HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION
The Senior Water Laboratory Technician is responsible for water testing all critical aquatic systems of the San Diego Zoo. The Position works closely with the Water Quality System Operators and Wildlife Care Team members to facilitate healthy environments for our diverse living collection and our guests. This position performs essential job functions in accordance with the standards of accrediting bodies, including Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and County of San Diego Department of Environmental Health and Quality. This position maintains and calibrates all water analytical equipment that is necessary to complete water testing. The Senior Water Laboratory Technician reports to the Construction and Maintenance Manager (Water Quality).

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Analyzes and interprets water samples from marine and freshwater aquatic systems.
• Obtains water samples from marine/freshwater aquatic systems and performs tests in the field that are time sensitive.
• Maintains water quality analytical equipment including calibration, standardizing solution, increasing accuracy and clarification of equipment issues.
• Follows established safety practices and maintains Safety Data Sheets. Decontaminates and disposes of hazardous wastes.
• Maintains data records for AZA inspections.
• Operates complex computer programs.
• Maintains a variety of contacts in order to respond to inquiries and requests. Effectively coordinates activates with Animal Care Specialists.
• Prepares and maintains the biological life support for aquatic systems

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Seeking a qualified applicant with experience analyzing and interpreting water samples from marine and freshwater systems. Technical water chemistry and experience with advanced water testing equipment are necessary. This position will require working outdoors and working with hazardous chemicals. Selected candidates will work mostly in their specific craft but may be expected to assist other departments with aquatic habitat maintenance. This position requires completion of a physical ability test.

JOB EXPERIENCE

• 2+ years of experience working in a water quality laboratory required.
• 2+ years of experience working with HACH and IDEXX water testing equipment required.

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree in related field preferred.
• AALSO- Water Quality Technician Level 2 Upon Hire preferred.
• AALSO- Life Support Systems Level 1 Upon Hire preferred.

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

• Able to use technical lab equipment.
• Ability to accurately record data.
• Demonstrate high aptitude and attention to detail.
• Able to maintain clear, concise lab notes and records.
• Able to effectively communicate (verbal and written).
• Able to operate complex computer software programs.
• Able to work effectively with others in a diverse environment.

SOME OF THE PERKS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER

• Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Family Passes
• Complimentary Tickets
• Free Parking at the San Diego Zoo & San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Local and In-House Discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness Program

IMPORTANT DETAILS

• Location: San Diego, CA
• Position Type: Hourly Full-Time Non-Exempt Position
• Hourly Rate: $29.34

Fraudulent Recruiting
Beware of fraudulent recruiting. Legitimate San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance contacts will use an @sdzwa.org email address. We do not request money, checks, equipment orders, or sensitive personal data during the recruitment process. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance only conducts interviews via phone, Zoom, Teams or in-person.

If you have been asked for any of the above, or believe you have been contacted by someone posing as a San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance employee, please e-mail sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org.  If you feel that you have been the victim of fraud, please contact your financial institution(s) immediately.

Be an ally for wildlife by joining our team!

At San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, we thrive on celebrating our differences. Diversity is vital for the benefit of our team members, our guests, our community, and our wildlife.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.

If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, please email your request to sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org and provide the job title and location to which you are applying.

As a Federal Contractor, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is required to participate in the E-Verify Program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States. We are not offering sponsorship for this position at this time.

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a drug free workplace.