Life Support Systems (LSS) Technician

Audubon Institute•New Orleans, LA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Life Support Systems (LSS) Technician is an entry-level to intermediate position focused on operating, maintaining, and continuously improving the Sea Lion exhibit life support systems and water quality programs. Reporting to the Curator of Carnivores and Hoofstock, the technician monitors, maintains, analyzes, repairs, and troubleshoots aquatic life support and water quality systems. The Sea Lion complex is the primary area of responsibility, with additional support for life support systems, water quality initiatives, exhibit projects, and infrastructure throughout Audubon Zoo as assigned. The LSS Technician serves as a technical resource for animal care staff and develops expertise in water quality management, life support systems, plumbing, mechanical systems, and exhibit infrastructure. The role collaborates with animal management, veterinary, facilities, construction, and conservation teams to support animal welfare, exhibit functionality, regulatory compliance, and guest experience.

Requirements

A Bachelor of Science degree in biology, zoology, environmental science, chemistry, engineering, or a related field from an accredited institution; equivalent experience may be considered.
At least one year of paid or unpaid experience in a zoological facility, public aquarium, aquaculture or mariculture facility, environmental laboratory, water treatment facility, animal care setting, maintenance environment, or related industry; alternatively, demonstrated and verifiable technical skills.
Understanding of professional animal care and welfare standards.
Basic knowledge of water chemistry, water quality parameters, and the nitrogen cycle.
Ability to learn and troubleshoot mechanical, plumbing, and filtration systems.
Ability to perform mathematical calculations related to water quality, chemical dosing, and system operations.
Ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team.
Ability to engage guests in support of education, conservation, and animal welfare goals.
Ability to work weekends, holidays, evenings, and emergency call-ins as needed.
Valid driver's license.
Candidates with six or more years of directly related professional experience in zoological life support systems, aquatic animal systems, water treatment, aquaculture, or a comparable field may be considered for Senior Life Support Systems Technician placement based on qualifications and demonstrated expertise.

Nice To Haves

Aquatic Animal Life Support Operator (AALSO) Life Support and/or Water Quality certification.
National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF) Certified Pool Operator (CPO) certification.
Forklift driving certification.
Experience at an AZA-accredited public facility.
SCUBA certification.
First Aid/CPR certification.
Previous firearms experience and willingness to serve on the Zoo Weapons Team.
Experience handling sea lions for husbandry procedures, as needed.
Basic plumbing, electrical, mechanical, welding, carpentry, or construction experience.
Experience collecting, interpreting, and trending water quality data.

Responsibilities

Perform routine daily, weekly, and monthly water quality testing.
Monitor Sea Lion exhibit life support systems to ensure operational performance and compliance with established standards.
Perform preventive maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting of pumps, filtration systems, piping, chemical treatment systems, monitoring equipment, and related infrastructure.
Assist with maintenance and operational support for additional life support systems and aquatic exhibits throughout Audubon Zoo.
Develop working knowledge of marine mammal water quality requirements, filtration technologies, and exhibit maintenance practices.
Develop working knowledge of zoological life support systems, plumbing, electrical components, construction methods, and exhibit infrastructure.
Maintain accurate records of water quality results, maintenance activities, repairs, and operational performance.
Serve as a resource for animal care staff regarding daily life support and water quality operations.
Assist with implementation and revision of standard operating procedures for life support and water quality programs.
Participate in exhibit improvement projects and support new exhibit construction, renovation, and expansion efforts.
Identify deficiencies in life support systems and recommend corrective actions.
Serve as a liaison between Animal Management, Facilities, Construction, and outside contractors when needed.
Assist veterinary and animal care staff in responding to water quality or environmental issues affecting animal health and welfare.
Participate in emergency response procedures involving life support systems, animal emergencies, severe weather events, and facility operations.
Develop basic knowledge of USDA, AZA, OSHA, and other applicable regulations governing animal care, water quality, and workplace safety.
Participate in training related to life support systems, water quality, aquatic animal care, and facility operations.
Support zoo-wide operational needs and special projects as assigned.
Maintain a positive attitude and accountability while fostering a collaborative team environment.
Communicate and collaborate effectively with staff across multiple departments.
Demonstrate organizational, problem-solving, and technical skills; remain adaptable and open to learning new skills and technologies.