The Life Support Operator is responsible for the operation, monitoring, and maintenance of aquatic animal life support systems (LSS) that sustain the health and well-being of the zoo’s aquatic animal collection. This position ensures the proper function of a wide range of mechanical, electrical, and automated systems including pumps, filtration systems, ozone and UV sterilizers, protein skimmers, and chemical dosing equipment. Working closely with Water Quality and Animal Care teams, the Life Support Operator responds to system alarms, conducts routine inspections and preventative maintenance, and makes technical adjustments to maintain stable environmental conditions. This role requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to problem-solving in a mission-driven, safety-conscious environment. 

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: 

Life Support Operations and Monitoring 

• Interprets water chemistry data to identify trends and makes recommend corrective actions. 

• Records and enters operational data accurately into digital recordkeeping systems (e.g., PlantLog, Tracks). 

• Conducts routine system maintenance on aquatic animal LSS systems and makes recommendations for changes to senior Water Quality (WQ) staff. 

• Performs basic troubleshooting and repair of LSS equipment, including (but not limited to) regenerative media filters, circulation and dosing pumps, protein skimmers, ozone generators and UV sterilizers. 

• Reads, understands, and follows all relevant Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). 

• Implements modifications to SOPs at the direction of senior WQ staff. 

• Maintains the highest standards of cleanliness in all work areas and technical spaces. 

Staff Training and Mentorship 

• Assists in training junior staff in system operations, including morning and afternoon rounds. 

• Supports the onboarding and skill development of junior staff in preventative maintenance procedures and routine system checks. 

Dive Operations and Certification 

• Must hold, or obtain, Open Water SCUBA Certification. 

• Supports dive operations in aquatic animal habitats. 

Communication and Collaboration 

• Communicates deviations from standard operating parameters to senior WQ staff in a timely and accurate manner. 

• Analyzes data trends and reports operational observations clearly and professionally to support decision-making. 

Guest Engagement and Conservation Impact 

• Interacts professionally with zoo guests to uphold the highest level of guest service and satisfaction. 

• Actively contributes to conservation efforts by supporting waste, water and energy reduction initiatives and by inspiring staff and guests to take wildlife-protecting actions. 

Safety and Compliance 

• Adheres to all safety policies and procedures at all times. 

• Performs other duties as assigned to support water quality and life support operations 

Education and Experience 

• Associate degree (AA) or equivalent from a two-year college or technical school, or six months to one year of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 

• AALSO Water Quality and Life Support Level 2 Certification. 

• Open Water Dive Certification. 

• Knowledge of science, theory and application of water/wastewater treatment and operations, water quality monitoring and quality assurance programs. 

• Proficiency with PVC plumbing systems and related hand tools 

• Must possess knowledge of current and emerging environmental issues and environmental regulations impacting water resources and facility operations.  

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 promotion of sustainable livelihoods in the local communities.  Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer.