Aquatic Systems Technician

State of North Carolina

8d • Onsite

About The Position

The North Carolina Zoo is looking for a dynamic, team and detail - oriented individual to lead the Aquatics Team. This team is responsible for monitoring the water quality of animal areas and maintaining existing life support equipment. The Aquatics Life Support Supervisor, under the supervision of the Zoological Manager, will be responsible for leading a dedicated team of technicians in daily activities that support optimal aquatic life support systems for most of the animal sections of the zoo.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or microbiology from an appropriately accredited institution.
• Associate’s degree in chemical technology, environmental science technology; or related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution and two (2) years of related experience in water chemistry and/or aquatic systems maintenance or related experience.
• Completion of at least two (2) years of college with at least 20 semester hours of chemistry coursework, and two (2) years of related experience in water chemistry and/or aquatic systems maintenance or related experience or an equivalent combination of training and directly related experience.
• Must have ability to obtain a diver certification from a nationally recognized organization or member of the Recreational SCUBA Training Council (PADI, SDI, SSI, YMCA etc.), NAUI etc.
• Must meet DNCR Fleet Safety Guidelines and have ability to obtain and maintain a valid driver's license issued from within the United States or be able to obtain one within 90 days of employment.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs., have good physical agility, strength, vision, and hearing, and the ability to perform strenuous physical work in extremes of weather and challenging physical environments.
• Must be able to hire, train, and supervise Aquatics Life Support Technicians in life support systems, problem solving, and critical thinking.
• Position is considered “Essential/Mandatory Staff” and required to work on adverse weather days and during Zoo emergencies.
• Required participation in the Zoo’s occupational health program.
• AALSO Level 1 certified or ability to become certified within 12 months of hire.
• Pool operator certified or ability to become certified within 6 months of hire.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated experience working in laboratory settings.
• Demonstrated experience as a Water Quality Technician including sample gathering and testing, quality control, data interpretation, data entry as well as aid in troubleshooting and correction of parameters.
• P AALSO Level 1 certified or willing to become certified within 12 months of hire
• Pool operator certified or willing to become certified within 6 months of hire
• Possess an understanding of aquarium water chillers, heat exchangers, UV and ozone systems, reverse osmosis, fractionators, plumbing applications, pumps, motors and filtration equipment.

Responsibilities

• Manages, directs, and coordinates daily activities of supervised Aquatics/LSS staff in monitoring and maintaining the life support systems in supervised facilities and maintaining animal spaces to exceed AZA and USDA standards of care.
• Develops a strong cohesive work unit that continually strives to improve aquatic life support systems, animal welfare, guest experience, and contributes to the overall understanding of the systems needed for the proper care of the exhibit animals.
• Maintains working knowledge of water chiller systems, filtration systems, ozone systems, and water chemistry.
• Schedules, supervises, mentors, develops, and provides leadership for Technicians in the progressive evolution of aquatic life support systems and the operation and upkeep of facilities.
• Identifies and prioritizes aquatic life support system issues and problems and leads work unit staff in root cause identification and problem solving.
• Serves as key communications link with the Zoo's Zoological Managers, Animal Curators, and Veterinary staff for information exchange and coordination.
• Is an active member of the Life Support Team, performing water quality tests and regular maintenance of systems.

Benefits

• Eligible state employees are entitled to comprehensive benefits, including a variety of leave options, professional development opportunities, insurance, and more.
• If you have student loans, becoming a state employee includes eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees