Life Support Technician

Job Details

Every animal at Mystic Aquarium depends on the water systems our Life Support team runs around the clock. We are hiring at multiple levels on this team, including a Senior Technician and one or more Assistant or Technician positions. Submit one application and we will place you at the level that best matches your combined education, experience, and certifications. Full job descriptions for each level are available upon request.

What the Team Does (All Levels):

• Operate, monitor, maintain, and repair aquatic life support equipment, including pumps, filters, protein fractionators, UV sterilizers, ozone generators, chemical dosing equipment, heat exchangers, and process controls.


• Carry out preventative maintenance, inspections, and equipment installations, including PVC plumbing and system modifications.


• Document maintenance, system performance, and work orders accurately.


• Handle chemicals and controlled materials safely, following SDS and PPE protocols.


• Partner with Water Quality, animal care, veterinary, and dive safety staff to protect animal health and welfare.


• Respond to after-hours system emergencies as needed.

Requirements

• Experience with PVC plumbing; maintenance of pumps, filters, and valves; and water chemistry in aquatic animal systems.


• Comfort with power tools, machinery, and forklift operation; general knowledge of electrical systems and controls.


• Ability to read P&IDs, blueprints, and technical drawings.


• Proficiency in MS Office; TRACKS experience preferred.


• SCUBA certification or the ability to pass a swim test.


• Valid driver's license.


• Ability to lift 75 pounds and work in confined spaces, at heights, and in rain, snow, and heat.


• Availability for after-hours, weekend, holiday, and emergency work.



 
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How the Levels Differ:

Assistant LSS Technician

LSS Technician

Senior LSS Technician

Role focus

Learns and supports system operations under direction of senior staff

Operates and repairs the full range of LSS equipment

Leads technicians and assistants; resolves complex system issues

Independence

Follows established SOPs; reports abnormal conditions for resolution

Works independently with minimal supervision

Develops courses of action and implements SOPs with Manager approval

Experience

1 year hands-on LSS or mechanical systems

2 years hands-on LSS or mechanical systems

3 years hands-on LSS or mechanical systems

Education

Associate's degree preferred

Bachelor's degree preferred

Bachelor's degree preferred

AALSO certification

No certifications immediately required

Level 1, or within 1 year of hire

Level 1 required at hire; Level 2 preferred

Other preferred

None

None

AALSO Water Quality Level 1

Pay

$23.47 to $27.27/hour

$27.61 to $32.09/hour

$32.38 to $37.63/hour

Level placement is based on a combination of education, experience, and certifications. An equitable mix will be considered.

Which Level Fits You?

Assistant LSS Technician: You have hands-on mechanical, plumbing, or pump and filter experience and want to build a career in aquatic life support. You will assist with daily operations, troubleshooting, and installations while learning our systems from experienced staff.

LSS Technician: You can operate, maintain, and repair life support equipment on your own. You will own day-to-day system performance, work directly with contractors and vendors, and help develop operating procedures.

Senior LSS Technician: You hold at least an AALSO Level 1 certification, have deep experience with large aquatic systems, and are ready to lead. You will guide the technician team, solve the hardest system problems, and shape the procedures the department runs on.

Contact Information

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