Aza Fort Worth , TX 76102
Posted 2 weeks ago
Fort Worth Zoo
Named one of the "World's Greatest" for the care of 7,000 animals and conservation around the world.
Environmental Quality and Life Support System Biologist
Summary:
This position is responsible for supervising and coordinating all operations related to life support systems and environmental monitoring for Fort Worth Zoo collection animals. Additionally, this position will liaise with the construction and maintenance department regarding construction and daily operation, maintenance, repair of life support systems and equipment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Collaborate with animal programs department curators to develop, implement, and maintain protocols and procedures to ensure optimal water quality, environmental parameters, and wellbeing for all Fort Worth Zoo collection species with a primary focus on aquatic systems
Maintain direct responsibility and accountability for the performance of water quality testing and results including notification of vested parties should concerns arise
Work with the construction and maintenance department in the design and sourcing for life support systems (LSS) and equipment that pertain to collection species
Work in tandem with the animal programs department area managers (supervisors/curators) to troubleshoot problems with water quality and LSS functionality
Serve as primary liaison with construction and maintenance department related to environmental safety and health for collection animals; ensure seamless coordination between departments
Maintain meticulous records for water quality, routine maintenance and cleaning, and any treatments or alterations made within assigned areas; develop, implement and supervise training to ensure staff compliance with recordkeeping policies procedures
Exhibit leadership within the animal programs department through development and implementation of goals, objectives, policies, and priorities related to safe animal environments
Monitor and evaluate for quality and efficiency of the Zoo's LSS systems and recommend prioritized improvements as appropriate
Participate in approved research projects, as applicable
Coordinate, lead, and participate in regular meetings with animal program managers and construction and maintenance staff related to environmental systems
Develop and maintain an inventory of environmental systems related to animal exhibits and holding areas for long-term management and optimization of resources
Provide interpretation and recommendations for water chemistry parameters pertinent to environmental systems that ensures meeting or exceeding AZA, USDA, and Fort Worth Zoo standards
Remain current on regulations and laws relating to life support and water quality standards and communicate as needed
Share and maintain expertise related to environmental quality in a zoological facility
Attend and participate in professional group meetings; stay abreast of new trends and innovations in the field of zoo environmental management and water quality monitoring
Coordinate assigned activities and operations with other departments, divisions, outside agencies, and the public
Assist where needed in inter-departmental projects and functions
Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned
Supervisory Responsibilities:
Develop and implement basic training for animal programs department staff related to water quality monitoring and recording as well as interventions to address aberrations
Develop and maintain a system to ensure records and policies remain up-to-date
Supervise and participate in the research, planning, construction, installation, and maintenance of environmental systems (e.g. LSS, air handing/filtration, etc.) related to animal exhibits and holding spaces
Develop and implement proper emergency procedures related to LSS and facilitate appropriate maintenance of emergency equipment and supplies
Monitor work environment to ensure adherence to all safety protocols and procedures
Use independent judgment and critical thinking skills to problem solve, collaborate and provide necessary direction to staff members at all levels
Demonstrate leadership of employees through ongoing training to include applicable laws, Zoo policies, business conduct and ethics and the provision of quality services to guests and employees supporting the highest level of program integrity
Qualifications:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
Aquatic Animal Life Support Operator (AALSO) Level I (or higher) Water Quality Certification preferred
Proficiency in regulations concerning marine animal housing, Life Support Systems (LSS), and Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) for accreditation standards
Proficiency in automated controls and monitoring equipment, water chemistry principles, and related maintenance and repair tasks
Knowledge of occupational hazards and appropriate safety precautions
Knowledge of zoonotic diseases and prevention
Knowledge of ozone systems with both fresh and saltwater applications
Knowledge of chlorine dosing/monitoring systems
Understanding of Nitrogen cycle and how it affects various animals and water parameters
Ability to troubleshoot problems associated with animal-related environmental systems including complex water treatment and filtration systems
Sound judgment and ability to use critical thinking for effective decision-making
Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing
Ability to develop and sustain effective working relationships
Ability to effectively collaborate with multiple departments while maintaining tact and diplomacy
Valid driver license with acceptable motor vehicle record to maintain Zoo standards of insurability
SCUBA certification preferred
Education and/or Experience:
Bachelor's degree in wildlife management, zoology, biology, ecology, chemistry, or related field
Minimum of 5 years increasingly responsible experience in the development, implementation, and maintenance of life support systems for a variety of zoological taxa, or equivalent combination of education and experience
Direct experience with aquatic life support management required
Experience operating automated life support systems with demonstrated ability to work with various computer programs and software related to essential functions of the position
Supervisory experience within an AZA or closely related animal care facility desirable
Physical Demands:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, sit, and talk or hear. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 75 pounds.
Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
Team oriented environment
Ability to work irregular hours (holidays and weekends)
Exposure to a variety of domestic and wild or potentially dangerous animals; animal odors and animal body fluids
Exposure to all types of inclement weather conditions
Exposure to chemicals (cleaning, water chemicals, additives, etc.)
Ability to work special events and functions as required
Disclaimer
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as a complete inventory of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor.
Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an at-will basis.
Benefits
This is a full-time position and offers the following benefits:
Medical and Prescription Drug (Employee Coverage 90% Employer Paid, Dependent Coverage 55% Employer Paid)
Vision
Dental
Basic Life AD&D (100% Employer Paid)
Short Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
Long Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
Supplemental Life
Flexible Spending Account
401k
Paid Time Off (Accrual Equivalent to 5 Weeks Per Year)
PTO Rollover
PTO Sell Back
Free Zoo Membership
Free Guest Passes
Discounts on Food, Merchandise, Attractions, Admission and Programs
How to Apply
Apply online
Fort Worth Zoo
1989 Colonial Parkway
Fort Worth , TX 76110
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@fortworthzoo
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