LSS Technician – 2nd Shift
Demonstrate excellent representation of the aquarium at all times through a positive and motivated, can-do attitude and teamwork-focused work ethic.
The Life Support System Systems (LSS) Technician will assist with the daily operation, monitoring, maintenance and repair of primary and ancillary aquatic life support system equipment while ensuring that the highest standard of care is upheld for Mystic Aquarium’s animal collection. This position will assist the LSS Team in monitoring, preserving, and modifying existing water treatment processes, installing new equipment and process components, acquiring critical equipment, and repairing components, supplies, and consumables. The LSS technician will perform miscellaneous tasks as necessary to ensure that all departmental operations succeed. The ideal candidate will be an energetic individual who is bright, motivated, and willing to learn new skills, someone who is able to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team, with strong problem-solving and communication skills and ability to negotiate unusual situations.
Functions & Responsibilities
Essential Functions
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty suitably. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. This individual must be willing to consistently provide guests as well as interdepartmental service above and beyond 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 other 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.
- Keep equipment and associated areas clean and well maintained.
- Move and distribute controlled materials and chemicals and adhere to SDS and PPE protocols and safety recommendations.
- Perform duties in variable New England weather conditions along with various physical and environmental conditions.
- Must be available for emergencies and able to adjust work schedule to fulfill responsibilities.
Other Duties & Responsibilities
Safety/Security
All employees are responsible for working safely at all times.
- Every employee must properly use and keep in good order, all personal protective equipment (PPE) supplied to them as protection from recognized hazards.
- Every employee must report any unsafe condition
- Every employee must have a working knowledge of all Facility wide, and Department-specific, safety procedures that relate to their position, including, but not limited to: Emergency Evacuation, Lockdown Procedure, and Fire Extinguisher use.
- Perform all other duties as assigned by the supervisor
Skills & Experience
Education & Experience
Two years of hands-on experience operating LSS and/or other mechanical systems is preferred. Aquatic Animal Life Support Operator (AALSO) Level I Certification or the ability to become certified preferred. Must have strong PVC plumbing skill and outstanding workmanship practices. Must have enthusiasm and the ability to learn to operate and repair LSS equipment and other mechanical and biological processes. Knowledge and hands-on experience with pumps, filtration, and associated equipment is required. Experience with the safe operation of power tools, machinery, hand tools, and fabrication with various materials is required. General knowledge of electrical systems and control applications with an ability to read schematic diagrams, blueprints, P&ID’s and other technical drawings and references is required. Proficiency with MS Office is required. Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license. Must be able to lift 75 lbs. and climb and work around piping and other obstacles. Must be able to work in a variety of environmental conditions including rain, snow/ice, cold, and hot weather. Situational-awareness, good physical conditioning, and good overall coordination will be an asset for this position. Multilingual person desired; Spanish-speaking preferred. SCUBA certification or the ability to pass a swim test is required. Experience with water chemistry, aquatic animals, and aquarium systems is preferred. Education and training will be available for the right candidate in this position. Must be willing and flexible to work after hours, weekends, and holidays.
