Life Support Technician (Full-Time)
ZooTampa at Lowry Park //
Tampa , Florida //
Apply by: September 28, 2025
Application Information: Please also visit www.ZooTampa.org/careers
This position is responsible for maintaining and performing maintenance on pumps and life support systems in the Zoo and at off-site structures. Other duties include special construction projects and assisting with facilities maintenance when needed.
Functions & Responsibilities
Essential Functions
- Daily maintenance and operation of over 25 aquatics systems parkwide ranging from the splash pad to our 250,000 gallon manatee habitat
- Participating in preventative maintenance routines on pumps, filters, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC components as they pertain to the aquatic life support systems.
- Making repairs and upgrades to pumps, plumbing, and electrical as they pertain to the aquatic life support systems
- Maintaining acceptable Water Quality parameters for a variety of species in collaboration with Animal Care Staff, Veterinary Staff, and AZA Standards.
- Maintaining the filtration systems and water quality parameters of the on-site splash pad, interactive fountains, and flume ride to meet Public Health Codes.
Other Duties & Responsibilities
- Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
- Motivated self-starter — Must be able to take initiative and work with minimal supervision.
- Strong organizational abilities.
- Effective communication skills — Ability to develop positive relationships with members of all departments.
- Ability to complete projects in a reasonable time frame to the complete satisfaction of supervisor
- Deal courteously and tactfully with employees, peers, superiors, and the general public.
- Read blueprints, mechanical drawings, and other diagrams.
- Must be flexible and have the ability to multi-task in a fast paced environment while maintaining a positive attitude with the public.
- Quality control — Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness and monitors own work to ensure quality.
- Capacity to anticipate — Ability to think ahead and plan.
- Capacity to change — Ability to identify and correct operational problems quickly.
- Must be able to think logically and solve problems with minimal guidance.
- Must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to communicate ideas and contribute effectively to the department.
- Report animal illness, maintenance, safety, horticulture, or other needs to appropriate staff.
- Assist in animal procedures including, but not limited to, translocations, veterinary procedures, and crating.
- Respond to emergency situations (e.g., Code I, II, III) within the Zoo.
- Observe safety policies and procedures in regards to the use of Zoo equipment, materials, chemicals, and vehicles.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Skills & Experience
Knowledge & Skills
- Demonstrated experience with pumps and water quality required.
- Certified Pool Operator certification required (or ability to obtain within 90 days of hiring)
- AALSO LSS Level 1 and 2 preferred but not required
- Four years of experience in progressively responsible general maintenance operations.
- High School diploma or equivalent preferred.
- A comparable amount of training and experience may be substituted for the minimum educational requirements.
- Considerable knowledge of pumps, water quality, and facility life support systems.
- Knowledge of occupational hazards and appropriate safety precautions.
- Knowledge of operations associated with buildings, mechanical maintenance, and pump repair.
- Knowledge of use, repair, and care of equipment pertinent to the performance of life support systems.
- Working knowledge of hand and power tools.
Education & Experience
- Four years of experience in progressively responsible general maintenance operations.
- High School diploma or equivalent preferred.
Job Requirements
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work in extreme weather conditions typical to west central Florida (i.e., heat, rain, or cold).
- Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.
- Must have ability to navigate paved as well as rough construction sites.
- Ability to use radio, telephone, and computer to communicate and follow written and verbal instructions.
- Must be willing and able to work varied and long shifts including holidays and weekends.
- Must be able to plan for, work, and staff specials events and exhibits as well as be available for unexpected shifts.
- Must be able to work in a variety of physical positions, including sitting, bending, standing, and walking
