This position involves working closely with other Husbandry team members to care for the exhibits, maintain exemplary species welfare standards, manage life support systems and actively participate in The Deep’s daily diving programme. Opportunity to participate in conservation, research, education and creative improvement programmes also exists.
Responsibilities
- Maintenance of a wide range of species and exhibits to an exemplary standard that fulfils zoo licensing and curatorial standards; with particular emphasis on species welfare and enrichment.
- Adherence to company policies with regards to record keeping, water testing, aquatic animal health monitoring and safe working practices.
- Actively contribute to conservation & research programmes undertaken by the Husbandry Department where appropriate.
- Act as a positive ambassador for The Deep when engaging with visitors and external partners at all times.
- Participate as a representative of The Deep in relevant conferences and symposia.
- Ensure that the company’s policy on Health and Safety is adhered to during your work activities.
- Comply with the department rota as set out by senior Husbandry team.
- Aid the Husbandry department to achieve the target of maintaining the fabric of The Deep to a standard acceptable to the Chief Executive.
- Co-operate fully with the entire Crew of The Deep with the aim of making The Deep a truly world-class visitor attraction.
- Aid the senior Husbandry team in developing any new exhibition areas/revised habitat.
- Participate in Crew training and assessment.
- Dive training (to PADI Divemaster level) to be completed to ensure full participation as an active member of the dive team.
Other
- The successful applicant shall also be required to undertake any general duties as determined by their line manager.
- A reasonable amount of physical work will be involved in carrying out your duties.
- You are expected to participate in all training provided by The Deep.
- Due to the nature of the business the successful applicant will be required to work some weekends and evenings.
PERSON SPECIFICATION:
Essential:
Can demonstrate:
- Dive training completed to a minimum of PADI Rescue Diver (or equivalent)
- A good understanding of the underlying principles of aquatic animal care.
- A commitment to The Deep, and its environmental and ethical policies.
- Enthusiasm and commitment to working in animal care.
- Self-motivation with a proactive approach to continuing professional development.
- Excellent team-working and verbal communication skills.
- Excellent attention to detail.
- Reliability (good timekeeping and attendance)
- Physically fit (a HSE medical is required in order to dive and in preparation for further dive training).
- Qualification in biology, marine biology, zoology and/or general science at college or university level, or equivalent relevant experience working within an aquarium setting.
- Good practical ability with closed recirculating aquaculture systems.
- A keen interest in marine matters.
- A willingness to learn and a commitment to self-improvement.
It is noted that the successful candidate will be required to provide all documentation to prove their right to work in the UK. A satisfactory basic DBS check will also be required.
Desirable:
- Demonstrable commitment to animal conservation either through voluntary work placements, projects or fundraising events.
- Good knowledge of the principles of zoology, aquatic biology and a keen interest in environmental matters.
- Creative skills, able to help create world class exhibition content.
- PVC pipework plumbing experience
TERMS & BENEFITS:
The starting salary is £29,118 per annum rising to £31,566 per annum on completion of dive training to PADI Divemaster level. The length of this training and assessment period will depend on the existing experience and competences of the successful candidate. A structured Senior Aquarist training and assessment period to cover all aspects of the job role, with an associated salary enhancement is available after three years in post.
The hours of work are 39 per week, working one in three weekends on a rota basis. Some out of hours and bank holiday work can also be expected due to the nature of the job. Other benefits include 25 days holiday per annum, plus bank holidays.
Pension: The Deep is an admitted body of the East Riding Pension Fund (www.erpf.org.uk) which administers the Local Government Pension Scheme to our region. This is a ‘defined benefits’ scheme.
Plus: Deep Crew enjoy an annual allocation of complimentary tickets, discount in the DeepArtment Store and The Plaice Café, free parking, an Employee Assistance Programme and access to an annual bonus scheme.
TO APPLY:
Applications are invited as CVs with covering letter which should draw our attention to how you believe you match what The Deep is looking for; what sets you apart? Please don’t rely on AI in your application; The Deep would rather your application authentically reflected what you would like to share with us! Other application formats are welcome if this is preferable instead of, or in addition to, written submissions.
These should be submitted via the link below by 9am on 31st July 2026.
Interviews are likely to take place week commencing 17th August 2026.
Please mention Jobs With Animals when applying for this role.