The Aquarium Life Support Operator is responsible for the operation and maintenance of all large-scale LSS systems within the Frost Science Museum complex. This staff person also assists the Aquarist Team as needed with respect to modifications/additions regarding the small scale, self-standing LSS packages. The Aquarium Life Support Operator works collaboratively throughout the Museum in a creative environment and contributes to the efficient operation of the department. This position works a schedule set by the supervisor and may encompass non-traditional days and hours and may be asked to report to work for life support or animal care emergencies.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Follow all policies and procedures of Frost Science Museum, and the Animal Husbandry Department.
- Adhere to all federal and state guidelines, regulations, and laws.
- Perform regular mechanical, electrical, and plumbing repairs and preventative maintenance.
- Supervised operation of all LSS.
- Conduct rounds of all filtration areas to inspect pumps, motors, ozone generators, chillers, boilers, and other related LSS equipment.
- Water testing using correct lab practices and procedures (as needed).
- Supervised addition of chemicals to LSS.
- Maintain communication with Supervisors and other disciplines within the Life Support Team and Animal Husbandry Department.
- Use computers for communication, LSS monitoring/operation, reference, and reports/logs.
- Use of radio based communication equipment.
- Keep records and inventory.
- Assist (if needed) in animal medical procedures.
- Assist (if needed) in animal moves and transport operations.
- Perform back of house educational lectures and conduct tours of LSS spaces as assigned.
- Participate in the inter- and intra-departmental cross training program.
- Cleans back-up areas including scrubbing, mopping, vacuuming water and pest control.
- Participates in system design and fabrication in keeping with animal behavior and biological needs.
- Participates in and presents at workshops, seminars, lectures, member programs and tours.
- Responds life-support and animal related emergencies, at times after hours.
- Coordinates daily activities though effective communication with staff and volunteers.
- Provides back-up support to other departments as needed.
- Adheres to all organizational and departmental policies and procedures
- Ensures that goals for an excellent visitor experience are met and maintained.
- Other duties as assigned or required
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Knowledge of life support systems and water quality parameters for aquatic species.
- Must have keen observation skills and be highly detail-oriented and adept at problem solving.
- Skill in organizing resources and maintaining priorities.
- Skill in database management.
- Ability to construct and operate aquatic Life Support Systems, including plumbing and carpentry.
- Knowledge in mechanical and electrical repair work.
- Ability to use hand and power tools.
- Ability to work collaboratively to implement Museum and departmental goals.
- Ability to manage and impart information to a range of clientele, staff members and/or media sources.
- Ability to follow laws and regulations relating to the care of wildlife in accordance with the Museum and industry best practices.
- Ability to create, compose, and edit written materials using basic computer skills in Word, Excel, internet navigation, e-mail and spreadsheet programs.
- Ability to problem solve and troubleshoot problems.
- Ability to create, compose, and edit written materials.
- Ability to decide when to act independently and when to seek consultation of curatorial staff.
- Able to work well with supervisors and staff.
- Ability to mentor and train new interns, volunteers and staff.
- Ability to develop and maintain professional business relationships with co-workers, volunteer staff, interns, colleagues at other facilities and outside vendors.
- Ability to work holidays, weekends and a non-traditional work week as well as respond to after-hours emergencies.
- Requires the willingness to work with chemicals (PPE provided) and follow MSDS/SDS.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
- High school diploma or GED required. Associates or technical degree in related field desirable.
- Previous experience in life support operation at an aquarium or zoo through internships, volunteer work, or full-time position (work in an AZA accredited facility is preferred).
- Previous experience with Johnson Controls Metasys systems is highly desirable.
- Driver’s license or ability to get one.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
- Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to handle, or feel; and talk and hear.
- The employee is required to stand and walk for prolonged periods of time, along with climbing and reaching with hands and arms.
- The employee must occasionally lift and/or move from to 50 to 70 pounds.
- Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
- Must be able to work in high and low/ places.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
- The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those as employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
- Work is performed both indoors and in outdoor settings.
- Outdoor work subject to temperatures up to 100 degrees, rain, humidity and sun.
- Pump room environment has a high noise level (PPE Provided).
CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS
- Background clearance
- Drug screening as part of the Drug-Free Workplace Program.