Life Support Systems Technician

Position Title: Life Support Systems Technician (LSS Tech)  

Department: Ectotherm

Supervisor: LSS Manager

Nashville Zoo Mission:

Nashville Zoo is dedicated to inspiring a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation, and leadership. With a diverse collection of animals and a commitment to wildlife preservation, we provide engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.

Why Work with Us:

At Nashville Zoo, we believe in taking care of our team just as well as we care for our animals. Full-time employees enjoy a robust benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and future:

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage – including medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you and your family healthy.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – confidential support services for mental, emotional, and financial well-being.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching – helping you build a secure future while you make a meaningful impact today.
• Generous paid time off and sick leave – because rest and recovery are vital.
• Exclusive zoo perks – enjoy discounts on park experiences, retail, and food services, plus complimentary membership benefits.
• A collaborative and inclusive culture – be part of a diverse team where your voice matters, your growth is nurtured, and collaboration thrives across all departments.
• AZA-accredited facility – Nashville Zoo is committed to top-tier animal care, ethics and global conservation efforts.

Description:   

Under general supervision, the Life Support Systems (LSS) Technician will execute a diverse array of tasks within the Ectotherm Department at the Nashville Zoo. The primary responsibilities include maintaining and repairing filtration systems for all aquatic animal exhibits, off-exhibit tanks, and adjacent areas. The role also involves performing light exhibit construction, operating zoo vehicles, and ensuring the integrity of existing exhibits and aquatic plant life. Additionally, the LSS Technician may engage in public education through keeper talks and impromptu educational sessions, while ensuring a clean and safe environment for visitors to enjoy the Nashville Zoo.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Monitor assigned filtration systems and aquatic habitats.

• Test and maintain proper water quality parameters per species requirements.

• Maintain regular and reliable attendance

• Maintain professional conduct at all times and consistently model the organization’s values in all interactions with colleagues, guests, and stakeholders.

• Perform plumbing repairs and pump maintenance.

• Vacuum ponds.

• Operate a variety of light and medium equipment.

• Maintain filtration logbooks.

• Clean animal exhibits, pools, off-exhibit enclosures, and service areas.

• Clean and disinfect utensils, work tools, and containers.

• Participate in keeper talks designed to educate the public about the Aquatics Department’s animal collection.

• Respond to questions from the public concerning the animals and exhibits.

Qualifications-

Skills:

General knowledge of:

• Filtration and water chemistry
• Ability to self-direct work tasks while ensuring safety and productivity.
• Plumbing and pump mechanics
• Safety practices around exotic and domestic animals
• Animal biology or zoology or another related field
• Techniques for maintaining water quality.

Capable of:

• Fully executing the responsibilities detailed in the “Duties and Responsibilities” section.
• Monitoring animal behavior and addressing water quality issues.
• Operating motorized vehicles and equipment; a valid driver’s license is required.
• Following work instructions accurately.
• Collaborating effectively in a team-oriented environment.
• Communicating efficiently with coworkers and supervisors.
• Interacting and engaging with the public in a professional manner.

Education/ Experience:

• Zoology, animal biology, animal husbandry or related field beneficial, and experience with plumbing, pool maintenance, or pump rebuilding beneficial. Experience with LSS equipment or any equivalent combination of training and experience, which provides the required work skills, knowledge, and abilities to do this job.
• Applicants must possess a valid driver’s license.

Physical Responsibilities:

• The role requires frequently standing and walking for most of an 8–10‑hour shift and regularly bend, kneel, reach, and perform repetitive motions while cleaning habitats, preparing diets, and providing enrichment.
• The role requires frequently lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling up to 50 lbs and occasionally up to 75 lbs with assistance, as well as navigating ladders, stairs, uneven terrain, and wet or slippery surfaces.
• Strong hand dexterity, clear verbal communication, and adequate vision and hearing are essential to safely observe animals, operate tools and gates, and use radios.
• Work occurs indoors and outdoors year‑round in all weather, with routine exposure to animal dander, hay, dust, insects, loud noises, strong odors, and cleaning agents.
• Employees may encounter biological hazards, zoonotic diseases, and potentially dangerous animals and must follow established protocols for shifting, feeding, and emergency response.
• The role may require wearing PPE such as gloves, protective footwear, eye and hearing protection, and respirators as assigned.
• Schedules often include early mornings, weekends, holidays, and occasional overtime based on animal needs.
• Depending on assignments, a valid driver’s license and ability to operate facility vehicles may be required.
• Vaccinations, TB testing, or respirator fit testing may be necessary per policy.
• The role must learn new tasks, remember processes, maintain focus, complete task independently, and make timely decisions in the context of a workflow.

Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time position, averaging 40 hours per week.
• Must be able to periodically adjust schedule as needed.
• Must be available to work weekends.

Pre-employment requirements:

Nashville Zoo is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and maintains a drug-free work environment. All employment is at-will.

• All candidates are required to successfully complete a criminal background check and drug screening prior to hire.
• Pre-employment and annual tuberculosis (TB) screenings are a condition of continued employment.

Pay Range$16.10—$17.10 USD