Aquarium Life Support Systems Operator
Maintainers of complex mechanical and chemical filtration systems that ensure aquatic animal health and survival.
Overview
The role of a Life Support Systems Operator is a blend of industrial engineering and environmental science. Daily operations involve constant monitoring of water quality parameters and the mechanical integrity of massive filtration loops. Operators spend significant time in mechanical rooms or behind-the-scenes areas, performing preventative maintenance on heavy machinery and responding to system alarms that indicate fluctuations in oxygen levels, flow rates, or chemical balances.
Success in this career requires a high level of technical aptitude and the ability to remain calm during mechanical failures that threaten live collections. The work follows a rhythmic cycle of water testing and equipment servicing, but it is punctuated by urgent troubleshooting of electronic sensors or hydraulic leaks. Those who excel are typically detail-oriented individuals who enjoy hands-on mechanics and have a deep appreciation for the intersection of technology and biology.
responsibilities
Responsibilities
- Monitor and adjust automated control systems to maintain water quality within biological safety limits.
- Perform routine maintenance on centrifugal pumps, protein skimmers, and ultraviolet sterilization units.
- Conduct chemical analysis of water samples to measure ammonia, nitrate, and pH levels.
- Calibrate electronic sensors and probes used for real-time monitoring of life support parameters.
- Diagnose and repair mechanical failures in piping, valves, and filtration media.
- Coordinate with husbandry staff to prepare water for new animal arrivals or medical treatments.
- Maintain detailed logs of system performance and environmental data for regulatory compliance.
Qualifications
- A bachelor's degree in marine science, environmental engineering, or a related technical field is standard.
- Experience operating industrial fluid handling systems or large-scale water treatment facilities is essential.
- Certification in Life Support Systems through organizations such as AALSO is typically required.
- Proficiency in reading mechanical blueprints and electrical schematics is necessary for troubleshooting.
- Physical ability to lift heavy equipment and work in damp or confined mechanical spaces is required.
Nice to have
- Advanced AALSO Level 2 or 3 certification demonstrates high-level technical expertise.
- SCUBA certification is beneficial for inspecting underwater intakes and infrastructure.
- Experience with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) and SCADA systems enhances operational efficiency.
Work environment
- Work is primarily conducted on-site in humid, loud mechanical rooms and back-of-house areas.
- The role often requires shift work, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to provide 24/7 coverage.
- Operators use a variety of hand tools, water quality testing kits, and computer-based monitoring software.
- The culture is highly collaborative, requiring close communication with animal care and facilities teams.
Benefits & growth
- Career progression typically leads to Senior Operator, LSS Manager, or Director of Facilities roles.
- Professional development is often supported through specialized technical training and AALSO symposiums.
- Compensation packages in public institutions generally include stable hourly or salaried pay with government or non-profit benefits.
- Skill sets in water treatment are highly transferable to municipal water management or aquaculture industries.
See how Aquarium Life Support Systems Operator fits you
Take the free Apt quiz for a personalized match score, salary insights, and AI career coaching.
Take the free quiz