Aquarium Supervisor

General Position Description:

As Aquarium Supervisor for Aquarena Center, Texas State University, the incumbent is responsible for maintaining a commercial aquarium designed to communicate the unique aquatic habitats of the Edwards Artesian Aquifer and its spring systems. The position requires extensive interaction with the public and strong working relationship with the education coordinator and the supervisor of boats & tours. Because endangered species are involved, a working relationship with state and federal officials must be established. The scope of duties includes maintenance and repair of existing aquaria, care and feeding of aquarium specimens, collection and acquisition of new specimens, supervision of employees, interns and volunteers. Additional duties include environmental interpretation, planning and developing new exhibits, water quality testing, maintaining accurate activity records, disease diagnosis and treatment. The incumbent reports directly to the director of the center and will be required to participate in planning and budgeting for aquarium activities.

Working Conditions:

Hours are flexible with weekend and holiday work required. The candidate must be able to respond to emergency situations as they arise. The position will require working in wet conditions, some heavy lifting and general mechanical skills.

Minimum Qualifications:

A bachelor’s degree in biology, fisheries, environmental science, or related field and enrollment in the graduate school at Texas State University. Scuba certifications a plus.

Knowledge, Skill, and Abilities:

Knowledge of aquarium systems, design and function
Knowledge of ecology of Edwards Aquifer and Guadalupe Blanco river basin
Knowledge of warm water fisheries and fish culture
Knowledge of endangered species of the springs and aquifer
Knowledge of pump,thermal controls, filtration systems and aeration systems
Knowledge of general water chemistry
Knowledge of fish diseases and appropriate treatments
Knowledge of state and federal laws governing endangered and threatened species
Skill in maintenance, calibration, and proper use of water quality instruments
Skill in basic plumbing
Skill in fish handling and transporting
Ability to work as part of team to effectively communicate the theme of the center
Ability to communicate effectively with the public through environmental interpretation
Ability to diagnose and solve problems occurring the aquarium system

APPLICATION