What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Life Support System Keeper position at Z&A Management?
Job Summary:
The Senior Life Support Systems Technician will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations and maintenance of life support systems (LSS) that ensure the health and well-being of aquatic and terrestrial animals under the facility's care. This role requires a combination of expertise in animal husbandry, life support system technology, and team leadership. The successful candidate will ensure that all LSS equipment is functioning optimally, manage a team of animal keepers, and work closely with other departments to maintain a safe and enriching environment for the animals.
Key Responsibilities:
Life Support System Management:
- Oversee the operation, maintenance, and repair of life support systems, including filtration, water quality control, plumbing, mechanical equipment, and temperature and humidity regulation for aquatic and terrestrial exhibits and enclosures.
- Work closely with the Senior Environmental Quality Keeper to ensure aquatic and terrestrial parameters are impacted as little as possible by down or malfunctioning LSS.
- Implement and audit teamwork for compliance with standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the maintenance and operation of LSS equipment.
- Coordinate with the Curator, national husbandry, and guest services teams to ensure timely repairs and upgrades to life support systems.
- Conduct regular inspections and preventive maintenance per SOP of all LSS equipment to minimize downtime and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
Team Leadership:
- Supervise and mentor a team of animal keepers, providing guidance, training, and performance evaluations.
- Assign tasks, and ensure that all team members adhere to safety protocols and SOPs.
- Foster a positive and collaborative work environment, promoting professional development and growth among team members.
- Lead by example, demonstrating a strong commitment to animal welfare and conservation.
Collaboration and Communication:
- Work closely with curators, national husbandry team, and other Senior Keepers to support the facility’s mission and goals.
- Participate in planning and implementing new exhibits and upgrades to existing ones.
- Communicate effectively with staff, visitors, and national team, providing updates on LSS operations.
- Represent the facility in professional organizations and at conferences, sharing knowledge and staying updated on industry trends.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology, Zoology, Animal Science, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in a zoo, aquarium, or similar facility, with a focus on life support systems and animal care.
- Proven experience in maintaining and operating complex life support systems.
- Strong leadership skills with experience in managing and developing a team.
- Knowledge of water chemistry, filtration systems, and aquatic animal husbandry.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work under pressure.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across departments.
- Certification in SCUBA diving (preferred).
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds and work in various weather conditions.
Salary : $22 - $24