Life Support Operator: Water Quality & Animal Care

Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium; Kansas City (KS); On-site; USD 25,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium is seeking a Life Support Operator (full time) to manage water quality across all life support systems—from pools to aquariums. You will backwash filters, monitor chemistry, and coordinate maintenance with the Life Support Curator to ensure safe habitats for animals and visitors.

The role requires hands-on technical skills, ability to lift 75 pounds, flexibility to work weekends and emergencies, and strong communication with animal care teams.

Qualifications

• AALSO Level 1 Life Support Operator certification preferred.
• SCUBA certification preferred.
• Previous experience with life support systems required.
• Knowledge of water chemistry and laboratory techniques.

Responsibilities

• Backwashing filters, water transfers, and pump basket maintenance for all pools and aquariums.
• Maintaining daily checklists for all life support systems.
• Following cleaning and preventive maintenance schedule for life support equipment.
• Performing equipment function checks and calibrations.
• Coordinating parts and supplies ordering with supervisor.
• Reporting maintenance issues and safety hazards to management.
• Helping create operational standards for systems.
• Establishing good working relationships with animal staff to ensure proper operation.

Skills

Computer skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

AALSO Level 1 Life Support Operator certification

SCUBA certification

Job description

Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium is seeking a Life Support Operator (full time) to manage water quality across all life support systems—from pools to aquariums. You will backwash filters, monitor chemistry, and coordinate maintenance with the Life Support Curator to ensure safe habitats for animals and visitors.

The role requires hands-on technical skills, ability to lift 75 pounds, flexibility to work weekends and emergencies, and strong communication with animal care teams.