Aquarist

The Oceanarium is seeking an enthusiastic and pro-active Aquarist to join the team.

Firmly established as one of the area’s most popular visitor attractions, the Oceanarium is home to a diverse range of creatures - from sharks, jellyfish and otters, to turtles, crocodiles and penguins!

Working in the displays team, the role has responsibilities in the development and maintenance of all exhibits, providing the highest standards of animal welfare and husbandry at all times. This includes ensuring all zoo licence regulations and BIAZA guidelines are adhered to and that related administration duties are fulfilled.

The role includes the maintenance of the quarantine areas, as well as maintaining the plantroom and LSS for all exhibits.

The role also includes involvement in the implementation of the attraction’s educational offering - ensuring that all visitors receive an inspiring, informative and fun experience through regular talks, feeds and interactive opportunities.

The ideal candidate will have relevant husbandry experience and sound understanding of aquarium water chemistry along with several years of working with a wide variety of aquatic creatures and life support systems.

Relevant qualifications are an advantage along with an organised, structured approach and can-do outlook.

Salary of £27000, along with a company pension scheme.

The position includes on-call responsibilities on a rota basis as well as weekend and bank holiday working.

More information and job description available upon request

To apply please send a CV and covering letter, outlining relevant experience, to:

Oliver Buttling Group Curator (Aquatics) oliver.buttling@reallive.co.uk

Oceanarium Bournemouth Pier Approach, West Beach,Bournemouth, Dorset BH2 5AA. 01202 311993 (ext 26/32)

Deadline for applications: 18th October 2026