Life Support Systems Technician

Seattle Aquarium•Seattle, WA

86d•Onsite

About The Position

The Seattle Aquarium is seeking a Life Support Systems Technician to join the Engineering team within the Facilities and Operations department. This role is responsible for the operation, maintenance, design, repair, and optimization of aquatic life support systems to ensure efficient and sustainable functioning, aligning with the Aquarium’s standards for animal welfare and safety. The position supports the structural integrity of habitats, contributes to system improvements and capital projects, and is crucial for maintaining exhibit health through proper water quality and mechanical system performance. The role requires strong technical skills, the ability to work independently and collaboratively with Animal Care, Water Quality, and Facilities and Operations teams. LSS Technicians also participate in on-call overnight monitoring and emergency response for animal health-dependent systems, playing a vital role in supporting aquatic life and the Aquarium’s mission. All positions at the Aquarium support the SALISH Values (Sustainable, Awe-Inspiring, Learning and Improving, Inclusive Community, Scientific Integrity, Honoring Place) and are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The engineering team consists of 7 people, including a manager, supervisor, associate building engineer, and 4 life support systems staff. The specific level (LSS Tech I, II, or Senior) is determined by the candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience.

Requirements

Knowledge of industry animal welfare, safety, and other regulatory compliance standards (such as OSHA).
Ability to follow instructions and work effectively in a team environment.
Demonstrates an understanding of the Aquarium’s Mission and Values, including Regenerative and Equity work.
Commitment to sustainability and regenerative practices.
Excellent communication and collaboration abilities across departments. Consistently and proactively communicate, track, and organize work to keep self on track and others in the loop.
Ability to adapt to change and work effectively in evolving or uncertain environments.
Highly observant and comfortable performing repetitive manual tasks.
Must successfully complete provided training/certifications within the first 180 days of employment (and maintain thereafter): Scissor and Articulated Boom Lift Training, Forklift Training, Ladder Safety Training, Confined Space Training, Woodshop Safety Training, CPR Training, Respirator Fit Test Training.
Valid Washington State Driver’s License.
All Aquarium staff and volunteers are expected to participate in advancing and integrating into their work Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Regenerative practices in alignment with our S.A.L.I.S.H. Values.
LSS Tech II specific requirements: Combination of 3 years’ experience in engineering, marine biology, aquaculture, facilities operations or a related field. Preference for a minimum of 2 years of that experience in LSS operations in an aquarium, zoo, or aquatic research facility.
LSS Tech II specific requirements: General technical proficiency in water filtration, chemical treatment, and aquatic system operations, repair, and maintenance.
LSS Tech II specific requirements: General knowledge in the operation and maintenance of LSS control systems.
LSS Tech II specific requirements: Working knowledge of computerized maintenance management systems or other related maintenance recordkeeping.
LSS Tech II specific requirements: Working knowledge of how to safely use power and hand tools.
LSS Tech II specific requirements: Basic understanding of how to read and interpret blueprints, plans, and specifications.
Senior LSS Technician specific requirements: Combination of 4 years of experience in engineering, marine biology, aquaculture, facilities operations or a related field. Preference for a minimum of 3 years of that experience in LSS operations in an aquarium, zoo, or aquatic research facility.
Senior LSS Technician specific requirements: Strong technical expertise in water filtration, chemical treatment, and aquatic system mechanics. Example: demonstrated experience in designing or safely modifying LSS systems that require expertise in 4 out the 8 following specialties: controls and electronics, liquid and gas circulation, filtration, temperature control, disinfection, habitat construction, plumbing, and water quality.
Senior LSS Technician specific requirements: General knowledge of animal husbandry requirements in an Aquarium operation, including water quality needs.
Senior LSS Technician specific requirements: Experience with CMMS platforms and/or other similar preventive maintenance programs.
Senior LSS Technician specific requirements: General knowledge of building mechanical systems, their operations, and their interconnectedness with LSS systems.
Senior LSS Technician specific requirements: Ability to read and interpret blueprints, plans and specifications.