Temporary Aquatics Technician
Primary Purpose:
The North Carolina Zoo’s Animal Section provides world class animal care through progressive management strategies that integrate husbandry, behavior management, nutrition, health care, and habitat design for optimal individual and species-specific welfare.
The Animal Section maintains numerous aquatic or semi-aquatic species which rely on well-maintained Life Support Systems (LSS) to ensure appropriate water quality is maintained. Additionally, this team monitors water quality in a variety of systems throughout the park. Such information is communicated throughout the Animal and Veterinary sections to ensure optimal animal welfare.
The primary role of this position is to assist in water quality testing and the basic operation and maintenance of all Life Support Systems in the zoo, including Ozone generators, Ultraviolet, chlorination, and Sand Filter water purification systems for the Rocky Coast, Streamside, Black Bear, Grizzly, and Red Wolf buildings at the Zoo and all USDA regulations that apply. The secondary role of this position is to perform data entry and communication of appropriate results and assist other aquatics staff, as necessary.
Functions & Responsibilities
Essential Functions
Aquatics Technicians can expect the following responsibilities:
· Responsible for collecting and testing water samples from aquatic systems throughout the park, on a scheduled and as needed basis.
· Responsible for collecting and testing water samples from Reverse Osmosis systems, chlorinated/dechlorinated systems, potable/non-potable water, and other water sources, as necessary.
· Responsible for appropriately documenting and sharing water quality and LSS operations related data, as outlined in SOPs.
· Responsible for monitoring and operating all LSS and related systems throughout the park (including sand filters, ozone systems, chlorination systems, uv sterilizers, thermometers, pressure gauges, flow meters, and other related systems), under the direction/guidance of permanent aquatics staff.
· Participate in monitoring of the zoos lakes/ponds, including collecting water samples and delivering to off-site laboratory.
· Responsible for maintaining working knowledge of all relevant policies, procedures, and relevant Zoo information.
Skills & Experience
Knowledge & Skills
**To receive credit for your work history and credentials, you must list the information on the application form. Any information omitted from the application form, listed under the text resume section, or on an attachment will not be considered for qualifying credit.**
· Experience with maintenance/monitoring of sand filters, chlorination systems, ozone systems, and related equipment
· Experience collecting and testing water quality samples
· Knowledge of basic chemistry
· Basic computer skills including, but not limited to, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook (email and calendar).
Education & Experience
High school or General Educational Development (GED) diploma or a sufficient year-for-year combination of education and experience associated with a variety of mechanical or building trades; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Job Requirements
Physical Requirements
Must possess physical ability to work outdoors and in a variety of weather conditions.
Must be able to lift and move 50 lbs. without assistance. Must be able to walk, bend, stoop, work in confined spaces, have good visual sight, walk over uneven terrain, work in varying weather conditions and challenging physical environments.
