Life Support Manager

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens•Jacksonville, FL

6d•Onsite

About The Position

This role directly oversees all aspects of the Life Support Systems (LSS) operations, including maintenance and repairs, with a focus on water quality and compliance with industry standards. Responsible for the comprehensive management of dynamic water systems, which includes pool areas, fountains, and various life support equipment such as pumps, filtration systems, valves, ozone generators, UV light systems, and HVAC systems. Ensuring the efficient operation of these systems and adherence to industry standards is a top priority.

Requirements

Demonstrates a strong work ethic characterized by dependability, timeliness, responsiveness, productivity, and organizational skills.
Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
Ability to troubleshoot complex water treatment and filtration systems in both freshwater and saltwater environments.
Ability to make sound decisions in critical situations and remain calm in unusual situations.
Ability to establish, organize and maintain systems to track security and safety functions and responsibilities.
Ability to coordinate event and function activities, including a written organizational plan, implementation of assets, coordination with other departments.
Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and skill in working in an environment subject to constant interruptions and quickly changing priorities.
Ability to foster a collaborative decision-making process that involves team members in key choices while addressing conflicts proactively to promote understanding and cohesion within the team.
Ability to employ strategies for conflict de-escalation.
Ability to work independently, exercising independent judgment and discretion.
Ability to determine potential risks while devising proactive ways to solve them.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
Excellent sales and customer service skills.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
Ability to maintain records.
Ability to research, analyze and interpret information.
Ability to build strong interpersonal relationships through respectful and empathetic communication.
Embraces diversity and fosters an inclusive work environment.
English
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, Gantt Charts, PaperSave and willingness to learn other applicable computer software programs to perform role.
Knowledge of occupational hazards and appropriate safety precautions.
Knowledge of zoonotic diseases and prevention.
Knowledge of ozone systems with both fresh and saltwater applications.
Knowledge of chlorine dosing/monitoring systems.
Knowledge of laboratory and field water quality equipment and procedures
Understanding of Nitrogen cycle and how it affects various animals and water parameters.
Proficient knowledge of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) protocols.
Proficient knowledge of safety and compliance to operate of a variety of power and hand tools, such as welding equipment, hammers, saws, drills, planers, mortising machines, and other trade specific tools.
Proficiency in regulations concerning marine animal housing, Life Support Systems (LSS), and Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) for accreditation standards.
Extensive knowledge of water quality systems, water chemistry analysis techniques, pool equipment as well as regulatory and membership agencies and regulations (USDA, USFWS, AZA, AALSO).
Proficient in understanding automated controls and monitoring equipment, water chemistry principles, and related maintenance and repair tasks.
Proficient knowledge applicable to area in adhering to industry, regulatory, and federal agency standards, with specific emphasis on the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), HAZMAT, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation (FWC), and others at times.
Demonstrated experience in managing life support and water systems.
Proficient knowledge of state, insurance, and safety regulations pertaining to building codes, hazardous waste disposal, OSHA standards, and hazardous materials handling.
Knowledge of systems to assist in troubleshooting, giving technical advice, and direction towards solving issues.
Mechanical knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance to safely operate tools, vehicles, and equipment.
High School diploma or equivalent.
1-2 years of experience in Team Management in a trade, construction, and/or maintenance field.
Three (3) years’ experience in water filtration and/or experience in a facility or laboratory water quality setting.
Three (3) years’ experience in advanced water chemistry analysis techniques and mechanical filtration systems.
Three (3) years of project management or in a similar role.
Three (3) years of experience in facilities maintenance/general construction processes.
Must have a valid driver’s license and clear driving record and be over age 18 to drive organizational vehicles.

Nice To Haves

OSHA 30 certification
HAZMAT certification.
Pool Operator certification.
Certification of Water Quality Level 3 with Aquatic Life Support Systems (AALSO).
Two (2) years of with Life Support Systems (LSS), large scale aquariums, HVAC, general maintenance, or related field experience.
Experience in zoo/aquarium exhibits or animal facilities.

Responsibilities

Provide guidance to the team and foster a culture of collaboration, inclusion and accountability.
Communicating relevant information, updates, and progress reports to their teams up, across and below, ensuring transparency and alignment.
Setting clear expectations for the department and their direct reports. Consistently communicating with team to provide feedback and review goals. Evaluating the performance of their departments against established metrics and targets and implementing strategies for continuous improvement.
Ensure budget and headcount adherence.
Manage schedules, time-off, approve timecards, and other employee related administrative tasks.
Direct and oversee all aspects of water system projects as it relates to safety, quality, cost control, project schedule, contract administration and employee & contractor relations.
Direct, plan, and manage utilization of project resources to maximize efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Acts as a liaison with stakeholders for projects and/or bids, related to water quality, overseeing the selection, scheduling, and coordination of vendors and outside service providers for specialized repairs or maintenance projects.
Write and test emergency procedures for Life Support Systems (LSS), and maintain, prepare, and submit reports and records; ZIMS, and Asset Essentials.
Oversees the operations of life support systems, ensuring proper maintenance of equipment such as pumps, chillers, ozone systems, filters, and piping through regular visual inspections and maintenance.
Analyzes water chemistry reports, interprets the findings, and provides recommendations for necessary corrective actions.
Manages record-keeping and documentation, which includes compiling data and preparing statistical and narrative reports, presentations, and articles.
Develops a team to assist in the maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of machinery, as well as electrical and mechanical systems.
Ensures strict adherence to established safety procedures and regulations.
Prioritize human and animal safety through organizational policies.
Performs regular inspections on equipment, ensuring proper working conditions, performing necessary servicing, and promptly addressing damaged items by returning them for repair or replacement.
Responsible for leading disaster prep, disaster preparedness and response initiatives as assigned.
Conducts tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Compliance with state, insurance, and safety regulations, including building codes, hazardous waste disposal, OSHA standards, and handling of hazardous materials.
Maintains up-to-date records available for review by inspectors and/or upon request.