First Shift O&M Supervisor

Shedd Aquarium•Chicago, IL

16d•$35•Onsite

About The Position

The O&M Supervisor is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day repair, maintenance, and installation of the building's mechanical, HVAC, electrical, and plumbing equipment that supports both the operation and maintenance of the Facilities team. All conditions affecting building services, life safety of the guest, and aquatic Life. The O&M Supervisor will coordinate the daily work schedule of the team with the Directors of Operations and Maintenance for scheduling tasks that occur across the three shifts. The O&M Supervisor is responsible for overseeing both the operation and maintenance of the Aquarium’s Life Support Systems and Base Building systems, including Security Components. This position ensures safe, efficient, and reliable facility performance while supporting animal health, guest safety, and overall operational excellence. The O&M Supervisor manages daily work schedules for both maintenance and operations staff, coordinates preventive and corrective repairs, oversees building automation and energy usage, and ensures compliance with environmental and safety standards.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or Physical Engineering license in Civil, Environmental or Mechanical Engineering preferred. Candidates with HVAC, Water Distribution or Water Treatment Certifications are considered.
5+ years of experience in aquarium, zoo, or equivalent facility/plant engineering and filtration systems.
Strong knowledge of hydraulics, mechanical/electrical systems, HVAC, fluid handling/pumping, and life support operations.
Experience with building automation systems and energy/resource management.
Ability to effectively collaborate with staff at all levels and external partners.
Strong written and oral communication skills.
Proficiency in AutoCAD, Microsoft 365, BAS (Building Automation Systems), and Preventive Maintenance Software.
Ability to interpret complex technical instructions and prepare clear reports and correspondence.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
Sit, stand, stoop, and walk as required.

Responsibilities

Supervise and coordinate daily work schedules for both the Operations and Maintenance Teams, ensuring safe and efficient monitoring, operation, repair, and installation of all Life Support and Base Building equipment.
Manage preventive maintenance programs and service desk requests, ensuring work is completed with minimal disruption and proper follow-up.
Analyze energy and water usage data from utility systems and internal sub-meters; recommend and implement operational improvements to maximize efficiency while maintaining high standards of animal care and guest experience.
Provide oversight of building automation systems, ensuring optimal performance; recommend and obtain estimates for upgrades to improve efficiency and sustainability.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all repairs, preventive maintenance, and operational logs.
Coordinate facility projects, repairs, and construction with internal teams, external contractors, and other departments, ensuring minimal disruption to operations.
Support environmental quality monitoring and ensure parameters remain within designated levels for aquatic life and guest comfort.
Ensure proper staffing and coverage for 24/7 operations.
Oversee inventory of tools, equipment, and supplies; prepare purchase requests and monitor stock levels.
Recommend facility repairs, improvements, and capital projects for inclusion in the annual budget.
Participate in facility remodels, exhibit construction, and other long-term planning initiatives.
Cultivate and maintain a positive working environment with effective communication across staff, leadership, and volunteers.
Respond to emergencies and immediately recognize and address system shortcomings or failures.