Systems Operator 1 (Life Support)

Systems Operator 1 (Life Support)

Monterey Bay Aquarium //
Monterey, CA //
Posted on: November 12, 2021 //
Application Information: Currently hiring 4 positions

Under general supervision, responsible for the operation, quality control, troubleshooting, repairs, and basic maintenance relating to the Aquarium’s 25 million gallons per day seawater system, the associated mechanical plant, the building HVAC system, and the associated equipment and infrastructure in support of maintaining animal life support and environmental systems; monitor a computer-based control system for life support and HVAC systems and assist in operational engineering decisions based on analysis of the data; perform other duties as required.

Functions & Responsibilities

Essential Functions

Troubleshoot and repair critical water and facility systems, including but not limited to life support equipment, chillers, and boilers, filtration systems, valves, drains, heat exchangers, pumps, motors, fractionators, ozone systems, exotic treatment systems, UV sterilizers, HVAC system, an internal desalination plant, and seawater lines.
Analyze data provided by the controls system, meters, the laboratory, or other Animal Care staff, to troubleshoot water quality, flow, or other system problems or out-of-range parameters.
Implement engineering decisions on operation and/or repair of life support based on data provided by controls system or from Animal Care or other Operations staff.
Monitor real-time water quality and system trends provided by a computer-based controls system and respond to alarms or out-of-range trends
Provide routine maintenance on critical water and facility systems and equipment, including mechanical preventative maintenance, raw seawater line pigging, and chemical additions to the desalination plant.
Collaborate with Applied Water Science and other departments to recommend solutions for required changes to life support systems based on analyses of water quality data, system trends, animal observations, regulatory and water discharge requirements, and water flow needs.
Based on established equipment operating ranges, and meter and gauge readings, adjust or override automatic controls to optimize equipment parameters as needed.

Skills & Experience

Knowledge & Skills

Understanding of mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration as it applies to aquarium systems
Knowledge of automated controls, pneumatics, electro-mechanical and electro-optical devices
Strong troubleshooting skills on mechanical / electro-mechanical systems Ability and willingness to learn through on-the-job training
Experience in plumbing and electrical design, assembly, and maintenance
Experience working with HVAC systems
Familiarity with general industrial, electrical, and public building safety procedures
Familiarity with industrial equipment operation/maintenance and stationary engineering practices
Familiarity with OSHA safety guidelines
Familiarity with three-phase 480V electrical systems and components
Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) certification
Ability to prioritize work while multi-tasking, without immediate supervision
Ability to analyze data quickly and translate data into operational decisions
Ability to perform both as a team player and as a responsible individual when working alone
Ability to work with a safety-first mindset
Ability to work within, and maintain, Monterey Bay Aquarium’s policies and values

Education & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Aquarium Science, Engineering, or related field OR advanced certifications in facilities engineering or automated controls OR 2-3 years experience in water treatment plant operations, power plant operations, water systems operations, or aquariums

Job Requirements

Physical Requirements

Truck with liftgate, hoists, pulleys, lifts, building machinery, hand and shop tools
Walking up to several miles, climbing ladders, climbing machinery, accessing roofs, reaching, pushing, pulling
Occasional unassisted lifting up to 50 lbs.; chemical bags, motors, filter-sand bags, equipment

Working Conditions

Main aquarium, basement, mechanical rooms, service areas, outdoors, pumphouse, confined spaces, roof, boats

Salary & Benefits
Salary: Commensurate with experience (potential to hire at a higher level if experience for the right candidate exceeds the level 1 requirements)