Natasha Ortiz
Largo,FL
Summary
Knowledgeable Aquatic Specialist experienced in maintaining diverse ecosystems and promoting marine life health. Skilled in care and management practices for various aquatic species. Collaborates effectively within teams and utilizes problem-solving skills to improve operational efficiency. Demonstrates strong attention to detail while managing pet care responsibilities and addressing individual animal needs.
Overview
1
1
Certification
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Aquarist
Marine Exploration Center (MEC)
2025.10 - Current
- Conducted SCUBA underwater inspections to assess marine life and habitat conditions.
- Monitored aquarium health and water quality using testing equipment and protocols.
- Food-prepped diets for a variety of animals, following proper handling and portioning guidelines.
- Participated in inventory management of supplies and animal feed to ensure availability.
- Conducted routine observations of animal behavior, reporting any anomalies to senior staff.
- Trained new team members on standard operating procedures, safety protocols, and animal handling techniques for a smooth onboarding process.
- Streamlined daily husbandry tasks, including tank upkeep, habitat monitoring, and maintaining clean and safe environments for marine life
- Educated the public on aquatic life and habitats by delivering dynamic, fact-driven tours while promoting animal welfare and positive guest relations
Pet Sitter
Rover
2025.10 - Current
- Ensured well-being and comfort of multiple pets through attentive care.
- implemented best practices for animal safety during walks and playtime.
- Developed and maintained daily schedules for pet feeding, exercise and medication administration.
- Communicated regularly with pet owners to update them on their pets' activities and health.
- Monitored pet behavior to identify signs of stress or illness, reporting concerns promptly.
Restaurant Host
Ulele
2024.01 - 2026.07
- Greeted and seated guests, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere.
- Trained new hosts on operational procedures and customer service standards
- Collaborated with team members to maintain cleanliness and organization of front-of-house areas.
- Managed the flow of restaurant traffic, strategically assigning tables based on server availability and guest preferences for optimal efficiency.
- Took reservations and to-go orders by phone, answered customer questions, and informed of accurate wait times
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL08.2025
Skills
- Animal Husbandry
- Aquarium maintenance
- Feeding and nutrition
- Quarantine procedures
- AAAAAnimal safety
- Aquarium health management
- Aquatic habitat management
- Record keeping
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Guest education
- Reliability
Certification
Open Water Scuba Diver, Scuba Diving International (SDI) - issued February 2026
Timeline
Aquarist
Marine Exploration Center (MEC)
2025.10 - Current
Pet Sitter
Rover
2025.10 - Current
Restaurant Host
Ulele
2024.01 - 2026.07
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
University of South Florida