Aquatic Systems Technician

Job Code: 32000751
Salary Grade: NC07

Class Concept

This is a supervisory and skilled technical work at the North Carolina Zoo responsible for the routine and standardized testing of both fresh and salt-water exhibits. Water quality of these exhibits must meet MMA (Marine Mammals Act) APHIS/REAC (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service/Regulatory Enforcement and Animal Care) standards as well as all other state and federal laws, rules and regulations that apply. Positions supervise, plan, direct, review and evaluate the work of subordinates; provide on-the-job training; counsel and administer limited discipline to employees; and develop and implement minor adjustments to methods, procedures, schedules, assignments and testing priorities. In addition, the positions fill in for subordinates in performing or checking the more complex, controversial and/or advanced work of their section; and functions as the technical expert for their specialty area. Position applies technical knowledge of chemistry principles, testing procedures and methods and techniques to conduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses of exhibit water. Position will also perform maintenance on sand filters, life support pumps, ozone generators, compressors, air handling units, pH controllers, chlorine analyzers and related laboratory testing equipment. The consequence of error in this area of responsibility could result in the death or endangerment of valuable animals and a financial loss to the State. Positions receive minimal supervision from the General Curator.

Recruitment Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of the basic principles, concepts and reference sources used in the application of chemical analysis.
• Ability to perform and record moderately complex standardized tests for water quality.
• Ability to provide supervision and instruction to direct reports.
• Ability to understand and follow moderately complex objectives and instructions.
• Ability to perform maintenance and troubleshoot problems on aquatic systems and associated pumps, filters, generators and other equipment related to the area of responsibility.
• Ability to resolve problems and/or issues without compromising quality standards.

Minimum Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree in chemistry or microbiology from an appropriately accredited institution; or Associate's degree in chemical technology, environmental science technology; or related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution and two (2) years of related experience in water chemistry and/or aquatic systems maintenance or related experience; or

Completion of at least two (2) years of college with at least 20 semester hours of chemistry coursework, and two (2) years of related experience in water chemistry and/or aquatic systems maintenance or related experience; or an equivalent combination of training and directly related experience;

Necessary Special Requirements

Must have ability to obtain a diver certification from a nationally recognized organization or member of the Recreational SCUBA Training Council (PADI, SDI, SSI, YMCA etc.), NAUI etc. Must have a valid North Carolina Driver's License.