Supervisor of Operations Life Support Systems

Job DescriptionPosition: Supervisor, Operations/ Life Support Systems (LSS)Reports to: Assistant Director of FacilitiesPosition Managed: No direct reports but interacts and may oversee outside contractors, consultants, and other service providers, coordinates with Animal Dept. & oversee Operation Dept. staff on weekend.Location: Bronx ZooDepartment: Facilities and OperationsScope: Based at Bronx ZooPosition Type: Full TimeAbout Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)WCS stands for wildlife and wild places. As the world's premier wildlife conservation organization, WCS has a long track record of achieving innovative, impactful results at scale. We run field programs spanning 60 countries and the entire ocean. We build on a unique foundation: Our reach is global; we discover through best-in-class science; we protect through work on the ground with local and indigenous people; we inspire through our world-class zoos, aquarium, and education programs; and we leverage our resources through partnerships and powerful policy influence. Our more than 4,000 diverse, passionately committed team members in New York City and around the world work collectively to achieve our conservation mission.Position SummaryThe Life Support Systems Technician is responsible for the daily operation and maintenance of all aquatic and terrestrial Life Support Systems (LSS). This position will be responsible for monitoring all phases of exhibit water treatment processing as well as equipment , condition and making necessary changes or repairs to the system equipment as needed. This position will also be responsible for managing the regulatory requirements associated with all Cooling Towers and maintaining such systems. Responsibilities also include managerial functions over Operations Department union staff and assisting with the repairs or upgrades to Zoo infrastructurePrincipal Responsibilities Work closely with animal department managers, and Operations Department management to develop and implement all standard operating and prevent maintenance procedures for the life support systems and/or control systems. Perform all operational responsibilities of life support as needed. Maintain and repair pumps, filters, ozonation and all other equipment relevant to aquatic life support. Work closely with Animal Department staff in planning, layout, purchasing and implementation of projects related to aquatic life support systems. Monitor & maintain manual & automated chemical systems used to control sanitary standards of NYC regulated Cooling Towers. Maintain proper operation of the cooling towers by cleaning and conducting preventive maintenance to mechanical and electrical components. Keep up to date water quality logs and associated documentation per the NYC Department of Health in regard to Cooling Towers and regulated inspections. Supervise and provide Supervisory functions over Operations Department staff on weekends. Respond to and address work requests from the Animal Departments. Respond to emergencies and communicate such situations with Management. Assist the Operations Department in carrying out Capital Projects, infrastructure upgrades and maintenance tasks. Document and maintain records of mechanical systems operations, implementation, maintenance and problems. Record water quality and other data such as temperatures, pressures, equipment, hours/days of operation, water levels, flow, ORP, pH, ozone and other parameters as directed. Visually inspect equipment at regular intervals to detect malfunctions or need for repair, adjustment or lubrication. Adjust controls as necessary to bring systems into recommended operating ranges. Work closely with Animal Department staff to ensure an adequate inventory of supplies and materials for uninterrupted operation and maintenance of aquatic life support systems. Provide training as needed to other WCS personnel on physical, biological and mechanical aspects of the aquatic life support systems, and/or aquatic animals in his/her care. Work weekends, holidays and/or nights, as necessary, to maintain life support systems. "Call-ins" at these times may also occur on an emergency basis. Abide by the policies and practices of the Wildlife Conservation Society and assist in activities intended to maximize the quality of the visitor experience. Qualification Requirements High School Diploma Required Minimum 4 years' experience in an aquarium, zoo, water treatment plant or industrial systems operation. College degree in engineering, biology, or a related field is preferred. 5-10 years of hands-on mechanical experience, including extensive wrench time and on-site fieldwork. 5-10 years of industry plumbing experience, including system disassembly and diagnostics without supervision. Proven background as an automotive mechanic with deep technical knowledge and troubleshooting skills. Must be proficient in fluid handling/pumping systems, biological filtration systems and strong preference for experience with controls, air compressors, ozone-generating equipment, and cooling towers. Possess the ability to diagnose and repair LSS equipment, including pumps, heat exchangers, air compressors, control systems, and all types of filtration equipment. Must be proficient in the use of test equipment, hand tools, shop equipment, and in pipe fitting utilizing PVC, FRP, and tubing. Must have excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate well in both written and oral reports. Proficiency in computer applications and software such as MS Office (incl. Excel), etc., and the ability to design and manipulate spreadsheets. Physical RequirementsThe physical demands include but are not limited to the use of a Keyboard, 10-key, Mouse, and Telephone Use, Handwriting, Sitting, Standing, Crouching, Kneeling, Bending, Walking, Stair Climbing, minimal Driving, and Lifting up to 50lbs. Equal Employment Opportunity Disclaimer WCS is an equal opportunity employer, and the organization complies with all employment and labor laws and regulations that prohibit discrimination in hiring and ensures that candidates from all backgrounds are fairly and consistently considered during the recruitment process. We are dedicated to hiring and engaging in a diverse workforce. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment and looking for future team members who share that same value. The organization provides equal employment opportunities for all qualified candidates. The organization does not discriminate for employment based on gender, race/ethnicity, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, caste, genetic information or any other covered status or characteristic protected by laws and regulations/and similar categories.It is everyone's responsibility to ensure that we do not tolerate discrimination or harassment based upon a person's membership in one of these protected categories in areas such as recruitment, selection, job assignment, supervision, training, promotions, promotions, job grading, transfers, termination, compensation, benefits, educational opportunities, WCS sponsored recreational activities and facilities. The organization complies with the spirit and intent of relevant local laws and WCS's employment policies.Note that the salary offer will reflect the selected candidate's individual experiences, skills and qualifications, internal equity, work location and country of work.Salary Range$75,000.00 to $85,000.00

Created: 2025-04-29