Aquarist

Aquarists are responsible for the care of marine animals that live in aquariums and the maintenance of their tanks. This includes feeding schedules and ensuring the overall health and well-being of the creatures within their care.

Aquarist Job Description

Prepare food and feed the marine life.

Monitor animals' behaviours and maintain and keep records up to date.

Keep track of water quality and temperature.

Clean tanks and repair equipment.

Share information about aquatic animals to visitors through educational workshops.

Design exhibits that promote awareness, and interest as well as entertain.

Coordinate with Veterinarians to provide medical care and treatment for sick or injured marine life.

Assist in the acquisition of new species and the setup of their habitats.

Note

In Singapore, Aquarists play a crucial role in Marine Conservation, responsible for the care and maintenance of aquatic life in various settings. This role requires a passion for Marine Biology, strong swimming skills, and a commitment to environmental stewardship.

A day in the life

Aquarist

Ever wondered who takes care of the schools of fishes at an aquarium? An Aquarist at SEA Aquarium shares more about what a day in his life is like!

What you should know about Aquarist jobs in Singapore

Nature of Work

You will need to Scuba Dive as part of your job when taking care of and feeding marine creatures. Thus, a Scuba Diving certification is essential.

Key Advice

As Aquarists, most of your time will be spent cleaning. You will not only need to clean the tank walls and filters but also the gravel.

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements
Minimally a diploma in Life Sciences or similar course work in Marine Biology.

Candidates must have at least two years of hands-on experience working with marine life in a professional setting.

Possess a valid certification in Aquatic Animal Health Management.

Scuba Diving certification from an accredited organisation for underwater maintenance and animal care tasks.

Familiarity with the regulations and guidelines set by the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) for the care and management of marine species.

Experience with water quality testing and Marine Ecosystem Management.

Proficiency in using aquarium management software and systems for monitoring aquatic environments.
Possible Pathway

Possible Pathway

Skills you need to pursue an Aquarist career in Singapore

Hard Skills

Animal Care

Ensure the well-being and health of animals through proper maintenance and care.

Marine Biology

Deep understanding of marine organisms and their ecosystems to support conservation and care.

Scuba Diving

Adept at underwater diving with a Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus for research and maintenance tasks.

Soft Skills

Problem-Solving

Identifying issues and implementing effective solutions in various situations.

Creative Thinking

Generating innovative ideas and approaches to enhance animal care and exhibit designs.

Attention to Detail

Meticulous in observing and handling tasks to ensure accuracy and safety in all aspects of work.

“We still keep top priority on all of the animals' well being, exhibit cleaning and maintenance.”

Kenneth, Aquarist

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What job opportunities are there for Aquarists?

There are very limited jobs for Aquarists in Singapore, making it rather competitive. The bigger name companies in Singapore would be the River Safari and the Southeast Asia Aquarium or the S.E.A. Aquarium.
Is the role dangerous?

Aquarists face many risks when diving into tanks with venomous marine life to feed or clean them. However, many safety precautions are put in place to ensure that everyone is safe. At the Southeast Asia Aquarium or the S.E.A. Aquarium, Aquarists feed jellyfish using a pipette to prevent themselves from getting hurt while ensuring that all of them are fed.
Are skills in diving required to be Aquarists?

While knowing how to dive isn't always a strict requirement for all Aquarist jobs in Singapore, it can be very beneficial and even necessary for certain roles depending on the aquariums and marine life they are going to work on.
Do Aquarists work with all the aquarium animals, regardless of species?

Aquarists typically don't work with all the aquarium animals. While they have a broad knowledge of aquatic life and the specific needs of different species, there are just too many out there.
How often should Aquarists change the water in an aquarium?

It is recommended that the water in an aquarium should be changed weekly to ensure that it is always in good condition.