Life Support Engineer
The National Aquarium is seeking a Life Support Engineer (LSE) to perform daily operations and monitor LS equipment for the large exhibit systems throughout the aquarium facility. Responsible for monitoring and maintaining water levels, back washing large sand filters, monitoring/adjusting air flow and ozone generator adjustments and all other equipment vital to the operation of life support systems as directed by the senior engineering staff or Director of Life Support.
- Operates life support systems for the large aquarium exhibits: Atlantic Coral Reef, Open Ocean, Black Tip Reef, Australia and the Dolphin exhibit
- Operation of large sand filters, including back washes
- Perform water transfers between Pier 3 and Pier 4 buildings
- Monitor water levels in the exhibits and top off as needed
- Monitor and adjust tank temperatures per protocols
- Receive salt deliveries, and prepare raw saltwater for aquarium use
- Daily visual inspections of filter readings, valve positions, flow rates, and pressure differentials
- Maintain daily log sheet documentation
- Monitor readings and trends in Metasys (software used by LS); recognize issues and respond per protocols established by Director of Life Support.
- Inspect ozone generators, pumps, motors, blowers, chillers, etc and report problems to Sr. Engineer and/or Director of Life Support.
- Measure salinity and residual oxidant levels as directed by the lab or engineers
- Understand principles of biological, mechanical and chemical filtration
- Manage the daily applied dose adjustments for ozone use in the Dolphin exhibit as directed by Sr. Engineer and/or Director of Life Support
- Reporting
- Daily documentation of log sheets, computer entries as directed by Sr. Engineer
- Update Ozone Distribution List with daily status of the Dolphin pool adjustments
- Contact designated Biological Programs staff of important updates that affect their exhibits
- Safety/Hazardous Materials
- Complies with all safety protocols established by National AquariumInteracts with LS engineers, Biological Programs staff (aquarists, dolphin trainers, curators) on a daily basis
- Interacts with LS engineers, Biological Programs staff (aquarists, dolphin trainers, curators) on a daily basis
- Able to apply logic to tracing pipelines, basic mechanical skills and equipment maintenance.
- Demonstrate complex problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm and professional during emergency procedures
- Support company mission.
- Adhere to all organizational and departmental policies and procedures.
- Other duties as assigned or required.
Functions & Responsibilities
Skills & Experience
Knowledge & Skills
- Knowledge of water filtration, water chemistry, aquarium keeping and related support equipment preferred.
- Able to lift and carry 50 pounds
- Safely climb ladders
- Work in small spaces
- Basic swimming skills
- Basic mechanical aptitude and logical problem-solving skills
- Proficient with commonly used software in Microsoft Office Suite, and Metasys as applied to National Aquarium life support
Education & Experience
- High School diploma or equivalent education and experience.
- Knowledge of water filtration, water chemistry, aquarium keeping and related support equipment preferred.
- Basic mechanical aptitude and logical problem-solving skills
- Proficient with commonly used software in Microsoft Office Suite, and Metasys as applied to National Aquarium life support
Job Requirements
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
- Safely climb ladders
- Ability to swim
Working Conditions
- Working in small areas
Salary & Benefits
Hourly range ($17.64-22.74) with hours worked over 40 in a week eligible for overtime, premium pay for National Aquarium recognized holidays, and shift differential for overnight shifts. National Aquarium provides an excellent benefits package including four weeks paid time off, six paid floating holidays, up to four weeks of paid family leave and conservation day leave. Employees are eligible for health care (single and family) after 30 days of full-time work and 401(k) plan participation with employer match available. Employees receive a family membership package and Aquarium tickets.