Mechanical Systems Operator (Contract, Full-Time)

SUMMARY:

Reporting to the Assistant Manager, Mechanical Systems, the Mechanical Systems Operator works on a team responsible for the assembly, operation and maintenance of animal habitats and life support systems, HVAC, water, sewer, natural and propane gas, and control systems. The Mechanical Systems Operator performs hands-on mechanical assembly, maintenance and repair in conjunction with animal care staff and related departments. This is a physically demanding job that requires stamina, strength, flexibility and mobility and a working knowledge of all the Aquarium’s mechanical systems.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Operation and maintenance of life support systems to ensure that processes run efficiently by:

• Operating systems related to animal life support, animal habitats, water and sewer, HVAC, building and fire suppression and alarm systems
• Assisting with a wide variety of general and specialized maintenance and repairs including plumbing, pipe fitting, mechanical repairs, new exhibit construction, and custom fabrication using a wide range of materials
• Inspecting, maintaining and rebuilding motors and pumps and other machinery associated with animal life support and building systems
• Draining and re-filling pools and reservoirs to facilitate maintenance and repairs
• Removing, dismantling, repairing and reassembling filters and related filtration equipment
• Monitoring water quality in main animal life support systems for temperature, salinity, pH, chlorine levels, clarity and other water quality parameters
• Working closely with animal care staff to ensure animal health
• Maintaining cleanliness of workshop and other work areas
• Completing other related duties as assigned

Promotes health and safety by:

• Receiving, distributing and storing inventory of various controlled products as required by WHMIS regulations
• Supporting on-call rotation and responding to emergencies on a 24-hour basis as required
• Participating in emergency response drills and training
• Following Vancouver Aquarium health and safety standards
• Abiding by Vancouver Aquarium organizational policies and procedures

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and experience

• Preferred - aquatic animal life support system operator experience
• Aquarium mechanical systems operation or equivalent trade experience
• Experience in one or more of the following trades: plumber (preferred), millwright, power engineer, HVAC mechanic, water treatment operator, certified pool operator, welder, machinist or custom fabricator
• Water treatment and testing experience (salinity, pH, chlorine, clarity, temperature, etc.) an asset, but training provided if required
• Fall protection training, and aerial work platforms an asset, but training provided if required
• Confined space entry and/or rescue certification an asset, but training provided if required
• Forklift and pallet jack operator an asset, but training provided if required

Technical competencies

• Excellent problem solving and troubleshooting
• Strong English language written and verbal communication
• Friendly and collaborative customer service skills
• Ability to multitask and establish priorities
• Ability to work both as part of a team and independently
• Working knowledge of Microsoft 365 software suite

Working conditions

• Requirement to work one weekend day per shift and be flexible if shift changes are required due to operational or staffing adjustments
• Ability to regularly lift and carry up to 40kg
• Ability to stand while performing most duties
• Exposure to substances and environments that require use of personal protective equipment including but not limited to properly fitted respirators, eye and ear protection, gloves, coveralls, hard hat, harness, etc.
• Must be available to respond to emergencies outside of scheduled hours on a rotating basis
• Must be comfortable working near animals
• Frequent exposure to wet, humid, hot or cold environments and slippery and uneven surfaces
• Working with or near industrial machinery
• Occasional work in confined spaces and at heights over 3m, and with SCBA

SALARY RANGE: $30 - $40 per hour