Life Support Operator
Located along the Space Coast in Melbourne, Florida, the Brevard Zoo is an AZA-accredited facility with a diverse collection of over 900 animals representing nearly 200 species. It is also home to the Sea Turtle Healing Center for rehabilitation of wild marine turtles. Brevard Zoo is well-known for its strong conservation ethic and unique attractions, such as kayaking through the Africa area, giraffe feeding, and rhinoceros and lemur encounters.
Life Support Operators are responsible for managing and overseeing the function of all designated LSS equipment throughout the zoo. In addition, they must also conduct consistent and thorough water quality testing for all designated systems tracking trends, changes, or concerns as they appear. LSO’s may also be required to facilitate care for different aquatic systems include animal care and act as quarantine keepers for all aquatic species. Diving aquariums is required for maintenance.
Functions & Responsibilities
Essential Functions
• Monitors, records and maintains LSS logs of day-to-day operations of life support systems for aquatic and animal exhibits, water features, and automated control systems. Establishes procedures and practices for inspection, maintenance/repair of equipment
• Inspects systems daily and provides preventative maintenance
• Provides a consistent flow of communications to assure a clear understanding of maintenance requirements and issues, establishing positive teamwork and problem resolution
• Develops and maintains a preventive maintenance schedule log or database of repairs and replaces/rebuilds equipment as needed; tests and assists with all water issues for existing and future systems
• Coordinates and collaborates on life support systems and parameters with departments
• Assists with special events, activities, and seasonal exhibits within the Zoo through communicating and coordinating in preparation and servicing of scheduled events, as assigned by manager
• Develops, coordinates and implements safety related matters for assigned area(s) and personnel, such as staff training, and policy and procedure enforcement. Carries out job duties and responsibilities in a safe and efficient manner and addresses potential hazards for staff, visitors and resident animals
• Maximize the wellbeing of resident animals by applying the most up-to-date research and advanced understanding in animal care, zoo husbandry, and exhibit design to ensure each animal thrives
• Dives aquariums for cleaning and maintenance
• Effectively communicate with direct supervisors, and other members of the organization, to support the overall needs of the department and the organization.
• Assist with Project Management during a Zoo renovation or exhibit build, oversee the maintenance of animal exhibits and coordinate improvements and repairs
• Work with USDA, OSHA, Health Department and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) officials during inspections
Skills & Experience
Knowledge & Skills
• Understanding of LSS and functionality of a wide range of systems
Education & Experience
REQUIRED:
• Associate degree or higher from a recognized college or university
• Must be able to obtain AALSO Level 1 LSO certification within one year of hire
• At least one year of experience working with LSS in an AZA accredited zoo or aquarium
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a capacity for working with people with diverse backgrounds, views, and work styles
• Must be a positive, effective team member and be able to establish professional working relationships
• Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize workload/projects to meet deadlines
• Ability to handle a flexible workload with a variety of assignments while also maintaining composure in an environment that can be stressful and maintain flexible work hours that will serve the needs of the Zoo
• Able to operate independently, exercise initiative, and demonstrate capacity for detail and follow-up
• Ability to adapt to a rapidly changing environment
• Ability to drive a vehicle
• Ability to learn dive safety procedures and dive aquariums as needed.
• Computer competency and proficiency with Microsoft and Adobe programs. Must learn how to use ZIMs with proficiency within six months.
PREFERRED/DESIRED:
• Bachelor’s degree or higher from a recognized college or university or relevant experience
• Three years of experience working with LSS in an AZA accredited zoo or aquarium
• Dive experience. Dive Certification.
Job Requirements
Physical Requirements
(M) Medium Work
Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 25 pounds of force frequently and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects as needed to move objects.
Working Conditions
Indoor office environment most often with frequent movement outdoors. Exposure to extreme heat and weather conditions. Requires Sitting, Standing, Walking, Bending, Stooping, Kneeling, Finger Dexterity, Talking, Hearing, and Visual Acuity frequently.
