LSS Tech
The Life Support Systems (Tech) is responsible for general and preventative life support system maintenance needs for the Zoo, as well as other installation, repair, and plumbing projects as needed. This position also Additional duties may include understands and supports filtration and water quality testing parameters as it pertains in relation to life support systems. This position also strives to embody the Zoo’s values at all times, contributes to positive guest experiences, and performs other duties as required
Functions & Responsibilities
Essential Functions
Performs inspections of all life support equipment for preventative maintenance, routine upkeep, and repair of all facility life support system components.
· Helps to rebuild pumps, bearing motors, and impeller assembles.
· Participates in the design of new and modified life support systems.
· Performs plumbing installation and repair on life support systems.
· Performs necessary maintenance tasks for life support systems as needed.
· Completes general and preventative maintenance tasks as assigned.
· Helps coordinate or performs preventative maintenance work on all components of ozone systems, including ozone generators, ambient ozone analyzers and compressors, alarm systems, and pumps.
· Assists with updating documentation pertaining to life support systems including SOPs, checklists, and policies.
· Assists with filtration operation including back washing, media replacement, ozone adjustment, compressor servicing, and adjustments.
· Works with the Environmental Quality Technician to troubleshoot water quality issues.
· Records all changes, treatments, or repairs performed.
· Attends and contributes to regular cross department life support system update meetings
· Maintains thorough knowledge of essential equipment, software, and hardware used; adheres to Standard Operating Procedures.
· Ensures compliance to all state and federal regulations, Zoo policies, industry standards, and department procedures.
· Maintains the highest level of cleanliness in public and behind the scenes areas, including buildings, pathways, storage areas, and warehouses/garages.
· Performs basic office administrative duties such as filing, answering phone calls, and assisting the public.
· Supports the Zoo’s commitment to continued growth of diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and belonging for team members, volunteers, guests, and supporters.
· Assists with special projects and helps other team members as needed.
· Actively contributes to positive guest experiences.
Other Duties & Responsibilities
Other duties as needed.
Skills & Experience
Knowledge & Skills
Ability to manage the operations of all life support systems at the Zoo.
· Ability to operate heavy machinery/equipment such as forklift, skid steer, etc.
· Ability to perform standard and preventative maintenance on all life support equipment.
· Ability to understand water chemistry reports and their relationship to life support systems.
· Ability to perform water chemistries poolside and in a laboratory setting with appropriate accuracy and safety.
· Ability to prepare work plans using blue prints, sketches, schematics, and digital models.
· Understanding of plumbing mechanics and small motor repairs.
· Ability to read and communicate user manuals, plans, shop drawings, specifications, digital models, and written and verbal instructions.
· Ability to professionally and effectively communicate with others through written correspondence.
· Ability to troubleshoot, analyze situations, and make sound business decisions.
· Knowledge of Microsoft Office software and ability to learn new software systems.
· Ability to work a highly flexible schedule as required to successfully perform the requirements and functions of the position, including required weekend, evening, holiday, and irregular hours.
· Ability to handle confidential information.
· Ability to understand and follow all safety regulations.
· Ability to track and manage multiple tasks and priorities.
· Ability to arrive at work when scheduled and maintain a positive attendance record.
· Ability to serve as a goodwill ambassador, in every respect and at all times, for the Fort Wayne Zoological Society and the Fort Wayne Zoo in contacts with guests, partners, and the community.
· Ability to deal tactfully and politely with guest questions and misbehavior.
· Excellent communication skills to establish and maintain effective working relationships with team members, volunteers, partners, and the community.
Education & Experience
High school diploma or GED is required.
· Valid driver’s license is required.
· Aquatic Animal Life Support Operator (AALSO) Level 1, and/or Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO)certification is required within one year of hire. Certification must be maintained throughout employment.
· Three years of life support maintenance, electrical, and plumbing experience is preferred.
· Previous experience with ozone generation, safety, and handling is preferred.
· Previous experience with ZIMS preferred.
· Dive certification is preferred.
Job Requirements
Physical Requirements
Ability to safely wear and use safety equipment (i.e. respiratory equipment).
· Ability to properly operate equipment such as general maintenance tools (including but not limited to: drills, screw drivers, hammers, saws, levels, and wrenches), high reaches, fork lifts, skid steers (Bobcat), and other small engine equipment.
· Ability to work with chemicals including acids, chlorine, and ozone.
· Ability to operate office equipment, including computers, copiers, fax machines, and phones.
· Ability to professionally and appropriately interact and communicate with others, both in person and through phone, email, and written correspondence.
· Ability to regularly travel assigned areas several times per day and efficiently enter all assigned areas.
· Ability to negotiate a confined workspace while working with one or more coworkers.
· Ability to read reports, receipts, and other statements.
· Ability to properly lift and carry items up to 50 pounds.
· Ability to stand and sit for periods of time and to move intermittently throughout the workday.
· Ability to perform focused work with close attention to detail.
· Ability to work both indoors and outdoors, with exposure to extreme temperatures and inclement weather conditions; the environment may include wet, icy, or muddy conditions.
· This position may include exposure to hazardous materials, fumes/odors, dirt, and dust; potentially dangerous or venomous animals; zoonotic diseases; noxious native plants; and native biting insects and arthropods.
Working Conditions
We are classified as a USDA zone 6A environment. Primary working environment is indoors with multiple exhibits having indoor and outdoor. Several mechanical rooms for exhibits are in noisy environments. The zoo is quickly transitioning from half year open access to year round access.