Life Support Systems Technician

Position Title: Life Support Systems Technician

Department: Husbandry

Reports To: Curator of Life Support and Water Quality

Location: Audubon Aquarium & Audubon Insectarium

Position Type: Full-Time

Who We Are 

Audubon Nature Institute comprises Audubon Park, Audubon Zoo, Audubon Aquarium, Audubon Insectarium, Audubon Louisiana Nature Center, Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center, Audubon Center for Research of Endangered Species, Woldenberg Riverfront Park, and Audubon Wilderness Park

At Audubon Nature Institute, we are more than a collection of parks, museums, and conservation centers—we are a dedicated team with a shared mission to celebrate, protect, and connect people to the wonders of nature. Our work is guided by our culture code, which is at the heart of everything we do. We believe in Activating Impact by integrating tangible, real-world outcomes into all our initiatives, fostering a culture where every action contributes to a positive environmental impact. We are committed to Empowering Optimism, using positivity to inspire others to act and believe in their capacity to create meaningful change. We strive to Create Connection by engaging with people from all walks of life, knowing that the collective strength of a diverse community can address the most pressing challenges facing our natural world. At Audubon, we embody the spirit of Le Bon Temps, infusing the joy and vibrant culture of Louisiana into our everyday work, celebrating our unique heritage while advancing our mission. As Leaders of the Pack, we constantly seek smarter, innovative solutions, challenging conventions to drive the change we want to see in the world.

What You’ll Do

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.

Day to Day 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.

Additional/Overall Skills:

•    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.

•    The above listed duties are general statements of required major duties and responsibilities performed on a regular and continuous basis. They do not exclude other duties as assigned.

What We’re Looking For

Must Haves:

•    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.

Physical Requirements: 

•    Continuous standing, walking, lifting, bending, and twisting. 

•    Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry objects weighing over 50 pounds, often repeatedly. 

•    Regularly climbing ladders and operating heavy machinery. 

•    Sustained manual dexterity and coordination. 

•    Physical stamina for long shifts involving repetitive or strenuous tasks. 

•    Primarily outdoor environments or industrial settings. 

•    Frequent exposure to heat, cold, dust, fumes, or loud noises. 

•    Exposure to potential hazards such as heavy machinery, moving vehicles, or electrical equipment.