Life Support Systems Tech

Description: Under general supervision, employee will perform a wide range of functions in the Ectotherm Department at the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere.  Primary responsibility is to maintain and repair filtration on all aquatic animal exhibits, off exhibit tanks, and contiguous areas; perform light exhibit construction; operate zoo vehicles; maintain integrity of existing exhibits and exhibit aquatic plant life.   Additionally, employee may be responsible for educating the public through keeper talks and other impromptu educational sessions as well as providing a clean and safe atmosphere for families to enjoy the Nashville Zoo.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• LSS
• Monitor assigned filtration systems and aquatic habitats.
• Test and maintain proper water quality parameters per species requirements.
• Preform plumbing repairs and pump maintenance.
• Vacuum ponds.
• Operate a variety of light and medium equipment.
• Maintain filtration log books.
• Clean animal exhibits, pools, off-exhibit enclosures, and service areas.
• Provide exhibit security and take appropriate actions to prevent vandalism and maltreatment of animals and facilities by the public.  
• Clean and disinfect utensils, work tools, and containers.

Public Education

• Participate in keeper talks designed to educate the public about the Aquatics Department’s animal collection.
• Respond to questions from the public concerning the animals and exhibits.
• Model the Zoo’s image and code of professional ethics in words and actions at all times.

Skills:

• General knowledge of:
• Filtration and water chemistry
• Plumbing and pump mechanics
• Safety practices around exotic and domestic animals
• Animal biology or zoology or other related field
• Techniques for maintaining water Quality

Capable of:

• Completely performing the responsibilities outlined in the “Duties and Responsibilities” section.
• Monitoring animal behavior and water issues.
• Operating motorized vehicles and equipment; applicant must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Taking and following work instructions.
• Working in a team-oriented atmosphere.
• Effectively communicating with coworkers and supervisors.
• Interacting and communicating with the general public in an appropriate manner.

Physical Requirements:

• Work is indoors and outside year-round under typical Tennessee weather conditions and temperatures for extended periods of time. 
• Must be able to work in uneven terrain with exposure to varying weather conditions, dust, and allergens. 
• Must be able to move about on slippery surfaces, handle toxic and hazardous materials and work in cramped and confined spaces. 
• Must be able to lift and carry materials up to 50 pounds.

Education:

• Zoology, animal biology, animal husbandry or related field beneficial, but experience with plumbing, pool maintenance, or Pump rebuilding beneficial.
• Experience with LSS equipment or any equivalent combination of training and experience, which provides the required work skills, knowledge, and abilities to do this job.

Special Note:

• Applicant may be required to work any combination of five days in the seven-day workweek including holidays.