Facility Operator I

Facility Operator I

Mississippi Aquarium //
Gulfport, MS //
Posted on: March 25, 2021 //

The position reports to the Director of Facility Operations. The Facility Operator I is responsible for performing equipment maintenance tasks, cleaning, and general labor pertaining to animal life support systems and building mechanical systems. The ability to make accurate assessments of filter status and the cleaning schedule of filters is essential. Basic operational knowledge of animal life support and mechanical systems is necessary for this position.

Functions & Responsibilities

Essential Functions

Washing and cleaning filters and components

Housekeeping of LSS and mechanical system equipment, fixtures and work spaces

Unloading and warehousing of operational consumables and supplies

Assist other operators with daily tasks

Receive, distribute and store various controlled products such as chlorine

General repairs and maintenance

Availability to work weekends, holidays, on-call rotation, weather events and respond to emergencies on a 24-hour basis if needed

Participate in staff meetings and provide relevant input

Undertake special projects as assigned by the Director of Facility Operations

Consistent and proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including but not limited to a fitted respirator, eye and ear protection, gloves, hard hat, harness, steel-toed footwear

Skills & Experience

Knowledge & Skills

Written and verbal communication skills in order to comprehend detailed instructions in English

Ability to lift a minimum of sixty (60) pounds. Experience performing work that requires physical strength, stamina and good physical coordination

Carry out routine tasks with minimal supervision
Able to negotiate various field conditions – hot, cold, humid, wet, ice, wind, odors, smoke, uneven ground, etc;

Able to work in a standing, kneeling, squatting or prone position for extended periods of time

Valid driver’s license required

Education & Experience

High school diploma

Minimum of 1 or more years of experience operating LSS and/or building mechanical systems

Aquatic Animal Life Support Operator (AALSO) Level 1 preferred

Prior experience operating commercial filtration equipment, mechanical equipment, HVAC, Building control systems beneficial

Experience with power tools, hand tools, welding, and fabrication using a variety of materials

Able to work in spaces with limited clearance, at heights, and/or close contact with other team members

Able to work safely in close proximity to animals

Fall protection and Confined Space entry certification or the ability to receive certification within 1 year of employment. Training provided as necessary

Job Requirements

Physical Requirements

The physical demands and work environment 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 stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; taste or smell – any or all of which may be for extended periods. The employee must often lift and/or move up to 60 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to high.

Salary & Benefits