Life Support Systems Technician

The Life Support Systems Technician should have an interest in pursuing a career in Life Support Systems operations at a zoo or public aquarium. The Aquarium Life Support Systems Technician is responsible for the safe operation of Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium's freshwater and seawater operations. The Life Support Systems Technician is expected to perform high quality work in support of Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium's mission statement.

General Duties:

Duties will include, but are not limited to, daily operation and maintenance of ozone generators, compressors and associated peripheral equipment. Other duties include pump repair, high rate sand filter operation and maintenance, as well as daily operation of water distribution systems, water chemistry testing and repair and maintenance of mechanical systems as necessary. The Life Support Systems Technician will perform backwashing and/or water changes of Mote's larger exhibits.

The Life Support Systems Technician will participate in the design, installation and maintenance of closed and open seawater systems, seawater heater/chiller equipment, ozone systems, filtrations systems, pumps and associated equipment.

The Life Support Systems Technician will cooperate with staff, volunteers and contractors, but must also be able to work independently. Excellent problem solving skills are required.

The Life Support Systems Technician will help monitor and help maintain desired water quality parameters and ensure proper dosing of chemicals such as sodium bicarbonate, soda ash, chlorine, ozone and lanthanum chloride when necessary.

Participation in continuing education, including travel to out of town locations, may be required.

Any other duties in support of Aquarium activities as assigned by senior personnel. All employees must comply with the requirements as outlined in the MML Employee Policy Manual.

Working Hours:

Normal hours are 8.00 am to 5.00 pm Thursday to Monday with one unpaid hour for lunch and will include holiday shifts. These hours may be adjustable with the approval of senior personnel. Occasional longer daily hours may be required to complete specific tasks. The Life Support Systems Technician may be requested to be available after hours and weekends to support emergency situations., Supervision: This position will report to the Life Support Systems Manager

Education: Bachelor's degree in Marine Science or related field preferred, technical degree or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.

Work Experience: Minimum of 1 year in a Public Aquarium Life Support division or water treatment facility preferred. Previous internships or volunteerism will be considered. Knowledge of aquatic animal husbandry preferred.

Knowledge and skills:

Computer knowledge (Excel, Word, Google)

Excellent verbal communication skills

Capable of performing routine tasks accurately and efficiently

Capable of repair and maintenance of mechanical systems

Experience in aquatic animal care is preferred.

Ability to cooperatively work with staff, volunteers and contractors

Ability to make decisions and work independently

Ability to work with and tolerate PVC glues and primers

Ability to use basic hand and power tools

Physical:

Tolerance working with wet hands, feet and clothes every day

Ability to spend the majority of the workday walking, standing, bending and lifting

Strength to operate valves and open pump baskets

Tolerance to work around noisy machinery and equipment

Tolerance for the smell of fish and animal feces

Ability to work outside in all Florida weather conditions

Ability to safely lift and carry 60 lbs

Ability to lift 25lbs overheead

Ability to work in tight spaces

Capable of climbing and working from ladders