Careers

Please email a Resume and Cover Letter to: jobs@aquarium.org

This part-time (24 hours) position is non-exempt according to the Fair Labor Standards Act.

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

POSITION TITLE: Ambassador Animal Care Specialist (Part-Time)

REPORTS TO: Learning & Engagement Manager

JOB SUMMARY: Under the direction of the Learning & Engagement Manager, the Ambassador Animal Care Specialist is responsible for the care of Mission Engagement Department ambassador animals, including daily diets, maintaining the cleanliness and safety of all animal areas, and implementing outlined training protocols. In addition, the Ambassador Animal Care Specialist presents ambassador animals in public presentations as scheduled.

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Participates in the daily cleaning, feeding, and husbandry of ambassador animals in accordance with standards set by the Learning & Engagement Manager.
2. Reports unusual conditions or behaviors to the team and assists in their evaluation and treatment as needed, and in accordance with manager and veterinarian recommendations.
3. Under the direction of the Learning & Engagement Manager and Senior Ambassador Animal Care Specialist, utilizes designated protocols to train husbandry and natural behaviors.
4. Participates in ambassador animal public presentations.
5. Records daily observations, training sessions, and diet consumption. Maintains animal care, enrichment, and animal program participation records in TRACKS.
6. Participates in specimen collection and/or transport as needed.
7. Serves as a positive representative of the Oregon Coast Aquarium while interacting with diverse audiences.
8. Participates in training of volunteers, practicum students, or interns on various tasks as necessary and leading by example.
9. Participates on the Aquarium enrichment committee and/or welfare committee as a Mission Engagement Department representative. Contributes as appropriate and acts as a liaison between the department and committee.

The above accountabilities represent work performed by this position and are not all-inclusive. The omission of a specific accountability will not preclude it from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical extension of the position.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

N/A

KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (Minimum levels)

Related college degree (Associates) and background in biology, zoology, or a related science is required. Three years’ experience caring for animals is required. Animal training experience and understanding of operant conditioning and animal enrichment is required.

Skills necessary for this position include excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Strong writing and verbal skills are essential. Knowledge of and ability to use computers and standard, commonly accepted computer programs is required. The incumbent must be highly detail-oriented and adept at problem solving. The ability to work under limited supervision, both independently and in a team environment is required. The incumbent must also have excellent time management and organizational skills.

Incumbents must have the ability to:

• Observe animals for any signs of illness or injury, monitor eating patterns, and note any changes in behavior.
• Effectively implement operant conditioning training procedures for a variety of animals.
• Communicate effectively with guests and staff.
• Work well under direction and have the capacity to receive feedback from peers and/or manager; seek consultation from coworkers and/or manager.
• Remain stimulated while doing routine tasks.
• Work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
• Interpret rules and regulations; follow all safety protocols.
• Assess and evaluate situations effectively and with flexibility.
• Exert optimal effort in successfully completing tasks.
• Work within and contribute to the effectiveness of a team, respecting differences.
• Respond in a calm manner to emergencies.Climb stairs; move 50 pounds when necessary.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The work involves remaining stationary and moving through the facility. The work includes moving equipment up to 50 pounds, reaching and stretching with hands and arms; and kneeling, crouching, or crawling. Some programs and tasks are conducted outside, and staff is exposed to various weather conditions.

MENTAL, HEARING, AND VISUAL DEMANDS:

The work involves learning and remembering new information, problem solving, and making decisions. When conducting programs or working with animals, the work involves focusing and paying visual attention to assure the safety of program participants and animals.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Work is performed both indoors and outdoors. May be exposed to cold, wet, or humid conditions. Some sedentary work is required when performing administrative duties at a computer station.

The incumbent must also be willing to work holidays and occasional evenings.

ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS:

Compliance with appropriate company standards is required.

Please email a Resume and Cover Letter to: jobs@aquarium.org

This is a Full-Time position and is non-exempt according to the Fair Labor Standards Act. 

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

POSITION TITLE: Food Service Cashier

REPORTS TO:  Café Manager

JOB SUMMARY: The Food and Beverage Cashier is a key frontline team member responsible for delivering outstanding guest service across various food and beverage stations, including cafés, kiosks, and concession areas. This role combines high-quality food and drink preparation with accurate cash handling, strong communication, and a commitment to cleanliness and safety. The cashier ensures food quality and compliance with health regulations, maintains inventory, supports fast-paced operations with adaptability, and uses digital systems efficiently. With a focus on professionalism, inclusivity, and collaboration, this position plays a critical role in creating a welcoming and efficient service environment, while also performing additional duties as needed to support the overall success of the team.

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Delivers exceptional guest experiences by providing prompt, friendly, and informed service across all food and beverage stations, including café, kiosk, and concession areas.
2. Prepares and serves coffee, espresso drinks, smoothies, and food items accurately and efficiently, following standardized recipes, safety procedures, and quality guidelines.
3. Executes cash handling and POS transactions with precision, adhering to established policies to ensure accuracy and accountability.
4. Maintains proper food safety and sanitation standards by holding a valid food handler’s card and complying with health regulations and internal protocols at all times.
5. Monitors food quality and temperature controls throughout the shift, ensuring all items meet required safety and OCAq standards.
6. Performs food prep, portioning, and production support tasks to meet service demands and reduce wait times during peak periods.
7. Keeps the service area and dining spaces clean and organized, including sanitizing surfaces, removing trash, sweeping, and restocking supplies to support a safe, welcoming environment.
8. Communicates clearly and respectfully with guests, coworkers, and supervisors to maintain a collaborative and efficient team environment.
9. Demonstrates adaptability and resilience, managing fluctuating guest volumes and shifting priorities while maintaining service standards.
10. Provides inclusive and culturally respectful service, ensuring all guests feel welcomed, valued, and accommodated.
11. Maintains proper stock levels and inventory rotation, alerting supervisors to shortages and contributing to effective waste reduction and replenishment.
12. Uses digital systems and equipment effectively, including POS systems, order displays, and communication tools, with a willingness to learn new technologies as needed.
13. Adheres to company dress code and grooming standards, presenting a professional and approachable appearance in line with OCAq expectations.
14. Follows all workplace safety procedures, including proper equipment handling, spill prevention, and emergency protocols to ensure a safe environment for guests and staff.
15. Performs other duties as assigned or as logically required, which may arise as a natural extension of the role to support team and operational success.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (Minimum levels)

• Current food handler’s card is required.
• Prior food handling and cash handling is preferred but not required.
• Must be able to handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be able to stand, bend, kneel, and lift

Please email a Resume and Cover Letter to: jobs@aquarium.org

This full-time, permanent position is exempt according to the Fair Labor Standards Act. This position includes full benefits coverage.

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

POSITION TITLE: Senior Keeper – Aquarist

REPORTS TO: Curator of Fish and Invertebrates

JOB SUMMARY: Under the general direction of the Curator, the Senior Keeper is responsible for daily activities relating to the maintenance of the animal collection. The Senior Keeper also serves as a resource, mentor, and professional role model for other aquarists and staff. As a senior member of the Animal Care team, the incumbent is expected to demonstrate professional maturity, sound judgment, accountability, physical readiness, and the ability to develop others.

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Provides for and supervises the husbandry of all fish and invertebrates in the collection according to the best available methods in animal care, nutrition, and medical treatment. Demonstrates sound judgment in husbandry decisions and assists other aquarists in developing these skills.
2. Provides guidelines and criteria to assure appropriate animal nutrition, including recognition of nutritional problems and specific husbandry needs of fish and invertebrates. Maintains superior feeding standards, continually researches updated nutritional methods and food items, and shares relevant knowledge with staff.
3. Observes, identifies, corrects, and reports animal or system problems to co-workers and appropriate management levels before being noted by management or other Aquarium staff. Demonstrates initiative and sound judgment in determining when independent action or additional assistance is appropriate.
4. Reports unusual conditions or illnesses in animals and assists in their treatment. Works with the veterinarian and Curator on the care of animals that are ill or require treatment. Calculates medicine dosages from information supplied by the veterinarian or Curator. Provides effective acute emergency care without direct supervision and manages long-term critical care with limited supervision. Maintains composure and sound decision-making during animal emergencies.
5. Monitors exhibit water quality and performs water quality analysis as necessary and appropriate. Provides expertise to aquarists in troubleshooting water system and water quality problems and helps staff develop their own problem-solving abilities.
6. Maintains normal operation of all exhibit systems, including filtration packages, supply, and return lines.
7. Troubleshoots system problems and normally returns systems to proper operation without direct supervision. When appropriate, mentors other aquarists in troubleshooting and corrective action.
8. Provides resource information on methods and materials needed for effective exhibit design and maintenance and assists developing aquarists in improving their technical abilities.
9. Works with other Aquarium functions as needed and appropriate, including volunteer training, promotional events, and newsletter articles. Positively and accurately represents the Aquarium in presentations and tours given to media, staff, and visitors.
10. Conducts SCUBA activities in a safe, professional manner and maintains the physical fitness and diving proficiency necessary to safely perform assigned duties. Must conduct at least twelve (12) open-water dives each year, above and beyond dives in Aquarium tanks.
11. Performs SCUBA diving as needed for specimen acquisition and exhibit maintenance and maintains the physical conditioning necessary to safely work with dive equipment in Aquarium exhibits and open-water environments.
12. Ensures that exhibit areas are maintained according to standards set by the Curator. Demonstrates initiative in identifying work that needs to be completed and assists other staff in meeting established standards.
13. Maintains records system of animal accession and disposition.
14. Participates in specimen collection, using safe boating procedures, as needed. Provides resource information on methods and materials for specimen collection and transport. Demonstrates the physical capability, judgment, and teamwork necessary for boating, field collection, and animal transport. At least one transport must be conducted in the last three-year period without preventable mortality. (This transport requirement is not applicable if there is no need for collection or transport.)
15. Demonstrates continued interest in advancements in the aquarist field and actively shares knowledge and experience with other staff. Serves as a mentor to less-experienced aquarists and assists in developing their husbandry, technical, problem-solving, and professional skills.
16. Demonstrates the professional maturity expected of a senior-level employee, including dependability, accountability, composure, respectful communication, receptiveness to feedback, and the ability to provide constructive feedback to others. Leads by example and contributes to a professional and collaborative workplace.
17. Maintains the physical fitness and functional capability necessary to safely perform the essential duties of the position. Work routinely includes prolonged standing and walking; lifting and carrying equipment, food, and supplies; moving hoses and dive equipment; climbing stairs and ladders; bending, kneeling, pushing, pulling, and working in wet, cold, outdoor, and physically demanding conditions.
18. The above accountabilities represent work performed by this position and are not all inclusive. The omission of a specific accountability will not preclude it from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical extension of the position.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position has supervisory responsibilities that are to be delegated, defined, and altered by the Curator to best suit the needs of the department. The incumbent is expected to act as a professional role model, advise and mentor other staff members, and serve as a subject matter resource.

The Senior Keeper is expected to demonstrate the maturity and judgment necessary to provide leadership regardless of whether formal supervisory responsibility has been assigned. The incumbent mentors less-experienced staff, shares knowledge, provides constructive feedback, and helps other aquarists develop their skills, confidence, and independence.

A Senior Keeper should not simply solve problems independently but should help other staff learn how to recognize, evaluate, and solve problems themselves.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (Minimum levels)

• A degree in biology, zoology, fisheries, marine science, or a related field is preferred. A combination of relevant education, training, and professional experience may be considered in lieu of a degree. Candidates must have a minimum of three years of professional aquarist experience working with captive aquatic animals, with demonstrated knowledge of fish and invertebrate physiology, husbandry, and management practices.
• Candidates must demonstrate the professional judgment, leadership, and interpersonal skills appropriate to a senior-level animal care position, including the ability to work independently with limited supervision, contribute effectively within a team, communicate clearly and professionally, and exercise sound judgment in animal care and operational situations.
• The ability and willingness to mentor and develop other staff is required. This includes sharing technical knowledge, teaching appropriate practices, providing constructive feedback and guidance, and supporting the professional development of less-experienced aquarists.
• The ability to obtain and maintain required AAUS scientific SCUBA diving certification is required; cold-water diving experience is preferred. Candidates must possess working knowledge of biological, chemical, and mechanical filtration systems and water quality management. Proficiency with computers and commonly used workplace software is also required.
• Candidates must be able to perform the essential physical functions of the position. These include SCUBA diving, animal care, exhibit maintenance, fieldwork, boating, animal transport, lifting and carrying equipment, climbing, bending, kneeling, and working for extended periods in physically demanding and variable environmental conditions.
• The Senior Keeper is expected to maintain appropriate professional standards, remain composed during challenging situations, accept responsibility for decisions and actions, receive and provide constructive feedback, and maintain productive working relationships.
• Continued professional development is an expectation of the position, including ongoing growth in technical animal care skills, leadership, mentorship, and contributions to the Animal Care team.