2

Entry Level Aquarium Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Aquarium information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$21.5K

$44K

$63.5K

How much do entry level aquarium jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level aquarium in Decatur, GA is $43,980.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,100.00 and $48,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What kind of jobs can you get at an aquarium?

Entry-level aquarium jobs include positions such as aquarist assistants, animal care technicians, and maintenance staff. These roles involve tasks like cleaning tanks, feeding marine life, monitoring water quality, and assisting with exhibits, often requiring basic knowledge of aquatic animals and safety procedures.

Are aquarium jobs hard to get?

Aquarium jobs, including entry-level positions, can be competitive but are generally accessible to those with a passion for marine life and basic skills in animal care. Relevant certifications, such as first aid or animal handling, and experience with aquatic environments can improve chances of employment. Job availability depends on the facility and location, but many entry-level roles are available for motivated candidates.

What is an Entry Level Aquarium job?

An Entry Level Aquarium job typically involves basic care and maintenance of aquatic life in aquariums or marine facilities. Responsibilities may include feeding fish, testing water quality, cleaning tanks, and assisting with guest education or tours. These positions are often found in public aquariums, pet stores, research labs, or aquaculture facilities. No prior experience is usually required, but a passion for aquatic life and some knowledge of fish care can be beneficial.

What are some typical responsibilities for someone in an entry level aquarium position?

In an entry level aquarium role, your daily tasks often include feeding aquatic animals, cleaning tanks, monitoring water quality, and assisting with maintenance of displays and equipment. You’ll also interact with guests, answering general questions or providing information under the guidance of more experienced staff. Teamwork is important, as you may support aquarists or educators during special exhibits or public presentations. This position offers valuable hands-on experience and can serve as a stepping stone to more specialized roles within aquarium operations, animal husbandry, or marine education.

How to get into aquarium work?

To get into aquarium work, start by gaining knowledge of aquatic life and tank maintenance through courses or self-study. Volunteer or seek entry-level positions at pet stores, aquariums, or marine centers to build hands-on experience and develop skills in water chemistry, cleaning, and animal care. Certifications in aquatic animal husbandry or water quality can improve job prospects.

Can I work at an aquarium with no experience?

Entry-level aquarium positions often do not require prior experience, as training is typically provided on the job. Basic knowledge of aquatic life, good communication skills, and a willingness to learn are helpful for starting in such roles, which may include tasks like cleaning tanks, feeding animals, and assisting visitors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Aquarium position, and why are they important?

To thrive in an Entry Level Aquarium position, you should have basic knowledge of aquatic animal care, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with water testing kits, filtration systems, and basic aquarium maintenance tools is valuable, and some employers may prefer CPR or first aid certification. Strong communication skills, reliability, and a willingness to learn new tasks set candidates apart. These abilities are crucial for ensuring animal health, maintaining a clean and safe environment, and collaborating effectively with team members and visitors.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Aquarium jobs in Decatur, GA? For Entry Level Aquarium jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Aquarium jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Aquarium jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Entry Level Aquarium jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Entry Level Aquarium job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Aquarium job openings in Decatur, GA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,980 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
Dive Master Apprentice, Dive Immersion

Dive Master Apprentice, Dive Immersion

Georgia Aquarium

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Georgia Aquarium rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 33 rated wildlife parks and zoos


Job description

Position Title: Dive Master Apprentice
Department: 3380 - Dive Immersion
Classification: PTNOEX - Part-Time Non-Exempt
Employee Type: PTS - PT Team Spec
Direct Report: Assistant Manager, Dive Immersion
Position Summary:
This entry-level position is responsible for the delivery of the Dive Immersion Programs, which includes but are not limited to the SCUBA dive, Swim, and Shark Cage Dive experiences. The Dive Master Apprentice ensures the programs are run safely, efficiently, and provides exceptional guest experience. They will be asked to provide in-water or top-side support for the Dive Immersion Programs in accordance with Georgia Aquarium's Dive safety standards and protocols
Responsibilities:
  1. Conducts the daily delivery of Dive Immersion Programs and guest experiences.
  2. Maintains the highest level of safety and quality of the Dive Immersion Programs possible.
  3. Participates in training and developmental classes.
  4. Fulfill assignments of program roles on rotational basis; includes guest representative, ride operator, in-water guide/safety, and surface support.
  5. Set up and inspects open circuit dive equipment to ensure all are within proper operating parameters.
  6. Meets all applicable requirements as outlined in Georgia Aquarium's Diving Operations and Procedures Manual.
  7. Adheres to all dive safety policies and procedures as set by GAI and the Dive Control Board.
  8. Regularly performs guest experience dives in support of the program mission to include the SCUBA dive, Swim, & Shark Cage Dive programs.
  9. Regularly demonstrates a comprehensive and advanced knowledge of recreational diving methods and techniques.
  10. Regularly demonstrates a broad technical and recreational expertise in diving.
  11. Always maintains the highest standards of professionalism, proper appearance, and work area cleanliness.
  12. Regularly interacts on behalf of Dive Immersion with guests, media, and other departments within Georgia Aquarium.
  13. Performs other functions for Dive Operations such as filling cylinders, tending/diving presentations, data entry, buddy diving, other duties for Zoological Operations as needed.

Qualifications:
  1. High School Diploma required. Bachelor's Degree preferred.
  2. Present evidence of all dive training and diving history.
  3. Hold a current advanced open water certification or higher.
  4. Pass Georgia Aquarium's Dive Physical.
  5. Pass Georgia Aquarium's Swim and SCUBA Test.
  6. Pass an Open Water checkout dive with Diving Safety Officer or Designee.

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 75 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.

What Georgia Aquarium employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom