal welfare and ecosystem health.

What are some typical challenges faced by aquatic animal veterinarians and how can they be addressed?

Aquatic Animal Veterinarians often encounter unique challenges, such as diagnosing illnesses in species that may not display obvious symptoms and working in environments like aquariums or open water where examinations can be difficult. Effective communication and collaboration with aquarists, marine biologists, and caretakers are essential for monitoring animal health. Staying current on emerging diseases and treatment protocols, as well as developing specialized handling skills, helps address these challenges and ensures the well-being of aquatic animals.

What is the difference between Aquatic Animal vs Marine Biologist?

AspectAquatic AnimalMarine Biologist
CredentialsVaries; often includes biology or marine science degreesTypically requires a degree in marine biology, oceanography, or related fields
Work EnvironmentZoos, aquariums, research labs, conservation sitesOpen ocean, coastal areas, research vessels, laboratories
Employer & IndustryZoos, aquariums, conservation organizations, research institutionsUniversities, government agencies, research institutes
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles related to aquatic animalsStudying marine life and ecosystems

While both roles focus on aquatic life, an Aquatic Animal typically refers to the animals themselves, often in contexts like zoos or aquariums, whereas a Marine Biologist studies marine ecosystems and the biology of marine organisms, including aquatic animals. The roles overlap in working with aquatic species but differ in scope and focus.

Can I work at an aquarium with no experience?

Aquatic animal jobs at aquariums often do not require prior experience, especially for entry-level positions such as animal care assistants or aquarists. Relevant skills include a passion for marine life, basic knowledge of animal care, and sometimes certifications like CPR or first aid; on-the-job training is typically provided. However, more specialized roles may require relevant education or experience.

What degree do you need to work with aquatic animals?

Aquatic animal professionals typically need at least a bachelor's degree in marine biology, zoology, fisheries science, or a related field. Advanced roles may require a master's or doctoral degree, along with hands-on experience and certifications in animal care or research methods.

What jobs work with aquatic animals?

Jobs that work with aquatic animals include marine biologists, aquarists, fisheries scientists, marine mammal trainers, and aquatic veterinarian technicians. These roles often require knowledge of marine biology, animal care skills, and sometimes specialized certifications or degrees. They typically involve working in aquariums, research facilities, or in the field conducting studies or conservation efforts.
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What cities are hiring for Aquatic Animal jobs?

Cities with the most Aquatic Animal job openings:

What states have the most Aquatic Animal jobs?

States with the most job openings for Aquatic Animal jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Aquatic Animal jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Aquatic Animal jobs are:

Aquatic Animal jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aquatic Animal job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,056 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

Senior Technician - Life Support Systems

Sea Research Foundation, Inc.

On-site

$52 - $70/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Full Time Hourly Technicians Mystic, CT, Mystic, CT, US

3 days ago Requisition ID: 1581

Department: Environmental Quality / Life Support

Reports to: Manager of Life Support Systems

Classification: Full-Time, Non-Exempt

Job Overview: Environmental Quality provides internal services to Mystic Aquarium’s animal care teams, and a positive, can-do attitude and teamwork-focused work ethic are always required. The Senior Life Support Systems Technician is responsible for the daily operations, monitoring, maintenance, and repair of primary and ancillary aquatic life support system equipment, ensuring the highest standard of care for Mystic Aquarium’s animal collection. This role assists the Manager of Life Support Systems in monitoring, preserving, and modifying existing water treatment processes; installing new equipment and process components; and identifying and acquiring critical equipment, components, supplies, and consumables.

Primary Functions:

  • Life Support System Operations and Maintenance
  • Operate, maintain, and repair aquatic life support equipment, including filters, pumps, protein fractionators, ultraviolet sterilizers, ozone generators and monitors, chemical dosing equipment, heat exchangers, water treatment controls, and process instrumentation.
  • Keep equipment and associated areas clean and well maintained.
  • Perform duties in variable environmental and physical conditions.

Leadership and Cross-Functional Collaboration:

  • Serve as lead to life support technicians and assistant technicians, developing courses of action to resolve life support system issues while working independently or with minimal supervision, and completing assignments efficiently and effectively.
  • Work cross-functionally with Zoological Operations staff, including the Manager of Water Quality, Water Quality Technicians, animal husbandry staff, the Dive Safety Officer, and veterinarians, as well as outside contractors and vendors, to facilitate the highest degree of animal care and welfare.
  • Develop and implement systems and standard operating procedures with approval by the Manager of Life Support Systems. Compliance, Communication, and Reliability.
  • Consistently provide guests and internal customers service at or above expectations.
  • Maintain effective and thorough written and verbal communications, exhibiting respectful behavior in all interactions.
  • Demonstrate compliance with Mystic Aquarium’s standards, state and federal regulatory requirements, and industry standard.
  • Move and distribute controlled materials and chemicals, adhering to SDS and PPE protocols and safety recommendations.
  • Arrive for shift on time and ready to work; be available for emergencies and able to adjust work schedule to fulfill responsibilities.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Safety and Security:

  • Work in a safe manner at all times, properly using and maintaining all personal protective equipment (PPE) supplied for protection from recognized hazards.
  • Report any unsafe conditions promptly.
  • Maintain a working knowledge of facility-wide and department-specific safety procedures, including emergency evacuation, lockdown procedures, and fire extinguisher use.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Education & Experience: Bachelor's degree in a related discipline preferred; 3 years of hands‑on experience operating life support systems and/or other mechanical systems is required, with a demonstrated history of outstanding workmanship in plumbing (PVC primarily), maintenance of pumps, filters, valves, and ancillary equipment, and experience with chemistry in aquatic animal systems.
  • Certifications: Must possess Aquatic Animal Life Support Operator (AALSO) Level 1 Life Support Certification or have the ability to become certified within 1 year of employment; Level 2 Life Support Certification and Level 1 Water Quality Certification preferred. SCUBA certification or the ability to pass a swim test is required.
  • Technical and Mechanical Skills: Experience with tools/power tools, machinery, and heavy equipment (forklift) operation; general knowledge of electrical systems and control applications; ability to interpret technical/mechanical drawings and schematics (P&IDs, blueprints, diagrams).
  • Technical Proficiency: Demonstrated proficiency in MS Office applications required; TRACKS experience preferred.
  • Licensure: Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
  • Physical Capability: Physically demanding role requiring the ability to lift 75 lbs., maneuver in confining and lofty locations, and work within a variety of environmental conditions (rain, snow, heat); situational awareness, good body conditioning, and excellent hand‑eye coordination are required.
  • Flexibility and Availability: Must be willing and flexible to work after hours, weekends, and holidays.
  • Physical Demands: This role requires the ability to move equipment and operate, inspect, and position equipment frequently, along with consistent walking and some standing or sitting. The position demands frequent communication, hearing, and close, distance, color, peripheral, and depth‑perception vision, as well as frequent focus adjustment, and involves occasional ladder use and stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling. Employees regularly work indoors and are occasionally exposed to outdoor conditions, cold, heat, confined areas, electrical hazards, explosive materials, fumes, dusts, and gases, along with some exposure to temperature changes, wet conditions, noise, high places, and mechanical hazards. Some exposure to solvents, acids, corrosives, and cleaning agents should also be expected. The role involves frequent collaboration with others, some guest contact, and occasional use of driving, computers, and telephones as part of routine duties.

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Employment with this organization is at-will, meaning either the employee or the organization may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, subject to applicable laws. This organization is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities to enable them to perform the essential functions of this position. This position may require background checks and reference verification as part of the hiring process.

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