Salary: $29.01 - $36.04 Hourly

Location : Tacoma, WA

Job Type: Career Full-time Represented

Job Number: StaffBioAq2023

Department: Zoological and Environmental Education

Opening Date: 10/04/2024

Closing Date: 10/13/2024 11:59 PM Pacific

Job Description

Based on our internal equity review process, the starting salary for this position will be $29.01
The current full hourly range for this position is $29.01 - $36.04 Hourly

Work where you play!
Join our team at Metro Parks Tacoma to put your skills to use serving your community and making Tacoma a vibrant, healthy, and welcoming place to live.

Who We Are
Metro Parks Tacoma (MPT) is a CAPRA-accredited and AZA-accredited, independent park district that leads efforts to build a healthy, sustainable community. Located in Tacoma, Washington, Metro Parks' mission is to create healthy opportunities to play, learn, and grow. The independent park district spans the city providing a wide range of life-enriching destinations and services, including 70+ parks, 80+ miles of trails, 1,000+ acres of urban forest, 66 playgrounds, four community centers, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, Point Defiance Park, and much more. Our work is guided by eight core values that are the foundation of our actions and goals: innovation, excellence, equity, inclusiveness, sustainability, accountability, safety, and fun.

Why You'll Love it Here
Come work where you play! You will contribute to the overall vitality and well-being of your community when you work for Metro Parks Tacoma, and you'll do so as part of a supportive team of committed, passionate, and mission-driven professionals. The people of Metro Parks are the key to its success, and you just might be the next great addition to our team. You'll receive a competitive wage, along with an attractive benefits package, including medical, dental, retirement, vacation, holidays, and much more. On top of that, you'll wake each day knowing that you're helping make Tacoma a great place to call home.

Position Information
Under the direction of a General or Aquatic Animal Curator and the assigned Assistant Curator, perform a variety of skilled duties involved in the care, observation, maintenance, propagation and management of assigned aquatic animal species and the display of such species to the general public in an educational and attractive manner.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:

The Staff Biologist performs a variety of specialized aquatic work including behavioral enrichment training and observation, animal health care, documentation of behavior and activity and related duties involved in providing overall care to an assigned animal group at the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium. Must understand basic water chemistry and be able to operate aquatic life support systems. Must be an active scuba diver and be comfortable working in and around water and aquatic exhibits. Must understand basic biology and ecology of the marine fish and invertebrates held and displayed in the aquariums at PDZA.

In the performance of their respective tasks and duties all employees are expected to:

Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.
Interact professionally with other employees, customers and suppliers.
Work effectively as a team contributor on all assignments.
Work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.
Observe applicable safety requirements, use safety equipment provided, implement appropriate safety practices at all times and report immediately any unsafe working conditions or hazards.

Essential Duties

Perform husbandry duties in the aquarium setting which includes temperate and tropical species of fish and invertebrates from the Pacific Rim.

Observe animal species on assigned schedule to determine physical and behavioral health and well being; check animals for abnormalities and report condition to appropriate Curator or veterinarian. Provide behavioral training as appropriate and directed for animals assigned to incumbent's care.

Understand basic water chemistry and be able to operate aquatic life support systems.

Be an active SCUBA diver and be comfortable working in and around water and aquatic exhibits.

Understand basic biology and ecology of the marine fish and invertebrates held and displayed in the aquariums at PDZA.

Be familiar with common fish diseases and parasites and appropriate treatments.

Know how to handle and transport fish and invertebrates safely.

Clean animal exhibits and holding areas to assure the health of animals and the presentation of the species in an attractive environment.

Prepare, store and distribute food according to established amounts, types and diets; monitor feeding habits and report any changes or abnormalities; monitor food levels to assure sufficient quantities. Prepare and administer medications, food supplements and vitamins.

Perform routine maintenance and minor repair of animal exhibits and related systems; prepare new exhibits and input regarding exhibit design and renovation to facilitate cleaning, enhance viewing and improve living conditions for the animals.

Provide appropriate enrichment to animals in assigned areas of responsibility.

Communicate with the public regarding animals and related matters; answer questions and assure proper presentation of animals in various formats.

Maintain records and reports regarding assigned species including animal condition reports; conduct research regarding animal species as needed; prepare daily reports, health reports and other reports specific to the assigned area.

Maintain water quality to keep aquatic animals in a healthy condition.

Perform behavioral observations; patrol assigned areas of the Zoo or Trek and visually check on animals; perform or arrange for corrective action if problems arise.

Move and remove animal species to different areas or exhibits as determined by proper care, feeding and safety methods.

Provide work direction and assist in training volunteers and part-time animal care personnel as assigned; attend staff meetings, educational conferences and seminars as needed.

Communicate with the Aquatic Animal Curator and Assistant Curator regarding needed supplies, problems regarding exhibits, animal health or public safety issues or concerns. Communicate with veterinarians regarding animal health matters; provide assistance in catching or restraining animals in accordance with established safety procedures to administer health care.

Provide input regarding the collecting, purchase, transfer, propagation or trading of animal species as needed. Conduct and/or participate in conservation programs to assist in the propagation, education, enforcement and other activities related to long-term conservation of assigned species.

Assure the safety of animals, employees and the visiting public from injury or mishap

Other duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
Three years of experience as an aquarist involving the care and husbandry of fish and invertebrates in a zoo, aquarium, theme park or related environment, preferably in an AZA accredited facility, required. Bachelor's degree in biology, zoology or related field preferred. Equivalent education and experience including related volunteer and intern experience considered.

Must have rescue diver SCUBA certification and experience in the use of underwater techniques for the collection of fish and invertebrate species with cold water diving experience. Must stay current with diving requirements set by PDZA diving control board.

LICENSE & OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

Valid Washington driver's license with acceptable driving record.
Obtain a valid First Aid and CPR Card within the probationary period.
Obtain and maintain a valid SCUBA diving certification when assigned to the aquarium.

Additional Information

ENVIRONMENT:
Indoor and outdoor environment throughout the year
Adverse weather conditions.
Cold water while interacting with animals and cleaning exhibits.
Confined or dark work areas.

PHYSICAL ABILITIES:
Lifting, carrying and moving heavy objects or animals weighing up to 80 pounds.
Pushing. Climbing. Standing. Ladders. Walking up, down and sideways on uneven and/or slippery surfaces.
Kneeling, crouching and bending to work with and feed animals.
Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate specialized equipment and tools.

HAZARDS:
Exposure to potentially dangerous and sick animals and zoonotic diseases.
Exposure to animal fecal matter, urine and other bodily discharges
Chemicals, fumes, odors, poor ventilation and noise.
Contact with dissatisfied visitors.

KNOWLEDGE OF:

Principles of animal husbandry including animal behavior, care, maintenance and management.
Animal species natural history and biology, especially marine fish and invertebrates.
Dietary requirements of the large number of species displayed in the aquarium.
Diseases and other health issues of the aquarium animal collection.
Basic water chemistry and principals of water filtration and life support operations.
Applicable local, State, federal and AZA regulations.
Scientific research methods.
Safe and proper handling and transportation of aquatic animals.
Requirements of maintaining exhibits in a safe, clean and orderly condition.
Exhibit design and lighting and basic display principals.
Proper methods of storing equipment, materials and supplies.
AZA Conservation and Science programs.
Operant conditioning techniques.

ABILITY TO:

Work in close contact with potentially dangerous animals.
Operate and maintain a variety of related tools, equipment and machinery.
Fabricate specialty equipment and devices for aquatic husbandry and display.
Provide work direction to others as assigned.
Observe animals for physical and behavioral health.
Perform various animal husbandry duties for assigned species including cleaning, feeding, collection, maintenance and management of animals.
Perform work to assure the safety of animals, employees and the visiting public.
Interpret rules and regulations.
Perform emergency first aid and CPR as needed and according to established guidelines.
Communicate clearly verbally and in writing.
Assess and evaluate situations effectively.
Exert optimal effort in successfully completing tasks.
Take initiative with minimal supervision.
Extract and record data and carry out calculations accurately.
Set up and operate equipment that can require selection from options or different settings.
Manage time efficiently and effectively through scheduling and prioritizing.
Work within and contribute to the effectiveness of a team, respecting differences.
Report for work regularly and on time.

METRO PARKS TACOMA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.
All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, political affiliation, disability or any other merit factor. Members of ethnic minorities, women, special disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam-era, recently separated veterans, and other protected veterans, persons of disability and/or persons age 40 and over are encouraged to apply.

MPT employs only U.S. citizens and lawfully authorized non-U.S. citizens. All new employees must show employment eligibility verification as required by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

MPT is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact Human Resources at

Employment is subject to a national background check.

This position is a represented position with the International Union of Operating Engineers.

OVERVIEW (more detailed information can be found at )

Life Insurance: Provided at no cost to the employee through Unum, amount is equal to annual salary up to $275,000. Benefits will reduce at age 70.

Retirement Plan: All employees are covered under the Public Employees' Retirement System through the Washington State Department of Retirement Services (DRS).

Medical Coverage and Dental Coverage: Metro Parks Tacoma pays 90% of the total cost of medical/dental coverage for employees and their dependents. Coverage begins the first of the month following the date of employment. Medical coverage is offered through Kaiser. Dental options include Delta Dental Service and Willamette Dental.

Health Care and Day Care Reimbursement Accounts: A benefit plan that allows you to pay for health care or dependent care expenses with "before tax" dollars.

Deferred Compensation (457 plan): Optional employee paid retirement savings plans are available through Empower, MissionSquare, and WA State Deferred Comp Program.

Paid Holidays for career employees: New Years Day, Martin Luther King's Birthday, President's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Juneteenth, Labor Day, Veteran's Day, Thanksgiving Day, Day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, Two Floating Holidays are granted after successful completion of the probationary period

Vacation: 8 hours earned monthly.

Sick Leave: 8 hours earned monthly.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) -SupportLinc provides emotional wellbeing and work-life balance resources to keep you at your best. Administered by CuraLinc Healthcare, the program offers guidance to help you address and resolve everyday issues at no cost to you or your family.

Community Center Fitness Pass - All Metro Parks Tacoma employees get a Staff Pass to use at our community centers.The All Center Pass allows access to all four centers - Center at Norpoint, Eastside Community Center, People's Center and STAR Center.

Did you know... Benefits at Metro Parks Tacoma include more than the great options for medical, dental and vision. There is so much more to our overall compensation package. Here are a few highlights:

Beyond Medical, Dental and Vision: All medical plans include Naturopathy, Massage therapy and Chiropractic care (some restrictions apply). See the benefits summaries for more information.
An Ounce of Prevention is Better Than a Pound of Cure: Stay ahead of the game by taking advantage of the quality preventative care our plans have to offer. Preventative care is covered at 100% so you are not charged the deductible or pay co-insurance for preventative care. See the benefits summaries for more information.
Tax Free Health Accounts: MPT offers Flexible Spending Account options that allow you to set aside money on a pretax basis for out of pocket medical and/or childcare expenses. Sign up at the start of the year with open enrollment. If you have chosen the High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP), you will receive a Health Savings Account with an employer provided contribution. Check out the benefits page for more information.
Be Ready for Retirement: Retirement plan options include the required PERS contributions AND also several Deferred Compensation Plan (457 plan) Options. Retirement savings can help you set yourself up for success now (lowering your federal income tax threshold through savings on a pre-tax basis) and later. Check out the benefits page for more information.
Everyone Needs a Helping Hand: Employee Assistance Program - this program offers confidential, professional AND FREE 24/7 resources to all Metro Parks Tacoma employees. The program offers resources for things like: counseling, legal and financial services, ID theft victim resources, Daily living information, elder and child care, stress reduction tools, website access, newsletters, webinars and more.
Preparing for the Unexpected: Life Insurance & Accidental Death/Dismemberment Insurance is paid for by MPT and at no cost career employees . The amount is equal to your annual salary up to $200k. Check out the benefits page for more information.
Getting Fit: Fitness Center Pass - ALL MPT employees are eligible to use our fitness facilities and even participate in many class at various community centers for FREE!
Checking Out All That MPT Offers the Community: Employees are provided an annual familiarization pass that becomes their passport to explore a variety of opportunities available throughout the District.
Supporting Work/Life Balance: Alternative Work Arrangements - Some positions have the option to remote work upon meeting requirements. This is a great benefit as it allows MPT to reduce our carbon footprint and employees to achieve better work/life balance.
Taking a Break: All MPT employees receive sick leave and career employees receive excellent Sick, Vacation and Holiday leave packages.
Making a Difference: There are multiple ways to make a difference beyond the work you do. MPT employees can contribute to the Legacy Campaign through payroll deduction (or one time payment). You can also participate in a Day of Service with permission from your supervisor, be a member of the dragon boat team, donate blood at one of our member blood drives, or volunteer with our partner organizations.

Note: THIS BENEFIT OVERVIEW IS FOR INFORMATION ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED CONTRACT. ANY PROVISION CONTAINED HEREIN MAY BE MODIFIED AND/OR REVOKED WITHOUT NOTICE.

01

Do you have at least three years of experience as an aquarist involving the care and husbandry of fish and invertebrates in a zoo, aquarium, theme park or related environment,

02

Do you have a rescue diver SCUBA certification and experience in the use of underwater techniques for the collection of fish and invertebrate species with cold water diving experience?

03

Please explain, in detail, your specific experience and skill sets as it relates to the job description.

04

Please indicate if you have a valid driver's license and if you have any driving tickets, accidents and/or infractions listed on your abstract of complete driving record? (Please note: if selected for further review you may be required to provide a complete driving abstract).

Required Question

Metro Parks Tacoma jobs

Staff Biologist - Aquarium