Life Support Systems Technician Living Collections Department
The Life Support Systems Technician is responsible for providing and maintaining the mechanical systems that support proper and healthy environments for the living collections. Additionally, the LSS Technician works closely with the Life Support Systems Manager and Water Laboratory Supervisor to ensure the highest quality of water and proper operation of the closed system exhibits within the Living Collections department.
Functions & Responsibilities
Other Duties & Responsibilities
Work closely with Life Support System Manager and Water Laboratory Manager to provide complete coordination of aquatic life support system functions.
Perform inspections, preventative maintenance, routine upkeep, cleaning, and repair of all life support equipment.
Perform water quality testing including the collection, analyzing, and recording of water samples using proven laboratory techniques for closed saltwater and freshwater aquatic systems.
Monitor levels of various components, including ozone, pH, temperature, salinity, carbon dioxide, phosphates, chlorine, bromine, magnesium, strontium, dissolved organics, calcium, iodine, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, copper sulfate, ORP, alkalinity, as well as, microbiological testing.
Effectively operate and interface with automated life support system control software.
Contribute to the design of life support systems for aquatic and terrestrial animals including temporary tanks, modifications of existing systems or future additions as necessary.
Maintain precise and accurate logs and records.
Understand and follow all safety policies and procedures with the ability to adhere/enforce OSHA and Cal OSHA standards and proper use of personal protective equipment in an aquarium and lab environment.
Work closely and communicate clearly with a diverse staff of employees and volunteers.
Required to carry radio/cell phone and respond as necessary while on duty.
Perform other duties as required.
Skills & Experience
Knowledge & Skills
BS/BA degree in related field with 1+ years experience or 3+ years combination of experience and training in similar role, preferably at an AZA-accredited aquarium or comparable institution.
Ability to work productively and accurately with a diverse staff/volunteers both independently and in team settings with strong communication and computer skills.
Experience operating, maintaining, and building life support systems for marine and freshwater systems.
Experience and knowledge of pumps, filters, fractionators, UV sterilizers, heat exchangers, ozone systems and automated control equipment.
Current SCUBA certification from an internationally recognized training association (preferred).
Basic knowledge of water chemistry sampling and analysis.
Prior laboratory experience in an academic or professional setting.
Strong technical writing skills, effective oral communication and problem solving skills are essential.
Demonstrated ability to work with various computer programs and software related to essential functions of position.
Must be able to work in an industrial work environment including confined spaces, areas with low headroom and difficult access, and with hazardous chemicals.
Knowledge of and ability to adhere/enforce OSHA and Cal OSHA standards and proper use of personal protective equipment in an aquarium and lab environment.
Must be able to work weekends (Saturday & Sunday), holidays, and have a flexible schedule. Responds to emergencies as necessary (days, nights, weekends Saturday & Sunday, and holidays).
Ability to lift, pull, shift, push 50 pounds and work outside in varying weather conditions.
Attention to detail and great overall workplace cleanliness is mandatory.
