The Two Oceans Aquarium is looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Water Quality Specialist to join our Curatorial team. This is an exciting opportunity for a recently qualified individual with a passion for aquatic life support systems, water chemistry and engineering to begin a rewarding career in one of South Africa's leading conservation organisations.
Working behind the scenes, you will help ensure the delivery of exceptional water quality that supports the health and welfare of thousands of marine and freshwater animals. You will gain practical experience maintaining sophisticated life support systems while working alongside experienced aquarists, technicians and veterinarians.
Key Responsibilities:
• Monitor the Aquarium's freshwater and seawater life support systems.
• Conduct routine water quality testing and accurately record results.
• Monitor water chemistry and assist with corrective actions where required.
• Perform routine preventative maintenance on filtration and water treatment equipment when required.
• Troubleshoot and report equipment faults.
• Support animal care staff during exhibit maintenance.
• Assist with the operation and maintenance of pumps, filters, protein skimmers, dosing systems, ozone systems and associated equipment.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety procedures.
• Participate in the after-hours standby roster when required.
Minimum Requirements:
• Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Water Quality Management, Analytical Chemistry or related field
• A genuine interest in water treatment systems and aquatic animal welfare.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn.
• Computer literacy (Microsoft Office).
• Valid driver's licence.
Personal Attributes:
The successful candidate will:
• Be curious and eager to learn.
• Have excellent problem-solving skills.
• Enjoy practical, hands-on work.
• Be organised and detail-oriented.
• Work well independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Be physically fit and comfortable working in wet environments and confined plant rooms.
• Be willing to work weekends, public holidays and after-hours when required.
Reporting to: General Curator
Starting date: 1 October 2026 or sooner
Salary: To be discussed at interview
Preference will be given to candidates who will add to the diversity of our organization. The Aquarium reserves the right not to make an appointment in the event that no suitable candidates apply for the position as advertised.
Interested applicants must email a maximum 2-page CV with a covering letter of motivation to email address vacancies@aquarium.co.za
Closing date for applications: 21 August 2026
If no response is received within 14 days after the closing date, candidates should regard their application as unsuccessful