The Life Support System Technician should have an interest in pursuing a career in Life Support Systems operations at a zoo or public aquarium. The Aquarium Life Support Systems Technician is responsible for the safe operation of Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium’s freshwater and seawater operations.
General Duties:
Duties will include, but are not limited to, daily operation and maintenance of ozone generators, compressors and associated peripheral equipment. Other duties include pump repair, high rate sand filter operation and maintenance, as well as daily operation of water distribution systems, water chemistry testing and repair and maintenance of mechanical systems as necessary. The Life Support Systems Technician will perform backwashing and/or water changes of Mote’s larger exhibits.
The Life Support Systems Technician will participate in the design, installation and maintenance of closed and open seawater systems, seawater heater/chiller equipment, ozone systems, filtrations systems, pumps and associated equipment.
The Life Support Systems Technician will cooperate with staff, volunteers and contractors, but must also be able to work independently. Excellent problem-solving skills are required.
The Life Support Systems Technician will help monitor and help maintain desired water quality parameters and ensure proper dosing of chemicals such as sodium bicarbonate, soda ash, chlorine, ozone and lanthanum chloride when necessary.
Participation in continuing education, including travel to out-of-town locations, may be required.
Working Hours:
Normal hours are 8.00 am to 5.00 pm Thursday to Monday with one unpaid hour for lunch and will include holiday shifts. Occasional longer daily hours may be required to complete specific tasks. The Life Support Systems Technician may be requested to be available after hours and weekends to support emergency situations.
Minimum Requirements:
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Marine Science or related field preferred, technical degree or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.
Work Experience: Minimum of 1 year in a Public Aquarium Life Support division or water treatment facility preferred. Previous internships or volunteerism will be considered. Knowledge of aquatic animal husbandry preferred.
Knowledge and skills
- Computer knowledge (Excel, Word, Google)
- Excellent verbal communication skills
- Capable of performing routine tasks accurately and efficiently
- Capable of repair and maintenance of mechanical systems
- Experience in aquatic animal care is preferred.
- Ability to cooperatively work with staff, volunteers and contractors
- Ability to make decisions and work independently
- Ability to work with and tolerate PVC glues and primers
- Ability to use basic hand and power tools
Physical:
- Tolerance working with wet hands, feet and clothes every day
- Ability to spend the majority of the workday walking, standing, bending and lifting
- Strength to operate valves and open pump baskets
- Tolerance to work around noisy machinery and equipment
- Tolerance for the smell of fish and animal feces
- Ability to work outside in all Florida weather conditions
- bility to safely lift and carry 60 lbs occasionally
- Ability to lift 25 lbs overhead occasionally
- Ability to work in tight spaces
- Capable of climbing and working from ladders
