Life Support Operator
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. //
Saint Paul, Minnesota //
Apply by: August 11, 2025
This essential role is responsible for the daily operation, inspection, maintenance, and monitoring of complex life support systems that sustain aquatic exhibits and animal habitats.
Functions & Responsibilities
Essential Functions
- Operate, maintain, and monitor advanced life support systems including pumps, ozone generators, filtration units, and chillers.
- Perform daily water quality testing and coordinate with laboratory staff to ensure proper chemical balance and animal health.
- Troubleshoot and repair system issues and equipment malfunctions to prevent disruptions to animal habitats.
- Conduct routine preventative maintenance and system inspections to ensure consistent, high-quality operation.
- Maintain accurate records of water testing, system performance, and maintenance activities.
Skills & Experience
Knowledge & Skills
- AALSO Level 1,2,3 certification preferred
- PADI Rescue Diver Scuba certification or equivalent
Education & Experience
- A Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Marine Biology, Chemistry, Zoology, Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
- Three or more years of experience with life support systems, current within the last five years.
- Experience must include the majority of the following: operating, maintaining, and building life support systems for marine and freshwater systems, experience with pumps, filters, fractionators, UV sterilizers, heat exchangers, ozone systems, and automated control equipment.
- Experience working in an AZA accredited institution.
Job Requirements
Working Conditions
Standing, sitting, walking for extended periods. Extreme temperatures, indoors and outdoors in Minnesota climate. Subject to strong odors.
Salary & Benefits
Salary: $59,363.20 - $82,888.00 Annually
City Paid Benefits: Health Insurance, Vacation/Holidays, Sick Leave, Life Insurance
Subsidized Metro Bus Pass, Deferred Compensation, Retirement Program
Optional Benefits: Dental, Flexible Spending Accounts, Disability Insurance
Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, Long Term Care Insurance
Subsidized Metro Bus Pass, Deferred Compensation, Retirement Program
Optional Benefits: Dental, Flexible Spending Accounts, Disability Insurance
Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, Long Term Care Insurance
