Life Support Systems Manager
Under the direction of the Director of Husbandry, the Life Support Systems Manager leads both the Life Support Systems and Water Quality teams. The LSS Team is responsible for the daily operation, maintenance, and repair of all life support systems, both aquatic and terrestrial, while the Water Quality Team runs the Water Quality Laboratory in which water quality testing and analysis of salt and fresh water occurs. The Life Support Systems Manager uses independent judgment and critical thinking to problem solve, collaborate with team members, both within and outside of the LSS and Water Quality teams, and provide all necessary direction to LSS and Water Quality staff and volunteers. This role is a vital participant in the leadership of the Living Collections Department.
Functions & Responsibilities
Essential Functions
Works closely with the Life Support Systems Supervisor and Water Laboratory Supervisor to ensure complete coordination of life support system functions.
Perform ongoing inspections and ensure proper preventative maintenance, routine upkeep and repair of all life support systems and related components.
Oversee and ensure proper entry to create accurate logs and records to ensure that all staff complies with record keeping procedures.
Works closely with the Living Collections leadership to ensure seamless coordination between groups to ensure the highest level of care provided to our animals.
Responsible for design, implementation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of life support systems and water quality.
Required to be a first responder to all alarms and issues that may arise.
Manage and facilitate large projects from inception to completion. Coordinates the work of others, frequently consisting of a diverse interdepartmental team. Documents status and progress and maintains appropriate communication with stakeholders.
Contribute to the design of life support systems for temporary tanks, modifications of existing systems, or future additions as necessary.
Manages a diverse staff of employees and volunteers including the selection, training, scheduling, and evaluation of staff.
Develops and maintains budget for the life support systems team.
Manages and orders inventory and equipment for life support.
Manages water disposal to sanitary sewer in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations.
Adhere to and abide by Federal, State, and local agency laws, regulations, codes, and ordinances, as well as AZA standards. Maintains current knowledge of techniques and equipment used in the field.
Contribute to the mission of the California Science Center by stimulating curiosity and inspiring science learning by creating fun, memorable experiences for the guests.
Perform other duties as required
Skills & Experience
Education & Experience
Good Candidates Have:
5+ years of experience and training in a similar supervisory role, managing a diverse and technical staff.
Advanced knowledge of life support equipment and its effect on water quality, especially in recirculating systems.
Experience operating, maintaining, designing, and construction of life support systems for marine and freshwater applications.
Experience operating automated life support systems with demonstrated ability to work with various computer programs and software related to essential functions of the position.
Experience with light construction, electrical, and problem-solving mechanical systems.
Experience creating and maintaining budgets, as well as procuring equipment, parts, supplies, etc.
Must be able to work in an industrial work environment including confined spaces, areas with low headroom and difficult access, as well as with hazardous chemicals.
Must be able to respond to all alarm notifications and 24/7 emergencies.
Ability to work a flexible schedule that includes weekends and holidays as required.
Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds, kneel, bend, crouch, squat, stand for extended periods of time, and work outside in varying weather conditions.
Sound judgment and ability to use critical thinking for effective decision-making.
Strong written and verbal communication, especially when related to technical vernacular.
Demonstrated leadership ability.
Great Candidates Also Have:
Supervisory experience within an AZA or closely related animal care facility.
Aquatic Animal Life Support Operators Level 1 (or higher) certification.
Have at least a Rescue Diver Certification or the ability to get the certification within 4 months of hire, the ability to pass annual dive physical requirements, and the ability to maintain active diver status with the California Science Center
Have at least 50 logged dives.
Knowledge of AZA standards and requirements of animal care within them.
Knowledge of and ability to adhere/enforce OSHA and Cal OSHA standards and proper use of personal protective equipment in an aquarium/zoo environment.
Demonstrated ability to work with Smartsheets, Teams, and Tracks computer systems
