Aquatics Technician

State of North Carolina • Asheboro, NC

1d • $33,272 - $52,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The North Carolina Zoo is looking for a dynamic, team and detail-oriented individual to join the Aquatics Team. This team is responsible for monitoring the water quality of animal areas and maintaining existing life support equipment. This individual will work closely with most animal sections in order to maintain optimal aquatic life support systems.

Requirements

• High school or General Educational Development (GED) diploma and two (2) years of progressive experience in the assigned trade areas; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Must have a valid driver’s license issued from the United States or be able to obtain one within 90 days of employment.
• Employee must complete Entry Permit Confined Space training within 6 months of hire.
• Perform work in confined spaces such as filter pits, vaults, sumps, tanks, and mechanical rooms in accordance with safety protocols.
• Follow confined space entry procedures, including atmospheric testing, lockout/tagout, use of PPE, and coordination with safety attendants.
• 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 have strong interpersonal skills and be able to effectively communicate both orally and in writing with zoo staff and the public.

Nice To Haves

• Applicant must have the ability to troubleshoot complex water treatment and filtration systems.
• Experience with advanced water chemistry analysis techniques.
• Possess an understanding of aquarium water chillers, heat exchangers, UV and ozone systems, reverse osmosis, fractionators, plumbing applications, pumps, motors and filtration equipment.
• May require current certification by the Environmental Protection Agency as a Type I, II, III or Universal technician as required by Title 40, Code of Federal Regulations Part 82, Subpart F.

Responsibilities

• Monitor, test, and document all key water quality parameters to ensure optimal aquatic conditions.
• Operate, inspect, and maintain life support equipment including pumps, filtration systems, skimmers, UV/ozone units, and chillers.
• Perform routine system upkeep such as water changes, cleanings, and scheduled preventive maintenance.
• Troubleshoot equipment failures and respond promptly to water quality or system issues.
• Support system installations, upgrades, and modifications while collaborating closely with aquarists and animal care teams.
• Follow all safety, biosecurity, and environmental regulations while maintaining clean, safe workspaces and participating in emergency/on call rotations.

Benefits

• Sign-on bonus of $1000 is being offered for eligible candidates.
• Comprehensive benefits, including a variety of leave options, professional development opportunities, insurance, and more.
• Eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED