City of Lewisville
United States of America (Non-Exempt)
POSITION SUMMARY
Under the direction of the Aquatic Supervisor, assists with supervising operations related to maintenance, aquatic programs, special events and aquatic personnel of Thrive. In addition, prevents aquatic injuries by educating guests of safety rules and regulations; maintaining facility cleanliness; reporting all questionable safety situations to pool management; and assists guests as needed.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.
· Oversee daily operations of assigned facility.
· Conduct regular in-service training, evaluate and give instructions to lifeguards to improve techniques and perform skill audits.
· Maintain aquatic team training record
· Serve as the aquatic lead when the Aquatic Supervisor and Aquatic Specialist are off duty.
· Drafts and coordinate aquatic team coverage and ensure coverage
· Assist in maintaining the aquatic areas, including daily testing and documenting of pool chemicals and maintenance while on duty. Including the preparation of various reports and logs.
· Determine and enforce safety measures, rules and regulations in and around the pool to ensure the personal safety of facility guests.
· Perform water rescues utilizing first aid, CPR/AED and lifesaving techniques.
· Respond to and coordinate with EMS personnel before, during and after emergency situations.
· Perform related duties, as assigned.
POSITION QUALIFICATIONS
Education: High School Diploma or GED required.
Experience: One (1) year of lifeguarding experience required. Experience as head lifeguard or seasonal pool manager preferred. Valid American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor Certificate, current American Red Cross Waterpark Certificate, and/or current Certified Pool Operator Certificate preferred.
Any combination of related, education, experience, certifications, and licenses that will result in a candidate successfully performing the essential functions of the job is an acceptable substitute for the above specified education and experience requirements.
Licenses and Certifications: Upon hire, must be able to receive and maintain the following certifications: American Red Cross Lifeguard Certificate, CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer Certificate, First Aid Certificate, and American Red Cross Waterpark Certificate.
Conditions of Employment: Must submit to and pass a criminal background and pre-employment drug test. Must possess a valid State of Texas Driver’s License Class “C” and good driving record as defined by City policy.
Other Requirements: Must be at least 18 years of age. Successful completion of a pre-employment in-water practical skills test, which includes: (Swim-Tread-Swim Sequence) 150-yard swim (demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing); Tread water for 2 minutes, using only the legs; 50-yard swim (demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing); Complete a timed brick event within 1 minute, 40 seconds. Ability to lift and move 50 lb. sacks of chemicals and apply, as required. All persons hired are required to provide their own uniform which will be a specific swimsuit purchased by employees and black shorts. Attend work as assigned working a flexible schedule, working days, nights, weekends and holidays as required.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Knowledge of: In-water practical skills, which includes: (Swim-Tread-Swim Sequence) 150-yard swim (demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing), treading water for 2 minutes, using only the legs; the 50-yard swim (demonstrating breath control; and rhythmic breathing.
Skilled in: Creating training plans that meet or exceed expectations provided by the Texas Department of Health and the Aquatics Supervisor; following instructions, safety practices and standard operating procedures in performing assigned tasks; communicating clearly and concisely with team members and facility guests; frequent walking; demonstrating and assisting with exercise movements; bending, stretching, lifting, pushing, pulling and squatting - movements performed daily; being in water for long periods during the day; accepting responsibility and accounting for their actions; problem solving while maintaining the safety of the guests and facility; climbing 8-foot ladders on a continued basis; punctuality and attending work regularly; and working effectively with people regardless of their race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetics, or job type.
Physical Demands and Working Conditions: Must be able to perform heavy manual labor and work in adverse conditions, as required. The position requires prolonged periods of standing, walking, and sitting in a lifeguard chair while actively monitoring pool areas. Must be able to transport 50-lb. sacks of chemicals and apply chemicals as required. The position also requires frequent swimming, climbing, bending, reaching, lifting, and other physical activities necessary to perform rescues and respond to emergencies.
The position may occasionally require lifting or carrying supplies or equipment. Employees must regularly lift or carry up to 50 pounds, and occasionally push, or pull up to 100 pounds with or without assistance. Typical daily lifting requirements for certain tasks range from 25 to 50 pounds.
Employees work primarily in and around swimming pools, aquatic facilities, and pool decks, both indoors and outdoors, with frequent interaction with the public that will involve assisting individuals. May be exposed to heat, humidity, direct sunlight, rain, wind, chlorine, pool chemicals, and wet or slippery surfaces. May work in noisy and crowded environments while maintaining continuous attention to swimmers and staff.
The City of Lewisville has reviewed this job description to ensure that essential functions and basic duties have been included. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills, and abilities, which may be required. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate. The position also requires meeting the essential requirements of the Physical Demands and Working Conditions, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Levels of positions within a class series are distinguished by the level of responsibility assumed, the complexity of duties assigned, the independence of action taken, the nature of the public contact made, and the impact and span of tasks performed.
This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. The City of Lewisville has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice.
More Than a Job — Build Your Career with Lewisville
Join the City of Lewisville and enjoy a competitive total rewards package designed to support you at work, at home, and throughout your career.
Explore Employee Benefits!
Work Hours: Our facility is open to the public seven days a week, with operating hours ranging from early mornings to evenings.
While our general hours are: Monday–Thursday: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Team members typically work standard 8-hour shifts, which may vary depending on the needs of the facility. Flexibility is key, and schedules are created with fairness and advance notice in mind.
Salary Range: $41,333 - $51,122
Here’s how our salary ranges work:
Starting Salary: $41,333 This is the starting annual salary for new employees hired into this position.
Full Salary Range: $41,333 - $51,122 This is the full annual salary range for the position. As you gain experience, develop your skills, and demonstrate successful performance in the role, you may have opportunities for salary growth within the full range.
United States of America (Non-Exempt)
POSITION SUMMARY
Under the direction of the Aquatic Supervisor, assists with supervising operations related to maintenance, aquatic programs, special events and aquatic personnel of Thrive. In addition, prevents aquatic injuries by educating guests of safety rules and regulations; maintaining facility cleanliness; reporting all questionable safety situations to pool management; and assists guests as needed.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.
· Oversee daily operations of assigned facility.
· Conduct regular in-service training, evaluate and give instructions to lifeguards to improve techniques and perform skill audits.
· Maintain aquatic team training record
· Serve as the aquatic lead when the Aquatic Supervisor and Aquatic Specialist are off duty.
· Drafts and coordinate aquatic team coverage and ensure coverage
· Assist in maintaining the aquatic areas, including daily testing and documenting of pool chemicals and maintenance while on duty. Including the preparation of various reports and logs.
· Determine and enforce safety measures, rules and regulations in and around the pool to ensure the personal safety of facility guests.
· Perform water rescues utilizing first aid, CPR/AED and lifesaving techniques.
· Respond to and coordinate with EMS personnel before, during and after emergency situations.
· Perform related duties, as assigned.
POSITION QUALIFICATIONS
Education: High School Diploma or GED required.
Experience: One (1) year of lifeguarding experience required. Experience as head lifeguard or seasonal pool manager preferred. Valid American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor Certificate, current American Red Cross Waterpark Certificate, and/or current Certified Pool Operator Certificate preferred.
Any combination of related, education, experience, certifications, and licenses that will result in a candidate successfully performing the essential functions of the job is an acceptable substitute for the above specified education and experience requirements.
Licenses and Certifications: Upon hire, must be able to receive and maintain the following certifications: American Red Cross Lifeguard Certificate, CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer Certificate, First Aid Certificate, and American Red Cross Waterpark Certificate.
Conditions of Employment: Must submit to and pass a criminal background and pre-employment drug test. Must possess a valid State of Texas Driver’s License Class “C” and good driving record as defined by City policy.
Other Requirements: Must be at least 18 years of age. Successful completion of a pre-employment in-water practical skills test, which includes: (Swim-Tread-Swim Sequence) 150-yard swim (demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing); Tread water for 2 minutes, using only the legs; 50-yard swim (demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing); Complete a timed brick event within 1 minute, 40 seconds. Ability to lift and move 50 lb. sacks of chemicals and apply, as required. All persons hired are required to provide their own uniform which will be a specific swimsuit purchased by employees and black shorts. Attend work as assigned working a flexible schedule, working days, nights, weekends and holidays as required.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Knowledge of: In-water practical skills, which includes: (Swim-Tread-Swim Sequence) 150-yard swim (demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing), treading water for 2 minutes, using only the legs; the 50-yard swim (demonstrating breath control; and rhythmic breathing.
Skilled in: Creating training plans that meet or exceed expectations provided by the Texas Department of Health and the Aquatics Supervisor; following instructions, safety practices and standard operating procedures in performing assigned tasks; communicating clearly and concisely with team members and facility guests; frequent walking; demonstrating and assisting with exercise movements; bending, stretching, lifting, pushing, pulling and squatting - movements performed daily; being in water for long periods during the day; accepting responsibility and accounting for their actions; problem solving while maintaining the safety of the guests and facility; climbing 8-foot ladders on a continued basis; punctuality and attending work regularly; and working effectively with people regardless of their race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetics, or job type.
Physical Demands and Working Conditions: Must be able to perform heavy manual labor and work in adverse conditions, as required. The position requires prolonged periods of standing, walking, and sitting in a lifeguard chair while actively monitoring pool areas. Must be able to transport 50-lb. sacks of chemicals and apply chemicals as required. The position also requires frequent swimming, climbing, bending, reaching, lifting, and other physical activities necessary to perform rescues and respond to emergencies.
The position may occasionally require lifting or carrying supplies or equipment. Employees must regularly lift or carry up to 50 pounds, and occasionally push, or pull up to 100 pounds with or without assistance. Typical daily lifting requirements for certain tasks range from 25 to 50 pounds.
Employees work primarily in and around swimming pools, aquatic facilities, and pool decks, both indoors and outdoors, with frequent interaction with the public that will involve assisting individuals. May be exposed to heat, humidity, direct sunlight, rain, wind, chlorine, pool chemicals, and wet or slippery surfaces. May work in noisy and crowded environments while maintaining continuous attention to swimmers and staff.
The City of Lewisville has reviewed this job description to ensure that essential functions and basic duties have been included. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills, and abilities, which may be required. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate. The position also requires meeting the essential requirements of the Physical Demands and Working Conditions, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Levels of positions within a class series are distinguished by the level of responsibility assumed, the complexity of duties assigned, the independence of action taken, the nature of the public contact made, and the impact and span of tasks performed.
This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. The City of Lewisville has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice.
More Than a Job — Build Your Career with Lewisville
Join the City of Lewisville and enjoy a competitive total rewards package designed to support you at work, at home, and throughout your career.
Explore Employee Benefits!
Work Hours: Our facility is open to the public seven days a week, with operating hours ranging from early mornings to evenings.
While our general hours are: Monday–Thursday: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Team members typically work standard 8-hour shifts, which may vary depending on the needs of the facility. Flexibility is key, and schedules are created with fairness and advance notice in mind.
Salary Range: $41,333 - $51,122
Here’s how our salary ranges work:
Starting Salary: $41,333 This is the starting annual salary for new employees hired into this position.
Full Salary Range: $41,333 - $51,122 This is the full annual salary range for the position. As you gain experience, develop your skills, and demonstrate successful performance in the role, you may have opportunities for salary growth within the full range.
Washington State Department of Ecology
Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen
The Department of Ecology is hiring a Padilla Bay Aquarist (Program Specialist 2) within the Shorelands & Environmental Assistance Program .
Location:
This position will be located in our Padilla Bay Office in Mount Vernon, WA.
Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.
Schedule:
This position is NOT eligible for telework.
Application Timeline:
Apply by October 9th, 2026.
Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed.
Duties
This Padilla Bay Aquarist position offers a unique opportunity to manage and enhance the aquarium and touch pool systems that support public education, scientific understanding, and stewardship of the Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. In this role, you will oversee daily aquarium operations, ensure the health and well-being of marine organisms, and maintain reliable and high-performing life support systems that meet state, federal, and NOAA expectations. You will serve as the Reserve’s primary technical expert for aquarium care and system maintenance, providing sound professional judgement, responsive problem solving, and long-term planning guidance that strengthens facility reliability and visitor experience.
You will also play a central role in Padilla Bay’s public education program by developing touch-pool and aquarium-based learning materials, supporting curriculum development, delivering engaging demonstrations for visitors, and collaborating with instructors across the Reserve’s sectors. In addition, you will coordinate and train volunteers, interns, WCC members, and Reserve staff who assist with aquarium care, ensuring consistent operations, clear communication, and a safe environment for both organisms and visitors. Through this work, you contribute directly to Ecology’s mission and the Reserve’s commitment to research, education, and estuarine conservation.
What you will do: • Manage daily operation, maintenance, and performance of aquarium and touch-pool life support systems, ensuring stable environmental conditions and healthy living environments for resident organisms. • Independently conduct routine and preventative maintenance, troubleshoot equipment issues, perform repairs, and coordinate facility needs with the Reserve’s facility coordinator. • Monitor water quality and organism health using technical equipment and data-tracking systems, analyze trends, diagnose system issues, and implement corrective actions to improve performance and animal welfare. • Provide technical judgement and recommendations for long-term aquarium facility planning, exhibit improvements, system upgrades, and operational efficiencies. • Respond to critical aquarium needs during power outages, closures, or emergencies, ensuring the safety and care of organisms during after-hours and holiday periods. • Develop and deliver aquarium-based educational presentations, demonstrations, and public engagement events, including fish feedings, touch-pool interpretation, and hands-on estuary science programs. • Collaborate with Education, Research, Stewardship, CTP, and Facilities sectors to design exhibit improvements, align messaging, and develop curriculum materials that utilize aquarium systems. • Coordinate, train, and oversee volunteers, interns, WCC members, and Reserve staff who support aquarium and touch-pool care; maintain schedules, delegate tasks, and organize aquarium team meetings. • Identify and support service-learning and internship opportunities related to aquarium operations, environmental interpretation, and estuarine science. • Maintain required permits and ensure full compliance with policies and regulations associated with capture, holding, and release of organisms. • Follow agency policies for records and information management, maintaining accurate electronic and paper records that align with retention and public records requirements. • Perform additional duties as assigned to support Padilla Bay operations, public programs, facilities, and visitor services.
Qualifications
For detailed information on how we calculate experience, please visit our Recruitment website .
Required Qualifications:
Four (4) years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which includes the following:
Aquarium Life Support Operations: Ability to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot closed and open-system aquarium life support equipment, including pumps, filtration systems, monitoring devices, and water quality instrumentation.
Animal Husbandry: Experience observing, assessing, and supporting the health of marine organisms through appropriate feeding, preventative care, habitat management, and species compatibility evaluation.
Water Quality Data & Analysis: Ability to collect, track, and analyze water quality and organism-health data to identify trends, diagnose system performance issues, and implement corrective measures that ensure stable aquarium conditions.
Emergency Response & Problem Solving: Ability to assess and respond to aquarium system failures, environmental fluctuations, power outages, and other urgent conditions that require timely action and sound technical judgment.
Volunteer and Staff Coordination: Experience organizing task schedules, training volunteers or staff, and delegating daily operational activities to ensure consistent, safe care of aquarium systems and organisms.
Environmental Education Support: Ability to convey biological, ecological, or aquarium-system concepts clearly to public visitors, students, and community groups through demonstrations, presentations, or interactive learning experiences.
Education: Involving a major study in environmental science, life science, environmental education, aquarium science, or related field
Examples of how to qualify:
4 years of experience.
3 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits.
2 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree).
1 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits.
Bachelor’s degree or above.
Special Requirements & Conditions of Employment:
This position requires technical competency with aquarium life support systems and water quality monitoring. Candidates must hold at least one of the following certifications—or an equivalent credential—and be able to obtain the second within one year of hire :
• Level 1 AALSO Life Support Operator Certification (or equivalent) • Level 1 AALSO Water Quality Technician Certification (or equivalent)
Equivalent certifications or training may include documented aquarium life-support coursework, professional training, or industry-recognized credentials demonstrating comparable knowledge and skill.
Desired Qualifications:
Have level 2 AALSO Life Support Operator or Water Quality Technician Certification or equivalent.
Additional experience leading environmental education programs and/or working independently in caring for and managing aquariums are preferred.
Supplemental Information
Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov .
Our Commitment to DEIR
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR) are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations. We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.
Application Process
Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
How to Apply
Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach:
Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position
Resume
Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.
For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website .
Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.
Need an Accommodation?
If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format:
Please contact us at 360-407-6186 or careers@ecy.wa.gov
If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384.
Questions?
For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Jude Apple at Jude.Apple@ecy.wa.gov
If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov
About the Shorelands and Environmental Assistance (SEA) Program
The mission of the SEA Program is to create community conservation partnerships to protect and restore our shorelands, wetlands, and floodplains.
About the Department of Ecology
As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability.
Ecology employees may be eligible for the following : Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver , Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) , Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentives (Download PDF reader) , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information
To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog .
Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.
Note: This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.
Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen
The Department of Ecology is hiring a Padilla Bay Aquarist (Program Specialist 2) within the Shorelands & Environmental Assistance Program .
Location:
This position will be located in our Padilla Bay Office in Mount Vernon, WA.
Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.
Schedule:
This position is NOT eligible for telework.
Application Timeline:
Apply by October 9th, 2026.
Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed.
Duties
This Padilla Bay Aquarist position offers a unique opportunity to manage and enhance the aquarium and touch pool systems that support public education, scientific understanding, and stewardship of the Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. In this role, you will oversee daily aquarium operations, ensure the health and well-being of marine organisms, and maintain reliable and high-performing life support systems that meet state, federal, and NOAA expectations. You will serve as the Reserve’s primary technical expert for aquarium care and system maintenance, providing sound professional judgement, responsive problem solving, and long-term planning guidance that strengthens facility reliability and visitor experience.
You will also play a central role in Padilla Bay’s public education program by developing touch-pool and aquarium-based learning materials, supporting curriculum development, delivering engaging demonstrations for visitors, and collaborating with instructors across the Reserve’s sectors. In addition, you will coordinate and train volunteers, interns, WCC members, and Reserve staff who assist with aquarium care, ensuring consistent operations, clear communication, and a safe environment for both organisms and visitors. Through this work, you contribute directly to Ecology’s mission and the Reserve’s commitment to research, education, and estuarine conservation.
What you will do: • Manage daily operation, maintenance, and performance of aquarium and touch-pool life support systems, ensuring stable environmental conditions and healthy living environments for resident organisms. • Independently conduct routine and preventative maintenance, troubleshoot equipment issues, perform repairs, and coordinate facility needs with the Reserve’s facility coordinator. • Monitor water quality and organism health using technical equipment and data-tracking systems, analyze trends, diagnose system issues, and implement corrective actions to improve performance and animal welfare. • Provide technical judgement and recommendations for long-term aquarium facility planning, exhibit improvements, system upgrades, and operational efficiencies. • Respond to critical aquarium needs during power outages, closures, or emergencies, ensuring the safety and care of organisms during after-hours and holiday periods. • Develop and deliver aquarium-based educational presentations, demonstrations, and public engagement events, including fish feedings, touch-pool interpretation, and hands-on estuary science programs. • Collaborate with Education, Research, Stewardship, CTP, and Facilities sectors to design exhibit improvements, align messaging, and develop curriculum materials that utilize aquarium systems. • Coordinate, train, and oversee volunteers, interns, WCC members, and Reserve staff who support aquarium and touch-pool care; maintain schedules, delegate tasks, and organize aquarium team meetings. • Identify and support service-learning and internship opportunities related to aquarium operations, environmental interpretation, and estuarine science. • Maintain required permits and ensure full compliance with policies and regulations associated with capture, holding, and release of organisms. • Follow agency policies for records and information management, maintaining accurate electronic and paper records that align with retention and public records requirements. • Perform additional duties as assigned to support Padilla Bay operations, public programs, facilities, and visitor services.
Qualifications
For detailed information on how we calculate experience, please visit our Recruitment website .
Required Qualifications:
Four (4) years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which includes the following:
Aquarium Life Support Operations: Ability to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot closed and open-system aquarium life support equipment, including pumps, filtration systems, monitoring devices, and water quality instrumentation.
Animal Husbandry: Experience observing, assessing, and supporting the health of marine organisms through appropriate feeding, preventative care, habitat management, and species compatibility evaluation.
Water Quality Data & Analysis: Ability to collect, track, and analyze water quality and organism-health data to identify trends, diagnose system performance issues, and implement corrective measures that ensure stable aquarium conditions.
Emergency Response & Problem Solving: Ability to assess and respond to aquarium system failures, environmental fluctuations, power outages, and other urgent conditions that require timely action and sound technical judgment.
Volunteer and Staff Coordination: Experience organizing task schedules, training volunteers or staff, and delegating daily operational activities to ensure consistent, safe care of aquarium systems and organisms.
Environmental Education Support: Ability to convey biological, ecological, or aquarium-system concepts clearly to public visitors, students, and community groups through demonstrations, presentations, or interactive learning experiences.
Education: Involving a major study in environmental science, life science, environmental education, aquarium science, or related field
Examples of how to qualify:
4 years of experience.
3 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits.
2 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree).
1 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits.
Bachelor’s degree or above.
Special Requirements & Conditions of Employment:
This position requires technical competency with aquarium life support systems and water quality monitoring. Candidates must hold at least one of the following certifications—or an equivalent credential—and be able to obtain the second within one year of hire :
• Level 1 AALSO Life Support Operator Certification (or equivalent) • Level 1 AALSO Water Quality Technician Certification (or equivalent)
Equivalent certifications or training may include documented aquarium life-support coursework, professional training, or industry-recognized credentials demonstrating comparable knowledge and skill.
Desired Qualifications:
Have level 2 AALSO Life Support Operator or Water Quality Technician Certification or equivalent.
Additional experience leading environmental education programs and/or working independently in caring for and managing aquariums are preferred.
Supplemental Information
Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov .
Our Commitment to DEIR
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR) are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations. We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.
Application Process
Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
How to Apply
Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach:
Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position
Resume
Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.
For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website .
Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.
Need an Accommodation?
If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format:
Please contact us at 360-407-6186 or careers@ecy.wa.gov
If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384.
Questions?
For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Jude Apple at Jude.Apple@ecy.wa.gov
If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov
About the Shorelands and Environmental Assistance (SEA) Program
The mission of the SEA Program is to create community conservation partnerships to protect and restore our shorelands, wetlands, and floodplains.
About the Department of Ecology
As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability.
Ecology employees may be eligible for the following : Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver , Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) , Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentives (Download PDF reader) , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information
To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog .
Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.
Note: This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.
