IMMEDIATE OPENING:

Koi Pond Keeper

Koi fish gathered together in the koi pond

Job Title: Koi Pond Keeper

Location: Poolesville, MD

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary/Rate: $52,000/year

Join Our Team

We’re seeking a dependable, motivated individual to join our team as a Koi Pond Keeper. This unique position combines the technical aspects of pond management with the rewarding responsibility of caring for beautiful Japanese koi.

The ideal candidate enjoys working outdoors, appreciates hands-on physical work, and has either experience with pond systems or a genuine enthusiasm for koi and their care. If you already possess both, that would be ideal.

Successful candidates understand that healthy koi depend on healthy ponds. Maintaining excellent water quality, filtration, and pond systems is every bit as important as observing the fish themselves.

At the same time, we are looking for someone who enjoys being around koi and wants to learn about their history, varieties, development, and care. Whether you already keep koi or are eager to immerse yourself in the hobby, we want someone who finds satisfaction in helping these remarkable fish thrive.

Experience with ponds and filtration systems is highly valued, as is experience keeping koi or other aquatic animals. If you’re stronger in one area than the other, we’re committed to providing the training needed to help you become a well-rounded Koi Pond Keeper.

You’ll work alongside an experienced groundskeeper who understands every aspect of our pond systems while also learning the fundamentals of koi husbandry, health observation, and fish handling.

Responsibilities

Pond & Filtration Maintenance

Maintain mechanical and biological filtration systems.
Perform scheduled water changes.
Remove algae and debris.
Keep ponds and surrounding work areas clean, attractive, and functioning properly.
Monitor pumps, plumbing, and other pond equipment to ensure reliable operation.

Water Quality Management

Test and monitor water quality, including pH, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, temperature, and other key parameters.
Maintain accurate records.
Assist with treatments and water-quality adjustments as needed.

Koi Care & Health Observation

Observe the koi daily for normal behavior, appetite, and overall health.
Report changes or concerns to the owner.
Assist with health checks and treatments under guidance.
Learn to recognize different koi varieties, growth patterns, and indicators of good health.

Fish Handling

Safely catch, transfer, and move koi between ponds and inspection tanks.
Assist with measuring, photographing, and evaluating fish.
Learn proper handling techniques that minimize stress and protect the fish.

Seasonal Koi Sales

During peak sales periods, you’ll assist with:

Selecting and catching koi for customers.
Measuring and photographing fish.
Preparing fish for transport.
Assisting customers as they select fish.
Organizing paperwork and supporting sales logistics.

Teamwork

Work closely with our resident groundskeeper on daily maintenance and seasonal projects.
Continue developing your knowledge of pond systems, water quality, and koi husbandry through hands-on experience.

Work Environment

This is primarily an outdoor position, with responsibilities changing throughout the seasons.

We provide:

An air-conditioned office and break area during hot weather.
A heated indoor space during colder months.
All equipment and ongoing training needed for success.

Physical Requirements

Applicants should be able to:

Stand and walk for extended periods.
Bend, kneel, and lift up to 50 pounds.
Work comfortably in varying weather conditions.
Safely handle equipment, nets, and live fish.

Qualifications

We’re looking for someone who brings a combination of the following:

Experience maintaining ponds, water features, aquaculture systems, or similar outdoor environments or a strong willingness to learn.
A genuine interest in koi and a desire to learn about their care, history, varieties, and development.
An understanding that excellent pond maintenance and excellent fish care go hand in hand.
A strong work ethic and dependable attendance.
Good observational skills and attention to detail.
A willingness to learn, accept feedback, and consistently follow established care protocols.
The ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

The following are considered strong assets:

Experience with koi, aquariums, aquaculture, or ornamental fish.
Experience with pond filtration systems or water-quality management.
Landscaping or grounds maintenance experience.
Customer service or sales experience.

What You’ll Gain

This is an opportunity to develop expertise in both the technical and biological sides of koi keeping. You’ll receive hands-on training in pond filtration systems, water chemistry, fish handling, koi husbandry, and the care of high-quality Japanese koi.

We’re looking for someone who values both the science of maintaining exceptional pond systems and the privilege of caring for these extraordinary fish. If you’re excited by both aspects of the work, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply for This Position

Full Name *

Street Address *

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Professional & Pond Ecosystem Experience
Please provide a summary of your experience with aquatic health, water quality maintenance (ammonia/nitrite/nitrate cycles), filtration systems, and koi health management:

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Affirmations & Consents

Background Check Consent *

I authorize a comprehensive background check as a condition of employment to ensure the safety of our community and animals. I understand any history of violence or harm will disqualify my application. I understand that Kunzang Palyul Choling Buddhist Temple may conduct a criminal background check as part of the hiring process; however, this inquiry will only be conducted after a conditional offer of employment has been extended.

Respect for Values *

I acknowledge this position operates within a Buddhist environment at Kunzang Palyul Choling. I agree to respect the authority of the Spiritual Guide and follow her guidance regarding the care, welfare, and development of our koi and pond ecosystems.

UNDER MARYLAND LAW, AN EMPLOYER MAY NOT REQUIRE OR DEMAND, AS A CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT, PROSPECTIVE EMPLOYMENT, OR CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT, THAT AN INDIVIDUAL SUBMIT TO OR TAKE A LIE DETECTOR OR SIMILAR TEST. AN EMPLOYER WHO VIOLATES THIS LAW IS GUILTY OF A MISDEMEANOR AND SUBJECT TO A FINE NOT EXCEEDING $100.

Acknowledgement *

By checking this box, I affirm that I have read, understand, and agree to the above terms.

Kunzang Palyul Choling is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or disability.

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Application Received! Our team will be in touch if your background is a good match for our pond ecosystems.

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