Water Quality Technician
Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium //
Kansas City, MO //
Under direction, the Water Quality Technician performs routine work assignments involving water quality testing throughout the Zoo & Aquarium. This includes ensuring all systems are functioning properly and overseeing day-to-day operations to maintain proper water quality, clarity, and chemistry. Work areas will include the aquarium, polar bear pool, penguin building (2 penguin pools and multiple saltwater aquariums), sea lion pool, elephant pool, Stingray Bay, Missouri Department of Conservation aquarium, and otter exhibit.
Functions & Responsibilities
Essential Functions
- Performs routine work assignments related to water quality, including:
- Performing routine water quality testing for all areas of the Zoo & Aquarium.
- Managing the environmental quality lab, keeping the facilities and equipment clean and in good working condition.
- Performing equipment function checks and calibrations.
- Working closely with supervisor to ensure timely ordering of parts, equipment and supplies, such as salt, chemicals and testing kits.
- Reporting maintenance issues and potential safety hazards to management.
- Cross-functionally communicating with Animal Care teams to ensure water quality compliance.
Other Duties & Responsibilities
- Ensures all maintenance and recordkeeping related to water quality is completed, including:
- Inputting environmental quality data into the ZIMS record keeping software.
- Collaborating with the veterinary health department to ensure regulatory compliance.
- Following cleaning and preventive maintenance schedule for all water quality monitoring equipment, including pH/ORP probes, colorimeters, spectrophotometers, and chlorine analyzers.
Skills & Experience
Knowledge & Skills
- Knowledge of water chemistry, proper laboratory and quarantine techniques strongly preferred.
- Previous experience with and general knowledge of life support systems desired.
- Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office, required.
- Strong verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills.
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s Degree in biology, animal science, zoology or related field preferred.
- AALSO Level 1 Water Quality Technician certification preferred.
- SCUBA certification preferred.
Job Requirements
Salary & Benefits
Salary: Starting from $20/hr
