Aquarium Life Support Operator (Full-time)

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.