Job Description:
We are looking for a highly motivated Aquarist Techician to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for building and maintaining a variety of aquaria throughout Greater Victoria, as well as work alongside our Education Coordinator to develop educational content presented in our Seaquaria in School program and at the Gorge Waterway Nature House that focus on local environmental stewardship, endangered and invasive species, ecosystems, watersheds, restoration activities, and First Nations cultural linkages. They will also assist with aquarium take downs and with the maintenance of the wet lab, overseeing animal care, feedings and water quality management.
The Aquarist Technician will be responsible for assisting with the maintenance and repair of approximately 20 different aquaria used in the Seaquaria Ocean Education program, assist in the construction of new Seaquaria, participate in specimen collection and delivery and collaborate with a team to develop strong inter-project communication. Tasks will also include assisting with public outreach, using hands-on activities such as a watershed model and a mobile Seaquarium filled with marine animals. Public outreach will take place at community events throughout the CRD, including Saanich and Esquimalt, throughout the period of employment. The youth will also be involved in the planning and coordination of special events. Maintaining safe work conditions and consistent and professional communication with volunteers, community members, and co-workers will be part of their duties.
Being a team player as well as be able to work independently, maintaining consistent and professional communication with volunteers, community groups, and co-workers is essential. Flexibility in the candidate’s schedule is necessary to reflect the dynamic nature of this position.
The Aquarist and Marine Education Support Officer will:
Create and maintain the aquaria used in the Seaquaria in Schools program, which provides schools with a unique opportunity to learn more about their local marine ecosystems through a permanently installed aquarium in their school;
Lead set ups and take-downs of these tanks at the beginning and end of the academic year, as well as respond to any tank repairs/upgrades that may need to happen during the summer;
Assist in developing, delivering and evaluating integrated, hand-on environmental and science education programs in classrooms, online, and in the field. Programs will be geared to strengthen multidisciplinary learning;
Update and create program resources including lesson plans, activities, and worksheets;
Assist with organization and delivery of professional development workshops for teachers and volunteers;
Assist with specimen and water collection as required;
Maintain outreach communication efforts by
Updating and maintaining Seaquaria.org with new events, information, and other resources
Participate in social media communications for World Fisheries Trust
Writing copy for monthly email newsletters.
Organize and deliver educational programs at the Gorge Waterway Nature House, for classes and the general public;
Assist in research projects as needed;
Perform other duties as required.
Qualifications Required:
Post-secondary degree in biology, environmental studies, or related field;
An understanding of marine animal biology and ecological principles;
Experience working with youth and groups;
Experience developing and delivering educational programs;
Experience organizing volunteers;
Experience with website and online communications an asset;
Valid driver’s license (use of own car may be required on occasion);
First Aid certification, and CPR-C (may be provided);
Willingness to submit a Criminal Record Check.
Eligibility Criteria:
Is between 15 and 30 years of age (inclusive) at the start of employment;
Is a Canadian Citizen, permanent resident, or person on whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act;
Is legally entitled to work according to the relevant provincial / territorial legislation and regulations.
How to Apply:
Applicants should send a resume and cover letter outlining why they would be a great fit for the position to our team at jobs@worldfish.org by May 6, 2020.