Aquarist Intern

Position Overview:

We’re looking for just the right person to join the Absolutely Fish team as an Aquarist Intern. The Intern’s primary areas of focus will be to assist with the daily care of aquatic live animals at Absolutely Fish with a separate focus at the Aquaculture Facility in Garfield.

About You: You should have a strong interest in working with aquatic animals. Prior experience is not necessary, however a passion for scientific focused learning is a plus. Ideal candidates will have some background knowledge of marine aquarium keeping and be highly motivated, detail-oriented, and willing to perform repetitive animal care tasks. You should be in good physical condition with the ability to lift a minimum of 50 lbs and climb up a 4-foot ladder. 

Key Responsibilities

·        Study aquatic animal compatibility, the nitrogen cycle, and scientific nomenclature of animals in preparation for aquarist tests.

·        Contribute to providing continual care for aquatic animals including invertebrates, marine and freshwater fishes. Tasks include maintenance of life support systems, water quality monitoring, food preparation, feeding, and animal observation.

·        Maintain cleanliness of all tanks and department work areas.

·        Assist staff in repair/redesign of existing aquatic systems and other projects if needed.

·        Conduct precise record keeping

·        Assist in providing the best animal care with compassion

·        Maintain live foods cultures including rotifers and Artemia

·        Other duties and responsibilities as assigned. 

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge: A broad knowledge of ecological and biological principals, especially those relating to marine life and aquaria.

Skills: A background in fish keeping is a plus.

Abilities: Must possess good communication skills and be a team player. Being detail-oriented, proficient, and self-motivated are important qualities we are looking for.

Preferred Qualifications and Experience

A commitment of at least 3 months for 10 hours a week is required.

Must be in college, majoring in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science or related field.

Work Culture at a Glimpse

Schedule: This is a part-time unpaid position. The ideal candidate must be available to attend training sessions and work weekday afternoons.

Travel: This position will travel between the storefront in Clifton and the aquaculture facility in Garfield.

Physical Demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee must be able to stand for long periods of time while working with staff. The ability to lift 50 pounds and to climb up a 4-ft ladder is required. Working in saltwater aquariums will be a daily occurrence. 

Benefits:

·        25% discount at Absolutely Fish (40% after one month of interning)

·        Rupel rewards program will apply to current interns

·        $50 Per Week Stipend for Gas and Food

·        Job opportunity following internship conclusion

To apply: Please visit our careers page on our website at: https://absolutelyfish.com/careers/, then submit your resume and cover letter highlighting why you are a perfect fit for this position.

Absolutely Fish Inc. is a national leader in the sales and service of freshwater and marine tropical fish, aquariums, and supplies. We have been recognized and awarded numerous times for outstanding service to the community and environmental conservation.

Absolutely Fish is proud to provide an equal opportunity workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, genetics, gender identity, or veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of such characteristics or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the location where we operate.