Life Support Systems Technician
Environmental Quality provides internal services to Mystic Aquarium’s animal care teams. Demonstration of a positive, can-do attitude and a teamwork focused work ethic are always required.
The Life Support System Systems (LSS) Technician is responsible for daily operations, monitoring, maintenance, and repair of primary and ancillary aquatic life support system equipment while ensuring the highest standard of care for Mystic Aquarium’s animal collection.
This position assists the Manager of Life Support Systems in: monitoring, preserving, and modifying existing water treatment processes; installing new equipment and process components; and identifying/acquiring critical equipment, components, supplies, and consumables.
Functions & Responsibilities
Essential Functions
Maintain clean and safe work environments.
• Keep accountability for tools and inventory and maintain neat and orderly storage.
• Consistently provide guests and internal customers service at, or above, expectations.
• Operate, maintain, and repair aquatic life support equipment including but not limited to: filters, pumps, protein fractionators, ultraviolet sterilizers, ozone generators and monitors, chemical dosing equipment, heat exchangers, water treatment controls, and process instrumentation.
• Thoroughly follow instructions and carry out projects and assignments in a team and/or independent setting with minimal supervision and complete assignments efficiently and effectively.
• Maintain effective and thorough written and verbal communications and exhibit respectful behavior in these communications.
• Demonstrate compliance with Mystic Aquarium’s standards, State and Federal regulatory requirements and industry standards.
• Work cross-functionally with Zoological Operations staff including the Manager of Water Quality, Water Quality Technicians, animal husbandry staff, Dive Safety Officer, and Veterinarians, as well as outside contractors and vendors, to facilitate the highest degree of animal care and welfare.
• Assist with developing and implementing systems and standard operating procedures.
• Move and distribute controlled materials and chemicals and adhere to SDS and PPE protocols and safety recommendations.
• Perform duties in variable environmental and physical conditions.
• Arrive for shift on time and ready to work.
• Must be available for emergencies and able to adjust work schedule to fulfill responsibilities.
• Other duties as assigned.
Other Duties & Responsibilities
Bachelor’s degree in related discipline preferred.
• 1 year of hands-on experience operating LSS and/or other mechanical systems required, with a demonstrated history of outstanding workmanship:
o Plumbing (PVC primarily)
o Maintenance of pumps, filters, valves, and ancillary equipment
o Experience with chemistry in aquatic animal systems
• Must possess Aquatic Animal Life Support Operator (AALSO) Level 1 Life Support Certification or can become certified within 1 year of employment.
• Experience with tools/power tools, machinery, and heavy equipment (forklift) operation.
• General knowledge of electrical systems and control applications.
• Able to interpret technical/mechanical drawings and schematics (P&ID’s, blueprints, diagrams).
• Demonstrated proficiency in MS Office applications a must; TRACKS experience preferred.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.
• Physically demanding ability to lift 75 lbs., maneuvering in confining and lofty locations, and within a variety of environmental conditions (rain, snow, heat).
• Situational awareness, good body conditioning, and excellent hand-eye coordination are required.
• Must be willing and flexible to work after hours, weekends, and holidays.
• Multilingual; Spanish speaking preferred.
• SCUBA certification or the ability to pass a swim test required.
