An Aquarist Keeps the Fish from Floating
“Aquarist” is not a term you hear every day, but it refers to a person who takes care of marine life in captivity. An aquarium technician salary makes it a career worth considering. Not to be confused with “marine biologist,” an aquarist keeps fish habitats clean and healthy and all equipment running smoothly. For anyone who loves the beauty and diversity of marine life, becoming an aquarist is a great career choice.
An aquarist requires a broad range of skills and knowledge:
- Aquarium set-up
- Pond maintenance
- Freshwater aquariums
- Saltwater aquariums
- Species compatibility
- Health requirements
- Breeding/reproduction
- Maintaining and troubleshooting aquarium equipment
Aquarium Technician Salary Information
Keeping in mind that salaries can vary depending on what part of the country you live in and who your employer is, the average annual salary for aquarium technicians in the U.S. is over $32,000.
Aquarist Training
The Animal Behavior College Aquarium Maintenance Program prepares students to work as professional aquarists. Getting certified through our 10-stage online program demonstrates to future employers and clients that you have extensive aquarium maintenance, aquarium cleaning and fishkeeping knowledge. Completion of the program takes about 8 months.
Opportunities for Professional Aquarists
Aquarists find work in surprising places. Any facility that keeps fish or other marine life requires someone to set up aquariums, maintain optimal water quality, clean tanks regularly, and fix problem equipment. From the family setting up their first aquarium to the proprietors of Sea World, all employ aquarists.
Our graduates work in pet stores, private homes and offices, local aquariums, theme parks, zoos, and fish hatcheries. Many open their own businesses (the “Business Building” stage of the ABC Aquarium Maintenance program helps with that).
Enroll in the Aquarium Maintenance Program
Call 800-795-3294 to learn more about the program. An admissions counselor will be happy to help you get started.