Life Support Operator
Job responsibilities include routine operation of life support systems, minor and routine maintenance on life support systems and exhibit enhancement systems. Responsibility includes departmental project work and assisting other departments with projects.
Functions & Responsibilities
Essential Functions
- Adjust water quality conditions according to Life Support Manager instruction.
- Perform filter backwashes on exhibit systems as required.
- Perform water discharge and refilling when required.
- Perform water movement, chemical treatments and tests to produce and maintain exhibit water.
- Perform water reclamation on systems after backwash.
- Perform minor maintenance and repairs on life support equipment.
- Monitor and adjust life support equipment.
- Oversee repairs and construction of new or existing exhibits.
- Provide maintenance assistance as required
- Provide technical information as required.
- Monitor and control exhibit conditions after hours as scheduled (evening and graveyard).
Other Duties & Responsibilities
- Perform routine maintenance on life support equipment and on exhibit enhancement systems.
- Perform minor maintenance and repairs on life support equipment and on exhibit enhancement systems.
- Assist with major maintenance on equipment as required.
- Assist Biologists with technical information and assistance on special projects; i.e. plumbing, light construction and minor exhibit fabrication.
- Conduct tours of life support equipment areas as required.
- Provide technical information as required.
- Monitor and report to LSS Manager, Biologist Lead, Curators and Animal Husbandry Manager on exhibit backwash schedules, status of water systems, and status of water quality.
- Report ideas of possible improvements and exhibit life support equipment enhancements.
- Monitor and report to LSS Manager, Biologist Lead, Curators and General Curator on problems with life support systems, exhibit enhancement systems and other equipment in animal support and life support areas.
- Coordinate routine, minor and preventative maintenance activities with Maintenance department.
- Inform maintenance department if major repairs are required on life support, exhibit enhancement and other equipment.
Skills & Experience
Education & Experience
Must have High School diploma or equivalent. Must be organized and self-motivated with a desire to see projects through to completion. Must have basic working knowledge of pumps and motors. Must have basic mechanical, carpentry, electrical, and plumbing skills. Must have basic computer skills. Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation and provide proof of insurance.
Job Requirements
Working Conditions
Work in water with temperatures ranging upwards of 45F. Heavy lifting (greater than 50 pounds on occasion), walking and working within a wet environment. Outdoor work on occasion, under a variety of conditions: cold weather, hot weather, rain, mud, ocean environments and dry land. Occasional confined space entry required. On call 24 hours a day. The LSS operator position requires continuous coverage 24 hours, 7 days a week. This requires the individual to be available for a variety of shifts and be flexible for shift changes when and if required. Must be flexible during holiday and vacation periods to fill required schedule. Must be available for overtime, both non-emergency and emergency situations, and be available 24 hours a day.
