Life Support Operator & Water Quality Tech – Level 1
Reid Park Zoological Society //
Tucson, AZ //
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
- 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.
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)
Salary & Benefits
Salary: $20.75 to $24.38 p/h DOE
