Dive into a career that makes a splash! π¦
SEA LIFE at Mall of America is looking for a passionate and dedicated Aquarist II to join our Displays Team! If you love caring for marine life, working underwater, and inspiring guests to protect our oceans, this could be the perfect next step in your aquatic journey. ππ’
This is a full-time, benefited position — and yes, you’ll get to dive with sharks, rays, sea turtles, and more (how cool is that?!). π¦π π’
As an Aquarist II, you’ll be responsible for the daily care and maintenance of a variety of tropical and temperate marine, freshwater, reptile, and amphibian exhibits. You’ll assist in animal husbandry, diving, life support system operations, and guest interactions — all while ensuring world-class standards of animal welfare and exhibit presentation.
From hand-feeding fish to maintaining massive ocean displays, this role combines science, animal care, and a touch of adventure every single day. βοΈπ€Ώ
π‘ Provide daily care for aquatic animals — from feeding to tank maintenance and habitat enrichment.
π Maintain accurate daily logs for animal health, water quality, and dive operations.
π§ Conduct water quality testing, assist with treatments, and ensure top-notch water conditions.
π€Ώ Participate in underwater maintenance and public dive shows in our stunning 200,000-gallon tropical ocean display.
𧽠Keep dive gear and equipment maintained and organized per SEA LIFE protocols.
π Assist with specimen transport, quarantine, and life support operations.
π€ Engage with guests through interactive presentations and educational talks — inspire the next generation of ocean lovers! π
π¦ Collaborate with the Displays Team to continuously improve exhibits and animal care.
π§ Meet and maintain AZA, USDA, and Merlin Health & Safety standards.
π 2–3 years of professional aquarium experience (marine or freshwater) with a variety of aquatic species.
π Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences (Marine Biology, Zoology, Biology, etc.) or an accredited aquarium science program.
π€Ώ Valid Open Water SCUBA certification (Rescue Diver preferred) and 1–2 years of recent dive experience in a large exhibit (70,000+ gallons).
πͺ Comfortable diving with sharks, rays, eels, and turtles — and performing underwater maintenance and guest dives.
βοΈ Knowledge of water chemistry and experience using testing equipment for pH, salinity, ammonia, nitrate, etc.
π‘ Familiarity with life support systems (sand filters, UV sterilizers, skimmers, ozone, etc.).
𧬠Understanding of fish disease diagnosis, treatments, and necropsy procedures.
π£ Excellent communication skills — both for teamwork and guest presentations.
π Leadership and mentoring skills to help support fellow Aquarists and Husbandry Assistants.
Safety — for both animals and humans — is our top priority! You’ll follow all SEA LIFE and Merlin Entertainments health and safety policies, ensure proper risk assessments are completed, and respond to any incidents with care and professionalism.
Typical schedule: Sun–Thu or Tue–Sat, 7:00 AM–3:30 PM.
Must be able to work weekends, holidays, and on-call rotations as needed.
Expect an active, hands-on environment — lifting up to 50 lbs, climbing, kneeling, and working around water.
Work areas may include varying temperatures, wet floors, and loud sounds (our ocean display can be quite chatty!). ππ¦
Be part of a global family with Merlin Entertainments — one of the world’s leading attraction operators. π
Enjoy exclusive perks: free attraction tickets, discounts, and professional development opportunities. ποΈ
Work alongside amazing animals and passionate conservationists every day. π’
Inspire guests to protect our oceans and wildlife through education and engagement. π
Be Adaptable: The ocean’s always changing — and so are we!
Collaborate: Teamwork makes the reef work. π€
Communicate Effectively: Clear signals above and below the surface.
Ensure Accountability: Care deeply, act responsibly. π§
Are you ready to dive deeper into your passion for marine life? π
Apply today and help us make waves at SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium — Mall of America! π π
π Benefits of Joining Merlin Entertainments! π
π₯ Excellent Health Care Options: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
π΄ Outstanding Paid Time Off (PTO): Enjoy well-deserved breaks to recharge!
π’ Merlin Magic Pass: Free entry for friends and family to our amazing parks & attractions. π‘
π Recognition Programs and Rewards: Celebrate your achievements and hard work!
πΌ 401(k) Program: Save for the future with company matching contributions.
π Tuition Reimbursement Programs: Get support for further education and career growth.
π Numerous Learning and Advancement Opportunities: Grow your skills and advance your career with us!
Ready to be a part of the magic? Apply today and start your adventure with Merlin Entertainments! πβ¨
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