Life Support Systems Operator (Aquatics, Mechanic, Water Systems)

Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens • Jacksonville, FL

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens seeks a Full-Time Life Support Operator to maintain, optimize, and troubleshoot the aquaculture systems that support our aquatic and semi-aquatic species. The Zoo’s REZOOVENATION : The Campaign to Inspire. The campaign that expands animal care, wellness facilities, and enhances guest experiences. This position will directly support these initiatives while maintaining all aquatic systems throughout the Zoo , ensuring optimal water quality and animal well-being. As a subject matter expert , you will operate, repair, and maintain both manual and automated life support systems , including recirculating aquaculture systems, ozone generators, backwash systems, pumps, filtration systems, valves, UV sterilizers, HVAC systems, and integrated water quality monitoring systems. You will work in freshwater and saltwater habitats , including the 330,000-gallon Manatee River aquarium within the Manatee Critical Care Center expansion. You may perform aquatic husbandry duties to ensure optimal water quality, including monitoring parameters, managing fecal matter, and minimizing interactions with species to maintain a healthy environment. Each day involves collaboration across teams, precise water testing, technical problem-solving, and adjustments to optimize living conditions for aquatic life. Apply your technical expertise to sustain life support systems that protect aquatic life, inspire conservation, and create memorable experiences for our guests. Help us achieve our mission of "Connecting communities with wildlife and wild places."

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Two (2) years of experience in a similar role with water systems or a related field, including operating recirculating aquaculture systems, backwash systems, integrated electronic water quality monitoring systems, large-scale aquariums, HVAC systems, and general equipment maintenance.
• Six (6) months of experience as an individual contributor in water systems or related fields, performing operational, maintenance, or underwater tasks.
• Familiarity with housing marine mammals , including life support system requirements and testing/monitoring parameters to comply with the Animal Welfare Act (AWA).
• Mechanical aptitude and demonstrated ability to operate, inspect, and maintain manual and automated life support systems , filtration processes, and water quality equipment.
• Knowledge of water chemistry , treatment processes, and aquatic system health , including chlorine dosing, ozone/UV systems, and nitrogen cycle management.
• Ability to safely perform underwater tasks in accordance with established diving safety protocols and communicate effectively with surface support staff.
• Understanding of safety protocols, standard operating procedures, and regulatory compliance in aquatic facilities, including animal safety and personal protective equipment use.
• Ability to collect and record water quality data , interpret results, and make adjustments to maintain optimal aquatic environments.
• Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills , including coordination with staff across multiple departments.
• Willingness to work flexible hours , including weekends, holidays, and on-call shifts, as needed.
• Ability to adapt to a fast-paced and dynamic environment , maintaining attention to detail and high standards of animal care.
• Willingness to complete all required pre-employment screenings , including background check, drug screen, physical examination, and employment verification, in accordance with organizational hiring standards.
• Required certifications to obtain within one (1) year of hire: Life Support Level 1 or Water Quality Level 1 certification from Aquatic Animal Life Support Operators (AALSO).
• Pool Operator certification.
• Open Water Diver certification.

Nice To Haves

• AALSO certification or equivalent experience.
• Experience performing underwater inspection, cleaning, and maintenance of aquatic exhibits or tanks.
• Experience with life support or water systems in a zoo, aquarium, or aquaculture facility .

Responsibilities

• Operate, monitor, and maintain recirculating aquaculture systems, backwash systems, ozone generators, UV sterilizers, HVAC systems, pumps, valves, and filtration systems.
• Conduct water quality testing, data logging, and make adjustments to maintain optimal aquatic environments.
• Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain complex life support and water quality systems in both freshwater and saltwater habitats.
• Perform aquatic husbandry tasks as needed to maintain water quality, while minimizing species interactions.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, AZA, USDA, USFWS, and AALSO standards.
• Collaborate with Animal Care, Facilities, and Conservation teams to support species wellness and operational efficiency.
• Participate in dive operations for cleaning, inspection, and maintenance of exhibit infrastructure as required.
• Maintain accurate records of system performance, maintenance activities, and water quality monitoring.

What This Job Offers

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