Life Support Systems Technician

Audubon Institute•New Orleans, LA

8h•Onsite

About The Position

Life Support System (LSS) Technician is an entry or intermediate level position with a heavy focus on the mechanical and chemical components of aquatic animal care in all areas of the aquarium. Reporting to the Curator of Life Support and Water Quality, the LSS Technician will be responsible for the daily operation, maintenance, and repair of the aquarium LSS and water quality (WQ). LSS Technician must be able to communicate effectively with members of the other Husbandry Department divisions, the veterinary staff, all other Audubon Nature Institute (ANI) departments, and the general public.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science degree in biology or related field from a recognized, accredited institution.
Minimum of one year of unpaid or paid experience in a zoological facility, public aquarium, or similar facility OR demonstrated and confirmed skill set.
Understanding of professional animal care and welfare standards.
A basic knowledge of water chemistry and the nitrogen cycle for water quality monitoring
Ability to communicate effectively and work with a team to provide consistency and advancement in animal care.
Ability to engage guests in pursuit of education and conservation goals. This includes chats, tours, media appearances, ambassador animal programs, etc.
Understanding/ experience with care of aquatic animals/ systems in a professional setting with demonstrated success.
Has understanding/ experience with the species under their care or has worked with similar taxa.
Has an understanding of natural history, anatomy, behavior, and environmental parameters.
Must have the ability to work weekends and holidays
Possess a valid driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

Aquatic Animal Life Support Operator (AALSO) Life Support and/or Laboratory certification is a plus.
National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF) Certified Pool Operator (CPO) is a plus.
Forklift driving certification considered an asset.
Experience at AZA accredited public facility is preferred
SCUBA certification is preferred
First Aid/ CPR is preferred
Basic plumbing, mechanical, and carpentry skills are considered an asset.

Responsibilities

Perform routine (daily, weekly, monthly) LSS and WQ analytical work with minimal supervision.
Perform any LSS related repairs and preventative maintenance.
Function as a resource for Husbandry staff in daily operations and requirements of life support and WQ.
Develop working knowledge of LSS and exhibit maintenance tasks and routines to identify and troubleshoot problems.
Develop working knowledge of water chemistry, water quality parameters, and water quality analyses to identify and troubleshoot problems.
Develop working knowledge of the ecosystems represented by the exhibit themes including basic knowledge of ideal environmental parameters.
Develop working knowledge of plumbing and construction as it pertains to the function of the exhibit life support systems.
Perform mathematical calculations varying from basic life support and water quality needs to advanced life support equipment and small-scale construction projects.
Identify and correct minor or routine life support system and exhibit maintenance issues and report larger problems.
Keep accurate and up to date records to ensure quality animal management and welfare at or above industry standards.
Maintain a positive attitude and a strong sense of accountability, fostering a collaborative team environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute.
Thrive in a team environment, using your organizational and technical skills to ensure the smooth execution of creative projects that resonate with our audience.
Celebrate the successes of your team and bring enthusiasm to your work, reflecting the joyful culture that is at the heart of Audubon’s mission.
Stay adaptable and open to learning new skills, embracing change and innovation as opportunities to lead and grow.