Life Support Internship

POINT DEFIANCE ZOO & AQUARIUM

is the only combined zoo and aquarium in the Pacific Northwest. The 29-acre zoological park was established in 1905, and attracts over 800,000 visitors a year. It is nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), which ensures rigorously high standards of animal welfare, veterinary care, conservation, education and more. The Zoo sits within 700-acre Point Defiance Park, offering spectacular views of Mount Rainier, the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. Point Defiance Zoo is operated by Parks Tacoma. For more information, visit www.pdza.org . Our Life Support Internship is designed to provide interns with practical, hands-on learning opportunities in the field of life support and water quality of animals in human care. The internship is designed to provide instruction in operation and maintenance of a variety of life support systems, management of water quality sensors, and monitoring of complex electronic control systems. Essential Duties The Life Support Internship provides practical, hands-on learning opportunities in the following areas: Life Support Equipment The types of life support equipment The function of different types of equipment LSS equipment maintenance Operate equipment and learn how to optimize utilization Water Quality 1. Water quality parameters and what they mean 2. Cleaning and calibration of water quality sensors 3. Types of sensors Life Support Systems Fresh and marine life support systems Closed and open systems Quarantine system protocols Cold and warm water systems Documentation and Safety Reading P&ID and spec sheets LSS design Reading and writing SOPs Daily record keeping MSDS Monitoring and Control Systems Operation of control panels and operating software Troubleshooting of automated Basic electronics Minimum Qualifications We are committed to finding the best overall candidate and welcome candidates who may come from less traditional backgrounds. Please consider the breadth of your life experience when interpreting our listed duties and qualifications. Must be 18 years or older with a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent certification. Must have relevant experience or academic training in biology, zoology, or engineering, gained through paid, unpaid, volunteer, or academic work. Have a demonstrated interest in pursuing a career in a Zoo or Aquarium field. T his is an in-depth program requiring a 40 hour per week commitment, for a minimum of 12 weeks. Eligible candidates must b e able to commit to 40 hours each week for 12 weeks.

Additional Information Physical Demands:

Interns must be capable of the following physical requirements: Lifting and carrying heavy objects or animals weighing up to 50 pounds. Pushing, climbing, walking, kneeling and crouching to work with and feed animals. Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate specialized equipment and tools.

Hazards:

Exposure to potentially dangerous and sick animals. Exposure to animal bodily fluids/products. Chemicals, fumes, odors, poor ventilation and noise. Contact with dissatisfied visitors.

Environment:

Indoor and outdoor environment throughout the year Adverse weather conditions. Cold water while interacting with animals and cleaning exhibits. Confined or dark work areas.