Water Quality Lab Lead, Aquatic Systems & Compliance

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden; Cincinnati (OH); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden Maintenance Department seeks an experienced Water Quality Lab Lead to supervise and coordinate the zoo's water quality program, ensuring accurate testing, data integrity, and regulatory compliance.

This full-time union position leads lab staff, maintains SOPs, calibrates instruments, analyzes results, and partners with Animal Care, Veterinary, and Maintenance to support animal health and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, environmental science, aquatic science, or related field.
• At least one year of water chemistry or aquatic systems experience.
• Demonstrated experience coordinating laboratory operations.
• Valid driver's license and insurability to drive a Zoo vehicle.
• Ability to stoop, bend, climb, lift and carry 50 lbs.
• AALSO certification strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of QA/QC, data review, and safe chemical handling.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Zoo's water quality monitoring program for aquatic habitats and features.
• Supervise, train, and support laboratory staff; assign daily work and set performance expectations.
• Establish and review SOPs, QC practices, sampling plans, testing methods, and documentation.
• Review, interpret, and communicate water quality results; coordinate corrective actions.
• Oversee calibration and maintenance of laboratory and field instrumentation.
• Ensure lab safety, cleanliness, and inspection readiness.
• Manage water quality analysis for marine mammals, fish, and other habitats.
• Maintain records, dashboards, and reports; analyze data for trends and risks.
• Partner with Life Support Systems and Maintenance on aquatic systems operations.
• Coordinate staffing, supplies, service contracts, vendors, and inventory.
• Support design and modification of aquatic exhibits with water quality requirements.
• Support audits, inspections, and continuous-improvement initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Water quality

Laboratory coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden Maintenance Department seeks an experienced Water Quality Lab Lead to supervise and coordinate the zoo's water quality program, ensuring accurate testing, data integrity, and regulatory compliance.

This full-time union position leads lab staff, maintains SOPs, calibrates instruments, analyzes results, and partners with Animal Care, Veterinary, and Maintenance to support animal health and operational excellence.