Take the next step in your career by joining the Texas State Aquarium—the premier showcase of Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea ecosystems. We deliver high-quality guest experiences grounded in education, conservation, and animal care excellence.

Position Summary

The Animal Care Assistant is a full-time position that supports daily care, training, enrichment, and husbandry for the marine mammal collection, ensuring exceptional animal wellness, program delivery, and guest experience. The marine mammal collection includes common bottlenose dolphins, North American river otter and ocelot.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Participate in the primary care and behavioral training of the marine mammal collection.
Prepare diets and feed animals according to established nutritional protocols.
Observe and document animal behavior, reporting abnormalities to supervisors.
Maintain cleanliness and safety of exhibits through daily cleaning procedures.
Assist with the creation and implementation of behavioral enrichment.
Maintain accurate feeding, training, husbandry, and medical records, including data entry into TRACKS.
Clean, organize, and maintain animal care areas, food preparation equipment, and enrichment items.
Monitor life support systems, including water quality and temperature, and report concerns.
Assist with exhibit maintenance tasks, including SCUBA-assisted cleaning and aquatic habitat care.
Adhere to all federal, state, local, and AZA policies regarding animal care, documentation, and animal wellness.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in biology, psychology, marine science, or related field (or equivalent education/experience).
Valid Texas Driver’s License with insurable driving record.
Open Water SCUBA certification required.
First Aid, CPR/AED, and Emergency Oxygen Provider certifications required (may be obtained after hire).
Successful completion of a swim test required.

Other Information

This is a full-time position and includes comprehensive medical, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, paid vacation, and a 403(b) retirement plan with a 100% match on the first 5% contributed.

Texas State Aquarium

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Animal Care Assistant