Job Description

Job Summary:

The Senior Life Support Systems Technician will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations and maintenance of life support systems (LSS) that ensure the health and well-being of aquatic and terrestrial animals under the facility's care. This role requires a combination of expertise in animal husbandry, life support system technology, and team leadership. The successful candidate will ensure that all LSS equipment is functioning optimally, manage a team of animal keepers, and work closely with other departments to maintain a safe and enriching environment for the animals.

Key Responsibilities:

Life Support System Management:

• Oversee the operation, maintenance, and repair of life support systems, including filtration, water quality control, plumbing, mechanical equipment, and temperature and humidity regulation for aquatic and terrestrial exhibits and enclosures.
• Work closely with the Senior Environmental Quality Keeper to ensure aquatic and terrestrial parameters are impacted as little as possible by down or malfunctioning LSS.
• Implement and audit teamwork for compliance with standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the maintenance and operation of LSS equipment.
• Coordinate with the Curator, national husbandry, and guest services teams to ensure timely repairs and upgrades to life support systems.
• Conduct regular inspections and preventive maintenance per SOP of all LSS equipment to minimize downtime and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.

Team Leadership:

• Supervise and mentor a team of animal keepers, providing guidance, training, and performance evaluations.
• Assign tasks, and ensure that all team members adhere to safety protocols and SOPs.
• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment, promoting professional development and growth among team members.
• Lead by example, demonstrating a strong commitment to animal welfare and conservation.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Work closely with curators, national husbandry team, and other Senior Keepers to support the facility’s mission and goals.
• Participate in planning and implementing new exhibits and upgrades to existing ones.
• Communicate effectively with staff, visitors, and national team, providing updates on LSS operations.
• Represent the facility in professional organizations and at conferences, sharing knowledge and staying updated on industry trends.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology, Zoology, Animal Science, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a zoo, aquarium, or similar facility, with a focus on life support systems and animal care.
• Proven experience in maintaining and operating complex life support systems.
• Strong leadership skills with experience in managing and developing a team.
• Knowledge of water chemistry, filtration systems, and aquatic animal husbandry.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work under pressure.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across departments.
• Certification in SCUBA diving (preferred).
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds and work in various weather conditions.

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