1st Shift Operations & Maintenance Specialist II - Aquarium Systems

TITLE: 1st Shift Operations & Maintenance Specialist II - Aquarium Systems
DEPARTMENT: Facilities
REPORTS TO: Manager, Base Building & Life Support
STATUS : Full-Time, Non-Exempt
PAY RATE : $27.00 - $33.00/hour

We’re looking for technically skilled, curious, and dependable people to join our Operations & Maintenance team. This is a unique opportunity to apply your mechanical, electrical, or facility maintenance experience in an aquarium environment, directly supporting the systems that keep our animals, staff, and guests safe. 

What You’ll Do  

As an O&M Specialist, you’ll: 

• Operate & maintain critical systems – including HVAC, boilers, pumps, life support systems, valves, filters, and other facility equipment. 
• Work with water quality – perform water transfers, backwash filters, mix salt, and test water chemistry to ensure healthy aquatic environments. 
• Troubleshoot & repair – perform preventive maintenance, diagnose issues, and assist with mechanical/electrical repairs across the building. 
• Collaborate & support – partner with operators, exhibit teams, and other staff to plan equipment downtime, respond to urgent issues, and support special events. 
• Ensure safety & reliability – follow protocols for handling hazardous materials, maintain a safe workspace, and help keep systems running smoothly 24/7. 

Schedule 

• 1st Shift: 7:00 am – 3:00 pm, Tuesday through Saturday 
• Training: First 2 weeks on 1st Shift (M–F) for onboarding 

What We’re Looking For 

• High school diploma or equivalent required 
• 2+ years of experience in industrial, facility, or equipment maintenance (mechanical, electrical, or plumbing) 
• 1+ years of experience in mechanical maintenance or electrical system maintenance and repair
• Water quality, water chemistry, or life support system experience is a plus (but not required; we’ll train the right candidate) 
• Comfortable using tools, troubleshooting equipment, and working in hands-on environments 
• Ability to lift up to 75 lbs., climb ladders, and work in varied conditions (heat, cold, humidity, noise) 

Why You’ll Love This Job 

• Be part of a team that supports the care of animals and exhibits seen by millions of visitors each year 
• Gain specialized training in life support systems and water quality unique to aquariums 
• Opportunities for growth into more advanced technical roles 
• Competitive pay, free parking, and full benefits (see below) 

BENEFITS OF WORKING AT SHEDD : 

• Medical Insurance, including FSA and HSA plan options
• Vision and Dental Insurance 
• Accrued Paid Time Off 
• Up to 12 Paid Holidays 
• Life Insurance 
• Parental Leave and Adoption Assistance
• 401(k)
• Discounted Parking and Public Transit Subsidies
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Wellness program, including Preventive Care Incentive 
• Employee Discounts
• Employee Tickets
• AALSO Certification (After 1 Year) 

Reasonable Accommodations:
Shedd Aquarium is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need reasonable accommodations for any part of the employment process, please email us at View email address on click.appcast.io. 

We strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ community, veterans and active duty military, parents, individuals with disabilities, and individuals from all cultural backgrounds to apply. Shedd Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team.