Life Support Systems Operator- 1st shift

Indianapolis ZooIndianapolis, IN
Onsite

About The Position

The Life Support Systems Operator ensures the proper functioning of the pumps, filters, piping, valves, and all the environmental systems within the Zoo. This role is crucial for maintaining the marine mammal living environments, including aquariums, shark touch tanks, dolphin pools, and ponds for elephants, alligators, and crocodiles. The position is full-time, 40 hours per week, first shift, with occasional flexibility required for different shifts, weekends, and holidays. The Indianapolis Zoo is committed to advancing its mission to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world.

Requirements

  • High school diploma/GED.
  • At least 18 years old.
  • Valid Indiana driver's license with a record insurable by the Zoo's insurance.
  • 6 months of paid/unpaid aquatic animal experience in an aquarium/zoo/museum/nature center/aquatic pet store setting.
  • Must possess (or acquire within 12 months of date of hire) and maintain SCUBA, CPR/AED, and O2 certifications.
  • Must be able to perform very heavy work exerting at least 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or in excess of 20 pounds constantly to transport objects.
  • Ability to transport and move items, exerting at least 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 50 pounds of force frequently.
  • Must have the ability to ascend/ descend ladders, steps, and uneven terrain, while maintaining body equilibrium to perform various jobs.
  • Must be able to safely operate department tools.

Nice To Haves

  • Mechanical aptitude, working familiarity with equipment including filtration systems, plumbing, electrical, pneumatic, and digital controls.
  • HVAC background is highly desirable.
  • Familiarity with Honeywell systems or other Building Management Systems is a plus!
  • 1 year of paid LSS experience in an AZA accredited facility.
  • AALSO Level I or higher certification's in LSS and/or WQ.
  • Prior experience in Aquatic Life Support maintenance in a zoo, aquarium, water park, or equivalent facility highly desired.

Responsibilities

  • Monitors, repairs, and maintains marine mammal living environments, including aquariums, shark touch tank and dolphin pools, as well as the elephant, alligator, and crocodile ponds.
  • Ensures the proper functioning of pumps, filters, piping, valves, and all environmental systems within the Zoo.
  • Documents all work activities of their assigned shift and maintain daily logs associated with all equipment and systems along with time accordingly.
  • Assists as directed to maintain inventory and prepare purchase orders for supplies such as repair/replacement parts, hardware and some chemicals working with vendors for competitive pricing.
  • Assists in the planning and the execution of related projects which may include installation of new equipment, replacements, upgrades, or refurbishment of existing equipment.
  • Understands and interprets water quality reports.
  • Makes recommendations for water chemistry adjustments as needed.
  • Adheres to all safety policies and wears proper safety equipment (PPE) including dust masks, respirators, goggles, hearing protectors, and safety harness.
  • Works around equipment that has a significant noise level.
  • Safely operates a forklift to move materials and equipment. Obtains/maintains certification.
  • Must be proficient or has the ability to learn to use a wide variety of hand and power tools, vehicles, small engines, and the capability to safely operate some heavy equipment such as forklift, scissor lift, etc.
  • Must have the ability to detect, assess, identify, and observe surroundings to make sound judgments, along with the ability to communicate verbally, comprehend and decipher information accurately, using a telephone and two-way radio.
  • Has the availability to be on call for large scale emergencies; may be required to carry a pager on rotational schedule.

Benefits

  • Full-time, 40 hours per week
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