Life Support Systems Foreman
Leads LSS Water Quality crew in performing activities related to general and preventative maintenance and inspections on all life support systems at Columbus Zoological Park Association properties
Functions & Responsibilities
Essential Functions
• Acts as a team leader for LSS staff, assigning work, monitoring and reporting back to manager as necessary.
• Communicates daily with team, supervisor and animal care staff with regard to LSS and water quality issues as they relate to animal health and safety.
• Operates, monitors, maintains and (minor) repairs equipment including but not limited to pumps, plumbing, valves, filters, oxidizers, controllers, sensors, air blowers, lab equipment, ozone generators including air prep, chillers and heat exchangers.
• Works closely with team to monitor and maintain water quality including but not limited to nitrogen cycles, salinity, pH, temperature, copper sulfate, ORP, hardness, alkalinity, dissolved oxygen, phosphate, turbidity and chlorine.
• Maintains efficient operation of backwashes including recovery system and water reclamation. Prepares and transfers saltwater
• Coordinates and delivers training to crew including but not limited to safety training.
• Provides general and preventative maintenance and inspections on all life support systems.
Other Duties & Responsibilities
• Provides general maintenance to any and all tools/equipment utilized in the performance of job duties.
• Implements preventative maintenance programs based on the manufacturer’s requirements and best practices.
• Records all test results, maintenance, inspections and repair activity in the appropriate equipment log.
• Operates motorized vehicles and specialized equipment related to job.
• May be assigned to provide work direction/leadership to seasonal associates.
• Monitors environment for potential problems, reports them to supervisor, and recommends solutions.
• Dives and serves as standby diver or DPIC regularly.
• Participates in maintenance and repair activities for all systems and environments as directed.
• Assures safety of self, staff, animals and guests through regular participation in safety training and activities; compliance with standard operating procedures; and, proper operation and maintenance of equipment.
• Assists other facilities staff as required.
• Participates in cross-training activities as directed.
• Constantly strives to further the mission of the organization and avidly supports the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Zoombezi Bay, Safari Golf Club and The Wilds.
• Implements sustainable practices in daily tasks whenever possible.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
Skills & Experience
Knowledge & Skills
• Aquatic Animal Life Support Operators certificate preferred.
• Become familiar with and understand the USDDA/APHIS Animal Welfare Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
• S.C.U.B.A. certification required or ability to obtain S.C.U.B.A. certification within one year of employment.
• Read, review and understand the systems’ manufacturer’s operation and maintenance manuals.
• Thorough understanding of biological, mechanical and chemical filtration systems.
• Ability to pass dive program annual swim test and physical exam required.
• Ability to communicate well both verbally and in writing required.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings, weekends and holidays required.
• Ability to plan and organize work in an efficient and cost-effective manner and without direct supervision required.
• Ability to provide excellent guest service by positively interacting with guests and upholding the Make it G.R.E.A.T. standards required.
• Ability to develop and maintain cooperative working relationships with all Zoo team members and contacts regarding company business required.
• Ability to adhere to standard operating procedures including but not limited to safety protocols required.
• Proof of negative TB screening prior to placement and annually thereafter required.
• Possession of a valid Ohio motor vehicle operator’s license and a good driving record required, as well as ability to operate standard shift vehicles required.
• Ability to adhere to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s drug-free workplace policy including but not limited to pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion and follow-up treatment required.
• Ability to successfully complete a criminal history background check annually required.
Education & Experience
• Five years LSS and water quality experience required.
• Minimum of one year supervisory experience.
• Bachelor’s Degree in chemistry, biology or relevant field required.
Job Requirements
Physical Requirements
Sitting: Rarely
Standing: Continuously
Walking: Continuously
Bending: Continuously
Squatting: Frequently
Kneeling: Frequently
Crawling: Rarely
Climbing: Frequently
Reaching: Continuously
Grasping: Continuously
Fine Manipulation: Occasionally
Working Conditions
Indoor/ Outdoor
