Life Support Systems Technician
Position: City Zoos Life Support Systems Technician
Reports to: CPZ, Collection Manager
Location: City Zoos, Primarily Central Park Zoo
Department: Animal
Position Type: Full-Time
About Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)
WCS stands for wildlife and wild places. As the world’s premier wildlife conservation organization, WCS has a long track record of achieving innovative, impactful results at scale. We run field programs spanning 60 countries and the entire ocean. We build on a unique foundation: Our reach is global; we discover through best-in-class science; we protect through work on the ground with local and indigenous people; we inspire through our world-class zoos, aquarium, and education programs; and we leverage our resources through partnerships and powerful policy influence. Our more than 4,000 diverse, passionately committed team members in New York City and around the world work collectively to achieve our conservation mission.
Job Summary
To manage operations of aquatic Life Support Systems (LSS) at the WCS City Zoos (Central Park. Prospect Park, and Queens Zoos). The LSS Technician monitors all phases of exhibit water treatment processing and ensures all equipment and systems are maintained in proper working order. Technician collaborates with Animal Programs and Operations managers to support staff in the daily operations and maintenance of LSS systems. Coordinate with WCS colleagues and outside consultants on system design, ozone maintenance, and repair, the establishment of standard operating procedures, and chemical treatments as necessary. Ensure that water quality is maintained to meet required water quality standards.
Functions & Responsibilities
Essential Functions
Perform all operational responsibilities for aquatic life support and circulating water systems to meet required water quality standards to maintain animal health and exhibit appearance.
Collaborate with Animal and O&M Department managers to develop and implement all standard operating and safety procedures for the zoos’ life support systems (LSS) and controls. Document LSS system standard operating and maintenance procedures and protocols for each LSS system. Review and update procedures and protocols regularly (at least annually or when systems are modified).
Provide operational and safety training to all staff who perform LSS operational responsibilities.
Test and monitor appropriate water quality parameters such as temperature, water levels, flow, ORP, pH, water chemistry, turbidity, etc. as appropriate for each system.
Monitor proper functioning of all LSS and circulating water system equipment (e.g. pumps, motors, valves, filters, ozone generators, chillers, heat exchangers, UV sterilizers, piping). Maintain pumps, filters, ozonation, and other LSS system equipment and collaborate with Operations and Animal Departments on any necessary maintenance, repairs, or replacement of system components.
Perform preventive maintenance (PM) on all LSS equipment and system components as required to maintain consistent LSS operations.
Maintain water chemistry, treatment, and maintenance records for all systems.
Generate reports as required.
Communicate daily status of systems and water quality to appropriate staff (animal department managers, veterinary technicians, veterinarians, keepers, O&M director, zoo director) as required.
Collaborate with WCS stakeholders and outside consultants in the design of new LSS or other aquatic systems.
Perform troubleshooting and emergency response as needed to maintain critical LSS systems.
Stay current on regulations and best practices, including, but not limited to, USDA, Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accreditation standards and related policies, and AALSO.
Adhere to all WCS and regulatory safety standards, policies, and procedures.
Represent WCS in a professional manner, establish and maintain positive, effective working relationships with employees, colleagues, City and other government agencies, outside contractors, and the general public.
Actively support, advance, and uphold the Society’s policies regarding Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
Perform other related tasks and duties as assigned.
Skills & Experience
Knowledge & Skills
Experience must utilize the principles, skills, and knowledge required to satisfy the principal responsibilities of the position.
Experience in the maintenance of aquariums, aquatic life support systems, and use of water quality testing equipment.
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, manuals, etc.
Ability to safely use tools required for use in plumbing, electrical, or other LSS operations, maintenance, and repair.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Must be fluent in reading, writing, and speaking English.
Multilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.
Computer background and proficiency required.
Competency in computer skills such as Microsoft Office.
Education & Experience
A Bachelors degree in engineering, biology, or other related field,
OR Associates degree with at least 2 years experience in a zoo/aquarium, aquaculture, or commercial water treatment,
OR relevant combination of education and experience.
