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Aquarium Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aquarium Educator

Norwalk, CT · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

ORGANIZATION BACKGROUND The Maritime Aquarium's mission is to ignite a connection to Long Island Sound and the ocean to enrich the lives of all people and inspire action to protect our blue planet.

New

Aquarium Educator (Full-Time/Part-Time) Reports To: Education Assistant Manager Compensation: $17.00 per hour Why Utah? Utah is home to five national parks, world-class skiing and snowboarding ...

Aquarium Educator

Norwalk, CT · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

Position Description The Aquarium Educator teaches a wide variety of programs: onsite, offsite, aboard the Aquarium's vessel, and online. Responsible for using high-quality instructional strategies ...

New

Aquarium Exhibit Educator This isn't just your next job - it's your opportunity to be part of an amazing team that delivers on our promise to meet and exceed our guest's experience the moment they ...

Aquarium Exhibit Educator This isn't just your next job - it's your opportunity to be part of an amazing team that delivers on our promise to meet and exceed our guest's experience the moment they ...

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aquarium information

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$28K

$87.1K

$96K

How much do aquarium jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 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.

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:

Infographic showing various Aquarium job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 74% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $87,056 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

$19 - $25/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

ORGANIZATION BACKGROUND
The Maritime Aquarium's mission is to ignite a connection to Long Island Sound and the ocean to enrich the lives of all people and inspire action to protect our blue planet. For 38 years, the Aquarium has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of Norwalk and the region. The second largest family attraction in Connecticut, and 50 miles from New York City, the Aquarium hosts nearly 450,000 guests annually. Its primary exhibits take guests on a voyage from the shallow salt marshes and estuaries to the depths of the Long Island Sound and the ocean beyond, culminating with habitats for sharks and harbor seals.
Altogether, the Aquarium is home to more than 8,000 animals and 285 species in 75 exhibits. A new 4D Theater offers a unique sensory film experience for guests. Its education programs introduce nearly 50,000 students, campers and scouts to marine and STEM education. The Aquarium is recognized as a top aquarium in the nation and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. It is an active participant in the local and regional community. The strength of the Aquarium is its approximately 97 full-time and 78 part-time employees, seasonal staff, and our volunteers.
Position Description
The Aquarium Educator teaches a wide variety of programs: onsite, offsite, aboard the Aquarium's vessel, and online. Responsible for using high-quality instructional strategies, attending training, and department meetings.
This is a full-time in-person position working Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM, with occasional evening and weekend hours as needed. The hourly pay range for this role is $19-$25 per hour.
Required Qualifications
  • B.A. B.S. in science and/or education with a focus in biology, ecology, oceanography or related field, plus 2-3 years of experience teaching in formal and/or informal science education settings, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Demonstrated teaching and presentation skills.
  • Strong English written and verbal skills.
  • Strong computer competencies with the ability to use the Microsoft Office suite of programs (Word, PowerPoint, and Excel).
  • Excellent time management, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to lift 60 pounds and work in a variety of natural environments (e.g. forests, stream/river habitats and coastal habitats) in a range of weather conditions.
  • Current driver's license with a clean driving record.

Desired Qualifications
  • Spanish language skills.
  • Experience in early childhood education

Essential Functions
  • Teaching
    • Assume role of lead or assistant educator in preparing and presenting classroom, exhibit gallery-based and field-based programs targeting children and adults representing a range of ages. Includes duties related to:
      • Class preparation / set-up / take-down;
      • Teacher communication;
      • The presentation of prepared curricula utilizing a variety of educational aids (e.g. live animals, audio/visual equipment, artifacts, microscopes, dissecting kits)
  • Administrative and professional development
    • The organization, inventory, and restocking of education materials and supplies.
    • Attend all required staff training and meetings.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
The Maritime Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer with a commitment to diversity. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply.