Are you interested in contributing to the vital field of animal welfare and scientific research? The Biological Services Aquarium (BSA) is currently seeking a dependable Aquarium Assistant to support our operations during the intensive summer period of August and September! This role is fundamental to the daily success of our Sheffield-based facility, ensuring that our zebrafish colony remains healthy and that all aquatic systems function at the highest biological standards.
How will you contribute to the operational excellence of the BSA? The core of this role involves the systematic maintenance of over 3,000 tanks to ensure our facility consistently meets all legal and biological welfare standards! This includes utilizing a variety of specialised methods for the manual cleaning of both standard and small-cross tanks, alongside the rigorous upkeep of fish racks, equipment, and communal spaces. To support these operations, the successful candidate will also manage the collection of consumables from stores and maintain aquarium stock solutions by preparing fresh mixtures to precise specifications based on fluctuating facility demands.
In what ways does this role support the integrity of our scientific research? Accuracy and diligence are vital, as the position requires the concise daily logging of all completed work and the performance of comprehensive health checks to ensure the ongoing welfare of the zebrafish colony! Beyond scheduled maintenance, the role demands strong organisational skills and the flexibility to undertake unplanned tasks, including heavy lifting, to meet the evolving needs of the aquarium environment. As a representative of our professional staff, there is a clear expectation to uphold the University Code of Conduct and perform additional duties that align with the grade and strategic remit of the post.
Person Specification
Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and are respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.
Essential:
- Ability to perform repetitive tasks with independent time management
- Knowledge of health and safety procedures
- Knowledge of systematic cleaning methods
- Good communication skills (written and oral) in order to work with other facility users
- Excellent interpersonal skills to enable effective working relationships within the aquarium staff team
- Ability to show initiative
- Ability to work with accuracy
Desirable:
- Previous experience/knowledge of fish husbandry
- Instrumentation skills, including use of microscope
Pay Rate: £13.45 per hour + holiday pay
Location: Biological Services Aquarium
Hours: 10 hours per week
Duration: 30/07/2026 - 30/09/2026
How to Apply: Please send your CV and cover letter to Claire Allen [email protected] using the subject line Job Application - [Aquarium Assistant] - [Applicant Name].