Life Support Operator & Water Quality Tech 1
The Life Support Operator & Water Quality Technician – Level I is responsible for the routine operation and basic maintenance of aquatic life support systems and the collection and testing of water samples at Reid Park Zoo. This entry-level position supports the Life Support & Water Quality team in ensuring all aquatic environments meet or exceed standards for animal health, safety, and welfare as defined by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA). The position works under close supervision, gaining experience in mechanical systems, water treatment processes, and preventative maintenance.
Functions & Responsibilities
Essential Functions
Reports To: Facilities Manager
General Duties
Demonstrate and model the core values of the Reid Park Zoological Society (RPZS or the Zoo)
Perform duties in accordance with RPZS policies and procedures
Provide excellent customer service as a component of all job duties
Follow Zoo safety protocols and procedures
Monitor and operate life support equipment, including pumps, filters, ozone systems, UV sterilizers, chillers, and heat exchangers.
Assist with routine inspections and basic preventative maintenance on life support equipment.
Perform water quality testing (e.g., temperature, pH, chlorine, salinity, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, dissolved oxygen).
Record and report test results accurately to senior staff or supervisor.
Assist with adjustments to system operations or chemical dosing under supervision.
Maintain accurate records of daily rounds, water testing data, and completed maintenance tasks.
Assist with inventory of chemicals, parts, and supplies.
Follow all safety procedures when working with chemicals, machinery, and confined spaces.
Support emergency response procedures and participates in drills as directed.
Work cooperatively with Animal Care and Facilities Teams
Maintain cleanliness and organization of life support areas, mechanical rooms, and workspaces.
Skills & Experience
Knowledge & Skills
- High school diploma or equivalent required. Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
- A valid, current, unrestricted driver license
- Successfully complete pre-hire background check and pre-employment drug screen (we do not test for THC)
- Comply with quarterly random drug testing if selected
- Proof of negative TB test within the past 12 months (renewed annually, company paid).
- Basic understanding of pumps, filters, valves, and plumbing systems.
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately.
- Detail-oriented, reliable, and safety-focused.
- AALSO LSS Operator 1 Certification or ability to obtain within a year of employment
- AALSO Water Quality 1 Certification or ability to obtain within a year of employment
- Participates in emergency drills
- Excellent interpersonal communication skills and ability to maintain positive, constructive relationships, at all levels, with a diverse population of staff, guests, vendors and the public
- Assertive, energetic, and enjoy working in a fast paced, public/guest attraction focused environment
- Ability to take direction, constructive feedback, act or change direction as needed
- Regular physical attendance at work
- Reliable and able to work to a schedule
- Must be able to work weekends, holidays, evenings, and participate in on-call rotation as needed.
Education & Experience
High School Diploma or Equivalent required. Relevant degree preferred.
Job Requirements
Physical Requirements
- Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds often
- Bend, stoop, kneel, reach frequently
- Stand and walk for long periods of time
- Repetitious motions with hands
- Ability to use hands to control power and hand tools
- Work in wet, hot, humid, noisy, and outdoor environments, including confined spaces and at heights
- Ability to work around chemicals, biohazards and machinery noise (PPE provided)
- Preferred Qualifications, Skills and Abilities
Working Conditions
Work is performed primarily outdoors. Must be comfortable working outdoors in varying climate to include extreme heat, rainy and cold conditions. Southern Arizona is considered the ‘high desert’.