Position Title: Keeper Aquarist – Part Time
Department: Husbandry
Reports To: Curator of Aquatics
Location: Audubon Aquarium & Audubon Insectarium
Position Type: Part-Time
Who We Are
Audubon Nature Institute comprises Audubon Park, Audubon Zoo, Audubon Aquarium, Audubon Insectarium, Audubon Louisiana Nature Center, Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center, Audubon Center for Research of Endangered Species, Woldenberg Riverfront Park, and Audubon Wilderness Park
At Audubon Nature Institute, we are more than a collection of parks, museums, and conservation centers—we are a dedicated team with a shared mission to celebrate, protect, and connect people to the wonders of nature. Our work is guided by our culture code, which is at the heart of everything we do. We believe in Activating Impact by integrating tangible, real-world outcomes into all our initiatives, fostering a culture where every action contributes to a positive environmental impact. We are committed to Empowering Optimism, using positivity to inspire others to act and believe in their capacity to create meaningful change. We strive to Create Connection by engaging with people from all walks of life, knowing that the collective strength of a diverse community can address the most pressing challenges facing our natural world. At Audubon, we embody the spirit of Le Bon Temps, infusing the joy and vibrant culture of Louisiana into our everyday work, celebrating our unique heritage while advancing our mission. As Leaders of the Pack, we constantly seek smarter, innovative solutions, challenging conventions to drive the change we want to see in the world.
What You’ll Do
The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas is looking for a motivated individual to add to its Husbandry staff as a keeper for a diverse collection of fishes. This is an entry-level, part-time position working 29 hours a week on a set schedule. This position works with the Husbandry team to accomplish established goals aimed at excellence in animal care and guest experience. Must have the ability to work weekends and holidays possess a valid driver’s license.
Day to Day Responsibilities
- Provides a high standard of animal care. Understanding of professional animal care and welfare standards. Prioritizes preventative care and excellence in animal welfare.
- A basic knowledge of water chemistry and the nitrogen cycle for water quality monitoring.
- Follow training (operant conditioning) and enrichment SOPs to accomplish behavior and welfare goals.
- Administers prescribed treatments and assists with procedures as needed.
- Follows direction and act in accordance with all established protocols and procedures. Compliance with all AZA and USDA standards. Follows all SOPs as written to facilitate good animal welfare and safety.
- Responsible for all aspects of exhibit maintenance. Able to accomplish daily tasks within acceptable/ established timeframe.
- Monitors exhibit functionality, air and water parameters, identifying and communicating anomalies/ concerns in a timely fashion.
- Accurate recordkeeping for short- and long-term monitoring of health, behavior, tracking trends and advancing animal practices.
- Participation in professional development as assigned.
- Ability to communicate effectively and work with a team to provide consistency and advancement in animal care. Assists with oversight of volunteers and interns.
- Ability to engage guests in pursuit of education and conservation goals. This includes chats, tours, media appearances, ambassador animal programs, etc. Able to represent Audubon Nature Institute with professionalism and in support of mission-oriented efforts.
Additional/Overall Skills
- Maintain a positive attitude and a strong sense of accountability, fostering a collaborative team environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute.
- Thrive in a team environment, using your organizational and technical skills to ensure the smooth execution of creative projects that resonate with our audience.
- Celebrate the successes of your team and bring enthusiasm to your work, reflecting the joyful culture that is at the heart of Audubon’s mission.
- Stay adaptable and open to learning new skills, embracing change and innovation as opportunities to lead and grow.
- The above listed duties are general statements of required major duties and responsibilities performed on a regular and continuous basis. They do not exclude other duties as assigned.
What We’re Looking For
Must Haves
- High School diploma (or equivalent) and a degree from a recognized college or university are required. College course work in zoology, biology, animal science or related field is preferred.
- Accurate oral and written communication skills.
- Minimum of one year of unpaid or paid experience in a zoological facility, public aquarium, or similar facility OR demonstrated and confirmed skill set.
- Understanding/ experience with care of aquatic animals/ systems in a professional setting with demonstrated success. Experience at AZA accredited public facility is preferred.
- Has understanding/ experience with the species under their care or has worked with similar taxa. Has an understanding of natural history, anatomy, behavior, and environmental parameters.
- Possess a valid driver’s license.
Nice-to-Haves: (preferred for the role)
- SCUBA certification strongly preferred.
- First Aid/CPR preferred
Physical Requirements: (Add per list provided based on role type)
- Continuous standing, walking, lifting, bending, and twisting.
- Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry objects weighing over 50 pounds, often repeatedly.
- Regularly climbing ladders and operating heavy machinery.
- Sustained manual dexterity and coordination.
- Physical stamina for long shifts involving repetitive or strenuous tasks.
- Primarily outdoor environments or industrial settings.
- Frequent exposure to heat, cold, dust, fumes, or loud noises.
- Exposure to potential hazards such as heavy machinery, moving vehicles, or electrical equipment.
- Must be willing and able to handle raw seafood.
