Life Support Operator & Water Quality
Tech Level 1 (Zoo Aquatics)
Location
Tucson, Arizona, United States
Work type
Onsite
Employment
Full Time
Experience
0-1 years
Compensation
$20 - $24 per hour
Posted
7h ago
Summary and responsibilities
Role overview
Summary
The Life Support Operator & Water Quality Technician – Level 1 is responsible for the routine operation and basic maintenance of aquatic life support systems and the collection and testing of water samples at Reid Park Zoo. This entry-level role supports the Life Support & Water Quality team in ensuring all aquatic environments meet or exceed standards for animal health, safety, and welfare as defined by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA).
Reid Park Zoological Society (Reid Park Zoo) is seeking a Life Support Operator & Water Quality Technician – Level 1 to join our water team. This is an entry-level, fully benefited position with robust on-the-job training. The role supports aquatic life support systems and water quality programs to ensure animal health, safety, and welfare in accordance with Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) standards.
Reid Park Zoo is AZA-accredited, participates in nearly 100 Species Survival Plans, attracts approximately 600,000 guests annually, and is expanding through its Pathway to Asia project, scheduled to open in late 2026.
Pay: $20.75–$24.38/hour
Reports to: Facilities Manager
Benefits
Medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance; paid holidays, vacation and sick leave; retirement plan; zoo membership; employee assistance program; tuition reimbursement; and discounts on concessions and gift shop purchases.
Key Responsibilities
Operate and monitor pumps, filters, ozone systems, UV sterilizers, chillers, heat exchangers and other life support equipment.
Assist with routine inspections and preventative maintenance.
Collect and test water for temperature, pH, chlorine, salinity, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate and dissolved oxygen.
Accurately record and report water quality, maintenance and daily-rounds data.
Assist with system adjustments and chemical dosing under supervision.
Maintain inventory of chemicals, parts and supplies.
Follow safety procedures for chemicals, machinery, confined spaces and other hazards.
Support emergency response procedures and drills.
Work cooperatively with Animal Care and Facilities teams.
Maintain clean, organized life support areas and mechanical rooms.
Provide excellent customer service and model Zoo policies and core values.
Note: This is not a hands-on animal care position.
Required Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent; relevant education/experience may be considered.
Valid, unrestricted driver's license.
Ability to accurately follow written and verbal instructions.
Detail-oriented, reliable and safety-focused.
AALSO LSS Operator 1 and Water Quality 1 certification, or ability to obtain both within 2 years.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, public-facing environment and respond positively to direction and feedback.
Regular, reliable attendance.
Availability for weekends, holidays, evenings and on-call rotation.
Successful completion of background check, pre-employment drug screen and annual TB testing. Quarterly random drug testing may apply; the Zoo does not test for THC.
Physical/Work Environment
Must be able to frequently lift up to 50 lbs., bend, stoop, kneel, reach, stand and walk for extended periods, and use hand and power tools. Work may occur in wet, hot, humid, noisy and outdoor environments, including confined spaces and at heights. Employees may work around chemicals, biohazards and machinery noise; PPE is provided.
Preferred Qualifications
Associate degree or technical certification in aquaculture, water treatment, biology, chemistry, mechanical/electrical systems or a related field.
One year of mechanical, plumbing or water-system maintenance experience.
Experience with aquariums, pools, aquatic facilities, zoos or similar systems.
Basic knowledge of pumps, filters, valves and plumbing.
Familiarity with AZA water quality standards.
Bilingual skills, including ASL.
Additional Information: Position is open until filled. No phone calls or visits, please. Reid Park Zoological Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to an inclusive workplace and provides reasonable accommodations in accordance with the ADA.
Updated 7h ago
Candidate fit
Skills and qualifications
Additional skills
Experience
0-1 years
Certifications
How this role is positioned
Role classification
Job domains
Industries
Employment
Full Time
Contract duration
Permanent
Hiring type
Direct
Global hiring
Location specific
Offer details
Compensation and benefits
Compensation
$20 - $24 per hour
Benefits and perks
Location, schedule, and role shape
Work setup
Work conditions
Bandwidth profile
Context on the employer
Company snapshot
Company
Reid Park Zoological Society
Team size
Growing team
Location
Tucson, Arizona, United States
The Reid Park Zoological Society (Reid Park Zoo) is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and participates in nearly 100 Species Survival Plans for threatened and endangered species. Reid Park Zoo maintains a state-of-the-art elephant program, a cutting-edge veterinary clinic that serves as a teaching hospital for the University of Arizona veterinary program, and is a leader in the songbird and monarch SAFE (Saving Animals From Extinction) programs. The Zoo attracts 600,000 guests annually and is undergoing an expansion project, Pathway to Asia, adding new species and a breeding facility for Malayan tigers.
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Life Support Operator & Water Quality
Tucson, Arizona, United States • Full Time