Systems Operator I
Job Summary:
Under general supervision, responsible for operation, quality control, troubleshooting, repairs, and basic maintenance relating to the Aquarium’s 25 million gallon 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
Core Activities:
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 assess water quality, flow, gas saturation, and other system problems or out-of-range parameters.
Implement engineering decisions on operation and/or repair of life support based on data analysis of 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 responds to alarms or out-of-range trends.
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, in collaboration with Applied Water Science, Husbandry, and other departments.
Perform routine maintenance on critical water and mechanical systems and equipment, including mechanical preventative maintenance, raw seawater line pigging, and chemical additions to the desalination plant.
Adjust or override automatic controls to optimize equipment parameters as needed, based on established equipment operating ranges, and meter and gauge readings.
Skills & Experience
Knowledge & Skills
Preferred Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs):
Bachelor’s degree in Aquarium Science, Engineering, or related field OR advanced certifications in facilities engineering or automated controls OR equivalent combination of education, training and experience in water treatment plant operations, power plant operations, water systems operations, or aquariums
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
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
Must possess the ability to obtain a valid California driver’s license and maintain clearance in the DMV Pull Program
Job Requirements
Physical Requirements
Physical Requirements to Perform Essential Job Functions:
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
Main aquarium, basement, mechanical rooms, service areas, outdoors, pumphouse, confined spaces, roof, boats
Salary & Benefits
$28.27-$34.62 USD per hour. Starting rate will vary based on previous experience and relevant skills/knowledge set.
