Royal Oak, MI //
Posted on: April 13, 2022 //

The Aquatic Life Support Technician installs, monitors, and maintains aquatic life support systems for exhibits at the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center.

The Aquatic Life Support Technician will support, both publicly and privately, the principles and mission of the Detroit Zoological Society. They will support, adhere to and enforce DZS policies and standards, and will always demonstrate a high level of integrity and professionalism.

This job description is by no means all-inclusive and may be subject to change during a performance period due to the needs of the Detroit Zoological Society and its leadership.

Functions & Responsibilities

Essential Functions

Principal Duties and Responsibilities
• Oversee all aquatic life support systems and assist personnel who work with the systems.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations pertaining to water quality for animals.
• Monitor water chemistry, clarity, and temperature.
• Perform required testing of water samples as appropriate.
• Perform other water quality testing related to animal health issues as appropriate.
• Administer chemical treatment of pools as needed.
• Perform maintenance of life support systems, including, but not limited to, backwashing filters, cleaning filters, cleaning tanks, and replacing parts.
• Maintain water chemistry, treatment, and maintenance records.
• Design and install single- and multi-tank life support systems for fish, amphibians, and invertebrates.
• Contribute to the planning and design of new facilities with aquatic life support components.
• Oversee and participate in the installation of new systems when necessary.
• Conduct educational presentations in both formal and informal settings.
• Perform other duties as required.

Skills & Experience

Education & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in an aquatic science or a related engineering field.

One year of experience working with aquaculture or public aquarium life support systems.

Job Requirements

Physical Requirements

This position requires the individual to sit for long periods of time as well as moderate physical effort on a daily basis such as walking, bending, stooping, and standing for an extended period of time. The Aquatic Life Support Technician must be able to lift and move up to 50 pounds.
The individual must have the ability to perform the essential functions of the job satisfactorily with or without accommodations. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.

Working Conditions

Work is performed indoors and outdoors with exposure to all seasonal weather conditions, with frequent exposure to and contact with dangerous animals, with risk of zoonotic disease transmission (Hepatitis B, Herpes B, Tuberculosis, Salmonella and others), and with exposure to computer monitors. Weekend and evening will be required as necessary. Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive actions. Emergency response to aquatic life support and water quality issues will be required as necessary.

Salary & Benefits