Senior LSS Water Quality Technician

The Sr. LSS Water Quality Technician is responsible for the upkeep and daily operations of all aquatic life support systems. Works alongside team members and animal care staff daily to ensure appropriate operations of life support equipment and optimal water chemistries in habitats.  Maintains a valid Texas driver’s license and complies with the policy on driving.

Our Mission: 

• Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife. 

Our Vision: 

• Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife. 

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Monitors water quality, clarity and chemistry of aquatic exhibits for normal operations and makes changes as needed
• Effectively communicates inter- and intra-departmentally to ensure water quality operations are conducted in a safe and timely manner
• Efficiently guide and supervise junior staff in executing essential tasks and procedures
• Inspect quality of work performed by crews and contractors in area of responsibility and communicate with Water Quality Manager regarding quality of work
• Troubleshoots and repairs systems and equipment, including ozone generators, pumps, aerators/blowers, filters, etc.
• Maintain life support and water chemistry data and monitor trends
• Ensure that water quality and life support data is current and accurate
• Assist with interviews and selection of employees
• Train entry level staff in work procedures and requirements
• Manage multiple projects at one time and must prioritize appropriately
• Communicate with other departments on work plans
• Ensure world class service is being delivered to Zoo guests
• Establish work standards and procedures and evaluates results
• Order supplies, parts, chemicals and other materials and maintain area within budget
• Follows all safety policies and procedures
• Always maintains the highest standard of work area cleanliness
• Interacts with Zoo guests and maintains the highest level of guest satisfaction
• Contributes to saving animals in the wild through:  reduction of waste, water and energy use and inspiring guests and staff to take wildlife protecting actions
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or general education degree (GED); Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or biology, and 5 years prior experience in zoo or public aquarium life support systems is preferred
• AALSO Water Quality and Life Support Level 2 certifications preferred
• Excellent oral and written communications skills
• Ability to partner across teams and with all levels of staff

ABOUT HOUSTON ZOO 

• The Houston Zoo is made up of many moving parts with over 6,000 permanent residents (our animals) for whom we provide housing, meals, medical care, and, yes, even education!
• There are over 2 million guests each year who come to experience our incredible variety of animals and ecosystems, as well as attend special private and public events and entertainment.
• Our dedicated staff works around the clock to ensure that the Zoo is always running smoothly for the safety and well-being of our residents and guests.
• We strive to ensure the protection of all the counterparts of the animals we have at the Zoo and in the wild. 
• Join the Houston Zoo and become a part of an organization that is focused on the preservation of wildlife and their habitats by combining conservation with education and the promotion of sustainable livelihoods in the local communities.  Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer