SUMMARY:  The Life Support Systems and Facilities Coordinator is responsible for managing all aspects of sea turtle life support systems (approximately 75% of duties) and coordinating routine facilities maintenance and minor repairs (approximately 25%). This role ensures that aquatic systems, buildings, and infrastructure operate safely, efficiently, and in support of optimal sea turtle rehabilitation outcomes.

The Coordinator performs hands-on technical work, supervises volunteers and interns, coordinates contractors, monitors water quality, maintains accurate records, and responds to emergencies. This position is not an animal care role, but it is integral to the health, safety, and rehabilitation of sea turtles and the effective operation of the organization.

RESPONSIBILITIES – Life Support Systems Management (75%):

Systems Management:

• Manage all aspects of the sea turtle life support systems (LSS) and related components. Currently includes 21 rehabilitation tanks totaling 25,000 gal, and nine individual LSS.
• Ensure safe and proper operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of biological, mechanical, and chemical aquatic filtration systems. Systems currently include an ozone generator, bead filters, carbon filters, UV sterilization, protein fractionators, pumps, and heater/chillers.
• Perform and oversee routine LSS activities such as mixing salt water; replacing pumps; repairing pipes; disinfecting tanks between turtles; and setting up, operating, and/or removing temporary filtration systems.
• Develop, update, follow, and enforce safety protocols, preventative maintenance schedules, and emergency response protocols.
• Maintain accurate daily system logs, equipment records, temperature logs, and water quality documentation.
• Identify and implement improvement projects to enhance system efficiency, reliability, and animal welfare.

Water Quality Testing & Monitoring:

• Conduct routine water quality analysis on all systems.
• Perform daily, weekly, and monthly testing of salinity, temperature, pH, nitrites, nitrates, ammonia, and coliforms using the Waterlink system and other testing tools.
• Interpret data, identify trends or concerns, and communicate findings to rehabilitation staff.
• Maintain accurate and complete water quality records.

Equipment Maintenance & Troubleshooting:

• Isolate and troubleshoot faulty LSS equipment including pumps, pipes, ozone generation systems, filters, protein skimmers, etc.
• Perform routine and minor repairs and maintenance, including LSS-related plumbing (e.g., cutting, fitting, and installing PVC pipe); minor electrical work (e.g., replacing pumps); and fiberglass patching and repair.
• Coordinate with vendors and contractors for specialized repairs, routine maintenance, and site visits.
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas.

Supply & Inventory Management:

• Order marine salt, coordinate delivery, offload and store pallets.
• Maintain inventory of replacement equipment (e.g., pumps, probes) and routine LSS supplies (e.g., brushes, nets).
• Anticipate supply needs to ensure uninterrupted system operation.

Emergency Response:

• Be available for on-call response to after-hours emergencies via phone or in person.
• Respond immediately to system failures that could impact animal health.
• Take appropriate action to protect sea turtles during emergencies.

Collaboration & Communication:

• In collaboration with the Rehabilitation Manager, monitor health and behavior changes of current patients as they relate to the life support systems.
• Communicate water quality status and system performance to rehabilitation staff.
• Assist with special projects including large renovation or infrastructure projects.
• Build partnerships and collaborations that support best practices in LSS management.

RESPONSIBILITIES – FACILITIES (25%)

Building & Property Maintenance:

• Perform routine building maintenance and minor repairs.
• Conduct regular facility safety inspections.
• Perform basic plumbing repairs of non-LSS equipment.
• Conduct minor electrical work and troubleshooting.
• Change HVAC filters and monitor basic system performance.
• Maintain cleanliness and functionality of intern housing and shared spaces.

Contractor Coordination:

• Coordinate with contractors for specialized facilities work.
• Obtain quotes for major repairs and improvements.
• Oversee contractor timelines, work quality, and site access.
• Serve as on-site contact during contractor visits.
• Maintain relationships with service providers (HVAC, plumbing, electrical).

Property, Grounds, and Equipment:

• Monitor grounds and facilities for safety hazards.
• Coordinate basic grounds maintenance or contractor service as needed.
• Ensure parking and access areas remain safe and functional.
• Operate a forklift to move supplies and equipment.
• Maintain inventory of facilities tools and supplies.

Note: The organization maintains established contractor relationships and budgets for complex facilities work. This role focuses on routine maintenance and coordination of professional services.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Volunteer & Intern Supervision:

• Manage and expand a reliable team of life support system and water quality volunteers (the “Water Team”).
• Establish and manage a team of Facilities volunteers.
• Train, supervise, and schedule volunteers, interns, and others working in the LSS and/or facilities area.
• Ensure volunteers and interns follow SOPs and safety protocols.
• Supervise interns and volunteer projects related to LSS or facilities.
• Develop relationships with area colleges and community colleges to support intern and volunteer pipelines.

Other:

• Give educational presentations to volunteers, interns, visitors, and others regarding life support systems and their importance to sea turtle rehabilitation.
• Support the KBSTRRC mission by participating in organizational programs and events.
• Assist the Executive Director, Board, Rehabilitation Manager, and Animal Care Teams with special projects such as large renovation projects. Identify LSS problems and suggest possible solutions.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Associates degree (minimum) or Bachelor’s degree (preferred) in a related field.
• Minimum two years of experience working with LSS in a marine animal rehabilitation, aquarium, or similar setting. Must have experience with ozone.
• Practical lab experience utilizing water quality analytical equipment to test salt water.
• Plumbing and mechanical skills, including PVC pipe cutting and fitting.
• Valid (or able to obtain) North Carolina Driver’s License.
• Proficiency in standard office computer software (Microsoft Office, Google Workplace).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with staff, volunteers, board members, and contractors.
• Preferred: AALSO Level 1 (or higher) Life Support Operator and/or Water Quality Technician.
  Acceptable: Willingness to become certified within 18 months of employment.

ADA Requirements:

• Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds up to a height of 4 feet daily.
• Ability to lift (with assistance) 100 pounds to a height of 4 feet occasionally.
• Ability and stamina to remain on your feet all day.
• Ability to tolerate a loud, hot, humid, and wet environment.
• Ability to climb ladders, balance while cleaning equipment, and work on uneven floors.
• Ability to tolerate strong odors including cleaning products, seafood, and animal waste.
• Work is often unsupervised and may occur outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Disclaimer: This job description outlines the general nature and level of work expected and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties. Responsibilities may change based on organizational needs.

Visit https://www.seaturtlehospital.org/career-opportunities.html for more information and a complete job description.