Supervisor of Aquatics and Life Support Systems

Association Of Zoos & Aquariums; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading zoo and aquarium organization in Tampa, Florida, seeks a Supervisor of Aquatics and Life Support Systems. This role involves overseeing the daily care and maintenance of aquatic systems, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations, and mentoring staff. The ideal candidate will possess substantial experience in aquatic husbandry and safety protocols, alongside strong leadership skills. Full-time benefits include insurance options, retirement plan, and free admission to various attractions.

Benefits

Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance

Retirement Plan

Generous PTO

Free admission to Zoo

Free gym membership

Qualifications

• 5 years of experience in aquatic animal husbandry and life support operations.
• SCUBA certification required; advanced diving credentials preferred.
• Must be self-motivated, detail-oriented, and goal-driven.

Responsibilities

• Supervises daily care of aquatic animals and maintenance of life support systems.
• Participates in exhibit design and construction projects related to aquatic habitats.
• Guides subordinates on advanced aquatic care and life support procedures.

Skills

Aquatic animal husbandry

Life support systems knowledge

Leadership and team building

Excellent communication

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's or Associate's degree in relevant field

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Overview

ZooTampa at Lowry Park in Tampa, Florida, invites applications for the position of Supervisor of Aquatics and Life Support Systems. The Zoo is AZA-accredited and offers educational programming, exhibits, and guest experiences.

AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums, Related Facilities, Commercial Members, Conservation Partners and Society Partners may post free unlimited online job listings as a member benefit. Non-members can purchase job listings.

Responsibilities

• Supervises assignments related to the daily care and husbandry of aquatic animals, as well as the operation and maintenance of life support systems (LSS) across aquatic habitats.
• Ensures proper and safe use, care, and maintenance of all life support equipment, tools, and SCUBA gear. Secures and monitors access to ensure only trained or certified personnel operate equipment. Promotes a culture of safety and ensures proper PPE use within the department.
• Under the direction of the Curator, assists with mentoring, training, scheduling, safety, development, and performance management of aquatics and LSS staff. Reports human resource needs to management prior to action.
• Establishes and maintains efficient work routines for aquatic habitats and life support systems that meet or exceed AZA, USDA, EPA, and OSHA standards as well as other applicable regulatory requirements.
• Inspects aquatic habitats and life support facilities daily at the beginning and end of shifts, promptly reporting equipment failures, unsafe conditions, animal illnesses, or abnormal behavior to Animal Department leadership and veterinary staff.
• Maintains detailed, accurate records of animal care, water quality, and system performance. Submits daily reports and assumes operational responsibility of assigned areas in the absence or at the request of Animal Department management.
• Actively participates in exhibit design, renovation, and construction projects related to aquatic habitats and LSS. Provides input on equipment selection, habitat functionality, and animal welfare considerations.
• Assists in safe animal transfers, water quality adjustments, and habitat inspections; responds to and supports veterinary care including waterborne treatment protocols and specialized aquatic health needs.
• Provides oversight and expertise in selective breeding programs and long-term aquatic collection planning under the direction of leadership.
• Assists with guest engagement by providing accurate and engaging information during tours, programs, and events. Encourages team members to support guest experiences through both formal and informal interactions.
• Responds to and assists managers in guiding emergency situations (e.g., Code 1, 2, 3) related to aquatic animals, life support operations, or water systems.
• Guides subordinates on advanced aquatic care and life support procedures.
• Observes and enforces safety policies in the use of zoo equipment, materials, chemicals, compressed gases, SCUBA gear, and vehicles.
• Acts as point of contact in manager’s absence, coordinating activities between departments (e.g., Facilities, Horticulture, Events, etc.) as needed.
• Demonstrates flexibility and willingness to perform additional responsibilities in support of the department and the zoo as a whole.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in biology, marine biology, aquatic sciences, natural sciences, or related field; or equivalent specialized training.
• Minimum of 5 years’ professional experience in aquatic animal husbandry and life support operations, preferably within an AZA-accredited zoological or aquarium setting.
• Advanced knowledge of aquatic animal diets, behaviors, breeding, and husbandry practices.
• Understanding of how aquatic animal behavior informs management and veterinary care; ability to apply operant and classical conditioning techniques.
• Strong working knowledge of life support systems including pumps, filtration, ozone, UV sterilization, chillers, and water chemistry.
• Experience with occupational hazards and safety precautions specific to aquatic animal care and life support operations.
• AALSO LSS Level 2 preferred; AALSO Water Quality Level 1 preferred.
• SCUBA certification required; advanced or scientific diving credentials preferred.
• Demonstrated skills in leadership, team building, and personnel management.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with ability to effectively engage guests and represent the zoo in public settings.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and digital record-keeping platforms.
• Must be self-motivated, detail-oriented, and goal-driven.
• Ability to maintain discretion with confidential information.
• Strong problem-solving abilities with capacity to troubleshoot LSS and operational issues with minimal supervision.
• Ability to build and maintain positive working relationships across departments.
• Professional demeanor with capacity to act courteously and tactfully under difficult circumstances.
• Flexibility to multi-task in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a positive attitude.
• Capacity to anticipate needs, plan ahead, and adapt quickly to change.

Other Requirements

• Conducts all activities in alignment with AZA standards, USDA and EPA regulations, OSHA safety standards, and all relevant laws that ensure animal welfare and water quality compliance.
• Ability to work in extreme weather conditions typical of west central Florida (heat, rain, cold).
• Must have sensory, cognitive, and physical capacity necessary for safe animal and aquatic system care.
• Ability to operate radios, telephones, and computers; follow written and verbal instructions.
• Must be able to work in varied physical positions (sitting, bending, standing, walking) and engage in physical labor (raking, sweeping, shoveling, scrubbing pools, diving).
• Ability to navigate paved and rough terrain on foot and by vehicle.
• Must be able to safely lift and move up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work long hours and varied shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to support special events and collection needs.

Benefits

Full-time Benefits Our Perks at ZooTampa: Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance options; STD, LTD, Life Insurance, and Supplemental Insurance Options; 403(b) Retirement Plan; Generous PTO (Vacation and Wellness) time; Employee Assistance Program; Free admission to the Zoo, MOSI, and the Florida Aquarium; Free gym membership; Free or discounted admission to many attractions in Florida; And so much more!

How to apply

Please visit www.ZooTampa.org/careers to see all of our job opportunities and internships.

Location

ZooTampa at Lowry Park, 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa, FL 33604