Back to search
Life Support Systems Technician (Assistant, Technician, and Senior Levels)
Department:Â Environmental Quality / Life Support
Reports to:Â Manager of Life Support Systems
Classification:Â Full-Time, Non-Exempt
Job Overview:Â 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 for All Levels:
- 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.
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:Â 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:Â 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:Â 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.
Benefits:
Full-time positions qualify for medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus supplemental accident, hospital indemnity, critical illness, long-term disability, and life insurance. The Aquarium provides short-term disability and basic life and AD&D at no cost. All positions are 401(k) eligible.
This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Employment with this organization is at-will, meaning either the employee or the organization may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, subject to applicable laws. This organization is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities to enable them to perform the essential functions of this position. If you require an accommodation to complete an application, please contact (860) 572-5955 and ask to speak with the recruitment department. This position may require background checks and reference verification as part of the hiring process.
Learn more about this Employer on their Career Site
