1

Georgia Aquarium Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Major Gifts Officer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Represents Georgia Aquarium appropriately at miscellaneous community functions, networking and nurturing new and existing relationships. * Achieves annual revenue and other targets in areas of ...

New

This position is responsible for the daily care and behavioral conditioning of Georgia Aquarium's Mammal & Bird collection. The primary objectives and responsibilities are to play a primary role in ...

Staff Accountant

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$52K - $69K/yr

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Georgia Aquarium information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$26.4K

$137.9K

$303.2K

How much do georgia aquarium jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for georgia aquarium in Decatur, GA is $137,867.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,000.00 and $207,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are jobs at the Georgia Aquarium?

Jobs at the Georgia Aquarium encompass a wide range of roles, including animal care specialists, aquarists, veterinarians, educators, guest services staff, maintenance technicians, and administrative personnel. Employees may be responsible for caring for marine animals, maintaining exhibits, providing educational programs, supporting guests, or ensuring the facility operates smoothly. Working at the Georgia Aquarium typically requires a passion for marine life, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to conservation and education. Many positions also require relevant experience or specialized education in marine biology, animal science, or hospitality. The aquarium offers both full-time and part-time opportunities, as well as internships and volunteer roles.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an aquarium biologist at the Georgia Aquarium?

To thrive as an Aquarium Biologist, you need a background in marine biology or a related field, experience with aquatic animal care, and often a bachelor's degree in a life science. Familiarity with water quality testing, life support systems, and animal health monitoring software is typically required. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and teamwork are vital soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure the well-being of aquatic species, support conservation efforts, and enable safe, efficient operation of aquarium exhibits.

What are common challenges faced by staff working at the Georgia Aquarium, and how are they typically addressed?

Staff at the Georgia Aquarium often encounter challenges related to maintaining animal health, managing large crowds, and ensuring an engaging guest experience. Team members work closely across departments—including animal care, education, and guest services—to coordinate daily operations and respond promptly to any issues. Ongoing staff training, clear communication protocols, and a strong focus on teamwork help address these challenges effectively. Employees are also encouraged to participate in professional development opportunities, which further supports a positive and collaborative work environment.

What is the difference between Georgia Aquarium vs Marine Biologist?

AspectGeorgia AquariumMarine Biologist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; specialized training or certifications in aquaticsBachelor's degree in Marine Biology or related field; advanced degrees often preferred
Work EnvironmentPublic aquarium setting, interactive exhibits, public educationResearch labs, fieldwork at marine sites, academic or conservation organizations
Employer & IndustryPublic aquariums, zoological institutionsUniversities, research institutions, conservation agencies
Common Search & ComparisonVisitor experience, aquatics jobs, aquarium staff rolesMarine research, fieldwork, marine conservation careers

Georgia Aquarium staff typically focus on public education and exhibit maintenance within a public setting, requiring specialized aquatics training. Marine Biologists conduct research and conservation work, often in labs or marine environments, with higher educational requirements. Both roles are vital in marine-related industries but differ in responsibilities and work environments.

What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Georgia Aquarium jobs?

Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Georgia Aquarium job openings:

Infographic showing various Georgia Aquarium job openings in Decatur, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, and 46% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $137,867 per year, or $66.3 per hour.

Major Gifts Officer

Atlanta, GA • On-site


Georgia Aquarium
Museums and Historical Sites • 201 - 500 employees

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

31st of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Uninterrupted breaks


$69K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Position Title: Major Gifts Officer
Department: 1410 - Development
Classification: Exempt/Full Time
Employee Type: TSE - Exe Team Spec
Direct Report: Vice President of Development
The Major Gifts Officer will broaden and maximize support for Georgia Aquarium by meeting or exceeding an annual individual solicitor fundraising target and contributing to meet a team fundraising goal. This person will provide exceptional stewardship, donor recognition, and meaningful value for gifts and will build strong relationships with the Georgia Aquarium community, including trustees, donors, staff, and volunteers by encouraging use of their skills and knowledge in support of philanthropic efforts.
Responsibilities:
  • Uses moves management philosophy to cultivate prospects by mail, telephone, and personal meetings.
  • Develops annual goals and implements action plans to maximize Georgia Aquarium fundraising support.
  • Works closely with leadership and other teams to create and implement a comprehensive systemwide solicitation program, encouraging ongoing support and stewarding prospects and donors through the fundraising continuum.
  • Develops and implements strategies for identifying potential prospects and growing donor base.
  • Represents Georgia Aquarium appropriately at miscellaneous community functions, networking and nurturing new and existing relationships.
  • Achieves annual revenue and other targets in areas of responsibility while minimizing cost to raise a dollar.
  • Sets expectations, develops plans, and manages processes to provide exceptional donor recognition and stewardship.
  • Supports planning and execution of engagement events to ensure meaningful experiences for donors.
  • Maintains expert knowledge of Georgia Aquarium.
  • Maintains up-to-date records on both prospects and donors via CRM.
  • Continually demonstrates team player attitude and positive approach.
  • Engages in staff professional development by communicating with peers in other organizations to generate new fundraising ideas.
  • Participates in educational programs, professional organizations, and development activities to maintain knowledge of national trends and promote leading-edge performance.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree required.
  • 3-5 years of experience in development/fundraising.
  • Excellent team building, communication, customer service, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
  • Detail-oriented with strong organizational and time management abilities.
  • Demonstrated record of successful relationships working with donors in closing gifts.
  • Knowledge of fundraising and CRM software.
  • Proficiency in MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).

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 25 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

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom