Life Support Systems (LSS) Technician

Position Title: Life Support Systems (LSS) Technician 

Department: Sea Lions

Reports To: Curator of Carnivores and Hoofstock

Location: Audubon Zoo

Position Type: Full-Time; Non-exempt

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

The Life Support Systems (LSS) Technician is an entry-level to intermediate position with a primary focus on the operation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of the Sea Lion exhibit life support systems and water quality programs. Reporting to the Curator of Carnivores and Hoofstock, this position is responsible for the daily monitoring, maintenance, analysis, repair, and troubleshooting of aquatic life support and water quality systems. While the Sea Lion complex is the primary responsibility, this position will also assist with life support systems, water quality initiatives, exhibit projects, and infrastructure needs throughout Audubon Zoo as assigned.

The LSS Technician serves as a technical resource for animal care staff and develops expertise in water quality management, life support systems, plumbing, mechanical systems, and exhibit infrastructure. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with animal management, veterinary, facilities, construction, and conservation teams to ensure the highest standards of animal welfare, exhibit functionality, regulatory compliance, and guest experience.

Day to Day Responsibilities

•    Perform routine daily, weekly, and monthly water quality testing.

•    Monitor Sea Lion exhibit life support systems to ensure operational performance and compliance with established standards.

•    Perform preventative maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting of pumps, filtration systems, piping, chemical treatment systems, monitoring equipment, and related infrastructure.

•    Assist with maintenance and operational support for additional life support systems and aquatic exhibits throughout Audubon Zoo.

•    Develop working knowledge of marine mammal water quality requirements, filtration technologies, and exhibit maintenance practices.

•    Develop working knowledge of zoological life support systems, plumbing, electrical components, construction methods, and exhibit infrastructure.

•    Maintain accurate records of water quality results, maintenance activities, repairs, and operational performance.

•    Function as a resource for animal care staff regarding daily life support and water quality operations.

•    Assist with implementation and revision of standard operating procedures for life support and water quality programs.

•    Participate in exhibit improvement projects and support new exhibit construction, renovation, and expansion efforts.

•    Identify deficiencies in life support systems and recommend corrective actions.

•    Serve as a liaison between Animal Management, Facilities, Construction, and outside contractors when needed.

•    Assist veterinary and animal care staff in responding to water quality or environmental issues impacting animal health and welfare.

•    Participate in emergency response procedures involving life support systems, animal emergencies, severe weather events, and facility operations.

•    Develop basic knowledge of USDA, AZA, OSHA, and other applicable regulations governing animal care, water quality, and workplace safety.

•    Participate in training opportunities related to life support systems, water quality, aquatic animal care, and facility operations.

•    Support zoo-wide operational needs and special projects as assigned.

Additional/Overall Skills:

•    Maintain a positive attitude and strong sense of accountability while fostering a collaborative team environment.

•    Thrive in a team setting and communicate effectively with staff across multiple departments.

•    Demonstrate strong organizational, problem-solving, and technical skills.

•    Celebrate team successes and contribute to Audubon's culture of positivity and innovation.

•    Remain adaptable and open to learning new skills and technologies.

•    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:

•    Candidates possessing six (6) or more years of directly related professional experience in zoological life support systems, aquatic animal systems, water treatment, aquaculture, or a comparable field may be considered for placement as a Senior Life Support Systems Technician, based on qualifications and demonstrated expertise.

•    Bachelor of Science degree in biology, zoology, environmental science, chemistry, engineering, or a related field from a recognized accredited institution; equivalent experience may be considered.

•    Minimum one (1) year of paid or unpaid experience in a zoological facility, public aquarium, aquaculture or mariculture facility, environmental laboratory, water treatment facility, animal care setting, maintenance environment, or related industry; or demonstrated and verifiable technical skillset.

•    Understanding of professional animal care and welfare standards.

•    Basic knowledge of water chemistry, water quality parameters, and the nitrogen cycle.

•    Ability to learn and troubleshoot mechanical, plumbing, and filtration systems.

•    Ability to perform mathematical calculations related to water quality, chemical dosing, and system operations.

•    Ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team.

•    Ability to engage guests in support of education, conservation, and animal welfare goals.

•    Ability to work weekends, holidays, evenings, and emergency call-ins as needed.

•    Possess a valid driver's license.

Nice-to-Haves:

•    Aquatic Animal Life Support Operator (AALSO) Life Support and/or Water Quality 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

•    Previous firearms experience and willingness to serve on Zoo Weapons Team

•    Expierence in handling of sea lions for husbandry procedures, as needed

•    Basic plumbing, electrical, mechanical, welding, carpentry, or construction experience.

•    Experience collecting, interpreting, and trending water quality data.

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.