Life Support Systems Operator

The Life Support Systems Operator is a technical position, responsible for the safe operation of Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium’s freshwater and saltwater operations at Mote facilities.  This classification requires a sensible knowledge of aquatic life support systems and associated equipment through education or commensurate experience.  The Life Support Operator is expected to assist in the renovation and improvement of life support systems by researching equipment and comparable systems from vendors and other aquatic institutions.  The Life Support Systems Operator will possess the ability to troubleshoot life support systems and assist with the design and installation of new systems and equipment.  The Life Support Systems Operator is expected to perform high quality work in support of Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium’s mission.
 
General Duties:
Duties will include, but are not limited to, daily operation and maintenance of ozone generators, compressors and associated peripheral equipment, pump repair, high rate sand filters operation and maintenance, as well as daily operation of water distribution systems.  General water chemistry and experience in repair and maintenance of mechanical systems as necessary.
 
The Life Support Systems Operator will participate in the design, installation and maintenance of closed and open saltwater systems, seawater heater/chiller equipment, filtrations systems, and pump equipment.
 
The Life Support Systems Operator will cooperate with staff, volunteers, and contractors, but must be able to work and make decisions independently.    
Any other duties in support of Mesocosm activities.
Minimum Requirements:
 
Work Experience:  Commensurate experience considered. Knowledge of aquatic animal husbandry preferred.  The ability to work outside in all weather conditions as well as in tight quarters is mandatory
 
Immigration Status:   Ability to work legally in the United States.
 
Valid Florida Driver’s License:  Required or the ability to obtain one within 60 days of employment
                                   
Skills:                       
                                    Excellent verbal communication skills
                                    Capable of performing routine tasks accurately and efficiently
Capable of repair and maintenance of mechanical systems
Experience in aquatic animal care is preferred. 
Ability to cooperatively work with staff, volunteers and contractors
Ability to make decisions and work independently
Ability to work with and glue PVC pipe up to 4 inches
Ability to troubleshoot life support systems
Ability to design advanced life support systems
Ability to use hand and power tools
Physical:
 
                                    Tolerance of working with wet hands, feet and clothes everyday
Ability to safely lift and carry 60 lbs occasionally
Ability to lift 25 lbs overhead occasionally
                                    Strength to open pump baskets and turn valves
Ability to spend the majority of the workday walking, standing, bending and lifting
Tolerance to work around noisy machinery and equipment
Tolerance to the smell of fish and animal feces
Ability to tolerate chemicals and solvents
                                    Ability to work in confined spaces
            Capable of climbing and working from ladders
Ability to work outside in all Florida weather conditions
 
Working Hours:
Normal hours are 8.00 am to 5.00 pm either Sunday to Thursday or Tuesday to Saturday and will include holiday shifts.  These hours may be adjustable with the approval of senior personnel. Occasional longer daily hours may be required to complete specific tasks. The Life Support Systems Operator will be available after hours and weekends on occasion to support emergency situations.
 
 
To Apply:
Interested applicants should apply on line by choosing “2023 Life Support Systems Operator, Sarasota”  at https://mote.smapply.org/prog/job_applicants or mail a single package including cover letter, resume or c.v. and the contact information for three references to Mote Marine Laboratory, Attn: Human Resources, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236 before 5pm June 2, 2023.
 
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected category. Mote participates in E-Verify.