Senior Aquarist

 

Senior Aquarist

Exploris Aquarium

 

Job Description:

Our animal care team work hard to maintain and deliver Northern Ireland’s 5-star aquarium and reptile attraction. The Senior Aquarist, reporting to the Head Keeper, provides high standards of husbandry to the aquatic animals, including, but not limited to, daily observations of dietary and behavioural habits, cleaning and maintaining assigned exhibit and holding areas, tracking inventory, and keeping accurate and up to date records of assigned aquatic collections.

The Senior Aquarist will need to independently judge and use their initiative to problem solve when necessary, keeping animal welfare at the forefront of any decision.

The successful candidate will also be responsible for the daily oversight of the animal care team, ensuring that related projects are progressing, and leading the daily activities of Aquarists while serving as a role model.

 

Essential Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Zoology or related field required OR equivalent experience.

• 3+ years of progressive levels of responsibility providing daily husbandry to a wide array of aquatic animals, preferably at a BIAZA-accredited institution. 1+ years of experience training/supervising others highly preferred.

• Knowledge of modern principles of animal care and welfare, including behavioural enrichment, exhibit design, nutrition, disease, training, water chemistry, animal transport, PVC plumbing, and Life Support Systems.

• Must have experience with quarantine procedures and aquatic animal veterinary procedures.

• Specific knowledge of temperate and tropical ecosystems.

• Strong observational skills with a high attention to detail to ensure high animal welfare standards are maintained.

• Sound judgment and ability to use initiative for effective decision-making.

• Must have a valid full clean UK driver’s licence.

• Knowledge of safe animal handling practices and maintaining a safe working environment.

• Strong computer (MS Office programs such as Excel, Word, and Outlook) and organisational skills.

• Demonstrated leadership ability with experience mentoring others preferred.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.

• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.

• Willingness to work a flexible schedule which includes weekends and holidays as required.

 

Desirable Requirements

• Experience in a variety of breeding programs including jellyfish, marine fish and crustaceans.

• Experience of the culture of various live feeds used for nutrition of marine animals.

• Experience working with mammals and reptiles.

• Knowledge of Zoo licensing process.

Email CV & Cover letter to Matt@explorisni.com - An application form will be sent to those that fit the requirements for this position.

 

This position will close upon finding a suitable candidate.

Contact me? See below.

Peter Dickinson Independent International Zoo Consultant +66 (0) 93 0835 862 | elvinhow@gmail.com https://iizc.org/ | Skype: peter.dickinson48

Aquarist/Keeper

 

Aquarist/Keeper

 

Exploris Aquarium

 

This is an exciting opportunity for a hardworking, enthusiastic & Experienced Aquarist/Keeper with a passion for conservation to join our team at Exploris Aquarium & Seal Sanctuary.

 

Situated on the shore of Strangford Lough in Portaferry, Northern Ireland.  We are an independent Aquarium & Seal Sanctuary that takes visitors on a spectacular journey through various habitats.

 

Reporting directly to the Head Keeper, the Aquarist/Keeper will be responsible for maintaining and developing displays and exhibits – promoting education and awareness in relation to conservation and delivering a memorable experience to visitors. Experience in all aspects of animal husbandry is essential. This is a hands-on role and will include caring for over a thousand species of aquatic life.

 

Closing date for applications is: 21st Aug 2020

 

Send CV & Cover letter to Matt@exploris.ni.com to receive application pack.

Read What Makes a Good Zoo - A Personal Journey

Peter Dickinson Independent International Zoo Consultant +66 (0) 93 0835 862 | elvinhow@gmail.com https://iizc.org/ | Skype: peter.dickinson48

Aquarist/Keeper

Aquarist/Keeper

Exploris Aquarium

This is an exciting opportunity for a hardworking, enthusiastic & experienced Aquarist/Keeper with a passion for conservation to join our team at Exploris Aquarium & Seal Sanctuary.

Situated on the shore of Strangford Lough in Portaferry, Northern Ireland.  We are an independent Aquarium & Seal Sanctuary that takes visitors on a spectacular journey through various habitats.

Reporting directly to the Head Keeper, the Aquarist/Keeper will be responsible for maintaining and developing displays and exhibits – promoting education and awareness in relation to conservation and delivering a memorable experience to visitors. Experience in all aspects of animal husbandry is essential. This is a hands-on role and will include caring for over a thousand species of aquatic life including fish, mammals & reptiles.

As part of the animal care team, you will ensure all livestock displays are well presented and maintained. You will also be responsible for promoting and participating in public presentations, tours, birthday parties and educational sessions, as well as interacting with visitors whilst carrying out your daily duties around the aquarium. It’s essential therefore that you are a confident public speaker.

Due to the nature of our business, you will be required to work during weekends, bank holidays and school holidays.

For applicants that are relocating - we can also offer 3 months free accommodation to the successful candidate in a property owned by the directors of the aquarium. The property is located 7 miles from the aquarium.

Closing date for applications is: 10th Jul 2020

Please send CV & covering letter to Matt@explorisni.com and an application pack will be sent via email.

What Makes a Good Zoo - A Personal Journey

Peter Dickinson Independent International Zoo Consultant +66 (0) 93 0835 862 | elvinhow@gmail.com https://iizc.org/ | Skype: peter.dickinson48

Senior Aquarist

Senior Aquarist

Exploris Aquarium

Job Title: Experienced Aquarist

Responsible to: Head Keeper, Manager and Directors

Contract: Full-Time (Permanent)

Salary: £22,000pa

Free accommodation is provided a short distance away from the aquarium for a period of 3 months to the successful applicant.

Job Description:

Our animal care team work hard to maintain and deliver Northern Ireland’s 5-star aquarium and reptile attraction. The Senior Aquarist, reporting to the Head Keeper, provides suitable husbandry to the aquatic animals, including, but not limited to, daily observations of dietary and behavioural habits, cleaning and maintaining assigned exhibit and holding areas, tracking inventory, and keeping accurate and up to date records.

The Senior Aquarist will need to independently judge and use their initiative to problem solve when necessary, keeping animal welfare at the forefront of any decision.

The successful candidate will also be responsible for the daily oversight of the animal care team, ensuring that related projects are progressing, and leading the daily activities of Aquarists while serving as a role model.

Job Responsibilities:

• Works in collaboration with the head keeper to establish and maintain best practices based on industry standards to fulfil job responsibilities.

• Responsible for the daily care and husbandry of aquatic collections which include marine and freshwater fish, invertebrates, mammals and reptiles from temperate and tropical ecosystems.

• Practices good judgment in decision-making as related to animal care, emergency situations, and projects, particularly in the Head Keeper’s absence and with minimal interruptions to the public.

• Daily duties include but are not limited to: cleaning exhibits internally and externally, prepping and feeding food, treating any injured/diseased individuals as necessary, making observations and recognizing abnormal animal behaviour/appearance, acting upon/reporting such observations in a timely manner and completing all necessary records and paperwork thoroughly.

• Assists with acquiring specimens through organization of transfers/purchases with other zoological institutions, suppliers, and when required, by participation in collection.

• Assisting in veterinary procedures as necessary.

• Assist with procurement of supplies and equipment.

• Assists in the advancement and implementation of exhibit goals by contributing to the design and management of the exhibit development.

• Serves as the main point of contact between aquatics staff and the Head Keeper and is accountable in the Head Keeper’s absence.

• Under the direction of the Head keeper will assist with developing husbandry staff through training and increasing productivity and efficiency.

• Trains, develops, and oversees the work of work experience, Interns, and Trainee Aquarists.

• Fosters and supports a fun, team approach by having excellent interpersonal skills and a collaborative spirit.

• Leads by example by having a positive attitude, practicing high standards, modelling professional workplace behaviour, and maintaining a supportive team atmosphere.

• Taking a lead role in planning of events, public talks and outreach work.

• Any other duties as required by the Head Keeper

About you:

Essential Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Zoology or related field required OR equivalent experience.

• 3+ years of progressive levels of responsibility providing daily husbandry to a wide array of aquatic animals, preferably at a BIAZA-accredited institution. 1+ years of experience training/supervising others highly preferred.

• Knowledge of modern principles of animal care and welfare, including behavioural enrichment, exhibit design, nutrition, disease, training, water chemistry, animal transport, PVC plumbing, and Life Support Systems

• Must have experience with quarantine procedures and aquatic animal veterinary procedures.

• Specific knowledge of temperate and tropical ecosystems.

• Strong observational skills with a high attention to detail to ensure high animal welfare standards are maintained.

• Sound judgment and ability to use initiative for effective decision-making.

• Must have a valid full clean UK driver’s licence.

• Knowledge of safe animal handling practices and maintaining a safe working environment.

• Strong computer (MS Office programs such as Excel, Word, and Outlook) and organisational skills.

• Demonstrated leadership ability; experience mentoring others preferred and able to work with a diverse range of colleagues in order to get the job done.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.

• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.

• Willingness to work a flexible schedule which includes weekends and holidays as required.

Desirable Requirements

• Rescue Diver Certification or the ability to get the certification within 6 months of start.

• The ability to pass annual HSE dive physical requirements.

• Knowledge of HSE Scientific diving in a commercial setting.

• Experience in a variety of breeding programs including jellyfish, marine fish and crustaceans

• Experience of the culture of various live feeds used for nutrition of marine animals.

•  Experience working with mammals and reptiles

• Knowledge of Zoo licensing process

Closing date for applications is: 23rd Mar 2020

TO Apply for this vacancy:

Download and complete application form from: www.explorisni.com/careers

Please send all completed applications along with a CV to Matt@explorisni.com

What Makes a Good Zoo - A Personal Journey

Peter Dickinson Independent International Zoo Consultant +66 (0) 93 0835 862 | elvinhow@gmail.com https://iizc.org/ | Skype: peter.dickinson48

Head Keeper/Animal Manager

Head Keeper/Animal Manager

Exploris Aquarium

What we are looking for

This is a unique opportunity for an experienced manager to come and help us take care of our extensive collection of fish, reptiles and mammals.

Located in Portaferry, Northern Ireland.  We are a small privately-owned Aquarium & Seal Sanctuary. (supported by DAERA.) 

Reporting directly to the General Manager & Managing Director, the Head Keeper/Animal Manager will be responsible for all aspects of the management of the Aquariums livestock department.  You will be responsible for managing a dedicated team of Aquarists/Keepers, interns and volunteers to ensure that the highest standards of wellbeing including health and presentation of all stock and exhibits.  

This is a practical “hands on” role and the successful candidate will always be expected to work as part of the team as needed to ensure the efficient and safe operation of the department.

Innovation, motivation, efficiency and inspirational leader are the skills we are looking for within this role. 

Requirements

Essential; 

Experience 

• Minimum of 2 Years’ Experience in a similar role. 
• Extensive experience of working with a wide variety of reptiles, fish and mammals. 
• Experience of working in a similar position.
• Experience of creating and delivering new projects, including but not limited to enclosures and exhibits, which are delivered to the highest standards for both livestock and visitors.
• Experience of liaising with veterinary personnel and administering veterinary drugs and wormers
• Experience of delivering regular public talks, guided tours and educational programmes across various age groups and abilities.
• Experience in creating and maintaining Standard Operating Procedures.

Skills 

• Ability to confidently handle and restrain a range of species in a way to minimise stress and risk of injury to all involved.  Risk assessing each situation and guiding inexperienced staff on how to do this safely and correctly.
• Demonstrate the ability to communicate clearly and persuasively both orally and in writing.  
• Demonstrate the ability to decide on a course of action ensuring it is deliverable and the resources are available to implement the action.  Schedule the programme of work required, delegating as required to achieve the defined result.
• Demonstrate organisational, adaptability, self-motivated and good interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrate proven staff management skills with emphasis on mentoring and developing staff. 
• Demonstrate excellent team working skills, working with a specialist team in the first instance and then part of a wider team to deliver the organisations objectives. 
• Ability to work under pressure; and
• Full Clean Driving License

Desirable;

• Previous Experience working in a Seal Rehabilitation environment 
• First Aid Qualified 
• Knowledge of BIAZA policies and procedures 

Responsibilities 

STAFF MANAGEMENT

• Ensure the correct number of trained and competent staff are onsite daily to meet the husbandry and welfare needs of all fish, reptiles and mammals.
• All necessary training to be carried out and recorded.
• Work alongside and organise the work schedule for the Animal Department allocating staff as necessary to tasks ensuring an acceptable level of productivity by team members.
• It is the responsibility of the Head Keeper/Animal Manager working closely with the General Manager to ensure all new members of staff receive the correct Company induction and appropriate training within the department.  Ensure all training is documented.  Liaise with the Directors ensuring that correct procedures and training material are in place and adequate.  Ensure staff training records are up to date and reviewed on a minimum six-monthly basis.   
• Liaise with the General Manager/Directors when considering any training requests received.  
• Carry out appraisals within your team.
• Have proactive approach to dealing with Staff, working closely with the HR department when required
• Have a firm but fair approach, with a passion to invest and improve all team members in the department
• Be prepared to undertake any training and other courses as required.
• Work closely with other departments to the benefit of the Aquarium, a strong working relationship with Education, Entertainments and Marketing is important. 

LIVESTOCK MANAGEMENT

• The health and welfare of all livestock at the aquarium must be your top priority.  Ensure that a regular check is kept on the health of the stock and that staff update animal records on an ongoing basis.
• Pro-actively manage DEFRA licensing, APHA, EHO, and Zoo licensing standards.
• Provide assistance to the aquarist/keepers in the administration of medicines and wormers, ensuring medical records are kept up to date.
• Ensure dietary requirements to all livestock is always met to ensure welfare of the stock
• Ensure all enclosures are always in a clean and presentable condition for the benefit of both the inhabitants and visitors
• If any stock is thought to be unwell or in distress you will be required to liaise and work with our veterinary group (Downe Vets)
• To ensure the Livestock kitchens around site are always kept fully supplied and clean 
• Work closely with other collections and bodies to create good relationships for the sourcing and moving on of stock
• Work with bodies such as BIAZA when required or necessary 
• Ensure a high standard of maintenance of enclosures and exhibits throughout the aquarium so that these areas are presentable and interesting to our guests.
• Oversee the rehabilitation of seal pups including late night and early morning feeding. 
• Lead new Livestock projects to ensure the best possible experience to the stock and guests

HEALTH & SAFETY

Responsible for all aspects of health and safety as follows:

• Ensure the highest standards of Health and Safety are always met throughout the whole department. Instilling a “safety first” culture across all team members when carrying out their duties. 
• Liaise with the General Manager/Directors to ensure all departmental Risk Assessments and COSHH records are up to date.
• A policy of co-operation between all departments in the Aquarium exists and, if requested, it is expected that any assistance possible is offered to aid the smooth running of the Company.  In the same way assistance would be forthcoming to the Livestock Department should it be requested by you or your team

OTHER

• Ensure all interpretation signage is appropriate and up to date on all displays
• Liaise with other departments to ensure digital messaging on the Aquariums website, apps and printed media is up to date and relevant
• Work with other departments and team members to develop VIP and secondary spend opportunities
• To actively promote and improve our conservation work at every suitable opportunity
• To actively promote and improve our educational messaging at every suitable opportunity
• Be prepared to undertake any other duties as required from time to time to assist with the smooth running of the department

Flexibility 

• The Head Keeper/Animal Manager is expected to be available as necessary to ensure that the welfare and presentation of the collection(s) to visitors is always maintained to the highest standards. It is a requirement that either the General Manager, Head Keeper/Animal Manager or Directors be on-site every day.
• No set hours are laid down for this position but in general terms a five-day working week will be required including bank holidays and weekend days on a rota basis.  A start time of 9.00am is required to enable the organization of staff and an early inspection of animals to take place and generally a finishing time of 5.00/6.30 pm will be required depending on the time of year.

Benefits 

• 28 Days Paid Holidays 
• Branded Uniform (varies by job role/ department). In addition, any items you wear should be smart and appropriate. It is your responsibility to keep all items clean, laundered and presentable at all times.
• Workplace pension
• Complimentary staff tickets
• Staff Discount
• Free Parking
• Staff Meal deal

We are also offering a 3-month free accommodation package if required by the successful applicant.  This is located 10 minutes’ drive from the Aquarium. Includes, heating, electric and internet usage.

Salary: £25,000 P.A.

Closing date for applications is: 3rd Jan 2020

Download an application form today at www.explorisni.com/careers

Completed applications should be forwarded to kieran.quinn@explorisni.com

CLICK HERE TO READ THE LATEST ZOONEWS DIGEST AND POSTS BACK TO 1998

Peter Dickinson Independent International Zoo Consultant +66 (0) 93 0835 862 | elvinhow@gmail.com https://iizc.org/ | Skype: peter.dickinson48

Trainee Aquarist/Keeper

Trainee Aquarist/Keeper

Exploris Aquarium

What we are looking for:

This is a unique opportunity for willing candidates to come and help us take care of our extensive collection of fish, reptiles and mammals.  

Located in Portaferry, Northern Ireland.  We are a small privately-owned Aquarium & Seal Sanctuary. (supported by DAERA.)  

Reporting directly to the Head Keeper/Animal Manager & General Manager, the Trainee Aquarist/Keeper will be responsible for all aspects of the day to day needs of the Aquariums livestock department.  You will be responsible for ensuring that the highest standards of wellbeing including health and presentation of all stock and exhibits.   

This is a practical “hands on” role and the successful candidate will always be expected to work as part of the team as needed to ensure the efficient and safe operation of the department. It is a role where you will be given the time and training required for progression and personal development.

The role is ideal for someone who has a real willingness to learn and the patience to learn from their mistakes as they develop. 

Self-motivation is a key requirement for this role.

Aquarium Exploris expects all employees to work as a team in a friendly and professional environment. During busy periods we will require all employees to contribute in other areas of the business to ensure a smooth and professional service is delivered.  

Requirements

Essential: 

• Ability to work shift patterns to the needs of the business. 
• Ability to deal with the public comfortably and present information on a one to one and a group basis. 
• Someone who has the desire to learn and develop animal husbandry skills. 
• Proficient in Microsoft Office 
• Full UK Driving License 
• Someone willing to complete requires maintenance on Tanks & Enclosures e.g. Power washing, Display & Pipe work etc. 

Desirable:

• Previous experience in a similar role 
• Experience in seal rehabilitation 

Responsibilities

• Carry out feeding duties 
• Running aquarium tanks and systems 
• Maintain up to date tank displays 
• Monitoring of water quality and fish stock quality 
• Dealing with alarm issues of tanks that may arise during or after work  
• Develop and maintain education and conservation program 
• Carry out talks while performing duties 
• To ensure aquarium is cleaned daily and is maintained in a hygienic manner. 
• To observe fire, health and safety rules and procedures and to partake in fire and accident drills. 
• To ensure that all materials and equipment are not left in a hazardous state. 
• To wear protective clothing and eye protection when dealing with any chemicals or hazardous materials. 
• To immediately report any leaks, equipment failure or any other condition you would not deem normal. 
• To ensure stock control and rotation procedures are carried out where applicable.
• Power washing of seal pools, Otter River and other enclosures as required

The above list is not exhaustive, and the role will include other duties not detailed here. 

Flexibility 

• The Trainee Aquarist/Keeper is expected to be available as necessary to ensure that the welfare and presentation of the collection(s) to visitors is always maintained to the highest standards. 
• No set hours are laid down for this position but in general terms a five-day working week will be required including bank holidays and weekend days on a rota basis.  A start time of 9.00am is required to enable the organization of staff and an early inspection of animals to take place and generally a finishing time of 5.00/6.30 pm will be required depending on the time of year. 

Benefits 

• 28 Days Paid Holidays  
• Branded Uniform (varies by job role/ department). In addition, any items you wear should be smart and appropriate. It is your responsibility to keep all items clean, laundered and presentable at all times. 
• Workplace pension 
• Complimentary staff tickets 
• Staff Discount 
• Free Parking 
• Staff Meal deal 

We are also offering a 3-month free accommodation package if required by the successful applicant.  This is located 10 minutes’ drive from the Aquarium. Includes, heating, electric and internet usage.  

To apply for this job:

Download and complete application form which can be found at:

https://www.explorisni.com/careers

Email your applications to: info@explorisni.com

Post: Careers, Exploris Aquarium, The Rope Walk, Castle Street, Portaferry, BT22 1NZ

CLICK HERE TO READ THE LATEST ZOONEWS DIGEST AND POSTS BACK TO 1998

Peter Dickinson Independent International Zoo Consultant +66 (0) 93 0835 862 | elvinhow@gmail.com https://iizc.org/ | Skype: peter.dickinson48