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Part-time Aquarist I (2400-1)

Los Angeles Zoo //

Los Angeles, CA //

Apply by: September 8, 2026

Application Information: Interested candidates should email an updated resume or a completed City application to lazoo.personnel@lacity.org and the subject line must include “PT AQUARIST.” Resumes and/or applications must be received by 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, or until sufficient applications have been received. The Los Angeles Zoo strives to have a workforce that is representative of the diverse communities of Los Angeles and we encourage people of all backgrounds, including applicants who identify as Black, Indigenous, people of color, people with varying abilities, women and of the LGBTQAI+ communities, to apply.

A part-time Aquarist is part of the LA Zoo’s Life Support Systems (LSS) Team.

Functions & Responsibilities

Essential Functions

• assisting with the operation of LSS throughout the zoo;
• equipment maintenance and repair;
• basic water quality testing;
• understand water chemistry reports and their relationship to life support;
• work closely with Animal Care staff and Construction staff;
• perform inspections;
• preventative maintenance tasks;
• cleaning and repair of all Life Support equipment; and
• other duties as assigned.

Skills & Experience

Knowledge & Skills

• Knowledge of pumps (centrifugal and peristaltic), filters (sand, bead, drum), UV sterilizers, ozone generators, and automated control systems; water quality in aquariums; PVC plumbing; and knowledge and ability to use power tools

Education & Experience

• Must have a background in caring for exotic reptiles/amphibians/fish and invertebrates, and a willingness to work in cramped hot spaces with a team;
• Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences is preferred;

Job Requirements

Physical Requirements

• Ability to move/lift 75 pounds;
• Ability to climb ladders and work in tight areas;
• Ability to ride a bicycle preferred;
• Ability to work indoor and outdoor in inclement weather

Working Conditions

Mostly outdoors in all the weather Southern California has to offer

Salary & Benefits

Salary: $ 34.69 Hourly (The current salary range is subject to change. You may confirm the starting salary with the hiring department before accepting a job offer.)

Hours not to exceed 800 hours in a service year per employee
Sunday and Monday, and every other Saturday; Start time 7:00 a.m.
Holidays and other shifts, as needed

This is an at-will exempt intermittent position which can be terminated at any time without cause.