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Animal Life Support Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

houstonzoo

Life Support Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

Working closely with Water Quality and Animal Care teams, the Life Support Operator responds to system alarms, conducts routine inspections and preventative maintenance, and makes technical ...

houstonzoo

Life Support Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

Working closely with Water Quality and Animal Care teams, the Life Support Operator responds to system alarms, conducts routine inspections and preventative maintenance, and makes technical ...

ODYSEA AQUARIUM LLC

Animal Care Specialist I

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

As a member of the Animal Care team, you will inspire and lead by example by being patient, kind ... Develop skills with design, development, and construction of new exhibits and/or life support ...

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Animal Life Support Engineering information

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$16

$39

$68

How much do animal life support engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal life support engineering in the United States is $39.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.57 and $46.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Animal Life Support Engineers when maintaining aquatic systems in research or zoological settings?

Animal Life Support Engineers often encounter challenges related to maintaining precise water quality parameters, ensuring the reliability of pumps and filtration systems, and responding quickly to system malfunctions to safeguard animal health. Working in research or zoological environments means collaborating closely with veterinary and animal care teams, often requiring quick troubleshooting and adaptation to diverse species’ needs. Staying up-to-date with evolving technology and regulatory standards is also essential to proactively prevent issues and support animal welfare.

What is Animal Life Support Engineering?

Animal Life Support Engineering focuses on designing, operating, and maintaining systems that provide the necessary environmental conditions for animals in facilities like aquariums, zoos, and research labs. These systems regulate water quality, temperature, oxygen levels, and filtration to ensure animal health and welfare. Professionals in this field work with a combination of mechanical, biological, and chemical processes to simulate natural habitats and meet regulatory standards. Their expertise is critical for sustaining diverse species in captivity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animal Life Support Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Life Support Engineer, you need strong knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, combined with a degree in engineering or a related field. Experience with life support control systems, water quality monitoring tools, and certifications such as Certified Aquatic Life Support Operator (CALSO) are highly valued. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure optimal animal welfare, regulatory compliance, and the safe, efficient operation of aquatic and zoological life support systems.

What is the difference between Animal Life Support Engineering vs Animal Care Technician?

AspectAnimal Life Support EngineeringAnimal Care Technician
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in animal systemsHigh school diploma, animal care certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, specialized animal habitatsZoos, veterinary clinics, animal shelters
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech companiesAnimal shelters, veterinary practices
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on designing and maintaining animal support systemsFocuses on daily animal care and health monitoring

Animal Life Support Engineering involves designing and maintaining systems that ensure animals' environmental needs are met in research or captive settings, requiring engineering expertise. In contrast, Animal Care Technicians focus on daily animal health, feeding, and cleaning tasks. Both roles are essential in animal-related industries but differ significantly in credentials, work environment, and responsibilities.

Infographic showing various Animal Life Support Engineering job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $82,930 per year, or $39.9 per hour.
Automation Specialist (Water Quality/ Animal Life Support)

Automation Specialist (Water Quality/ Animal Life Support)

SeaWorld

San Antonio, TX

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

At SeaWorld, we're passionate about caring for animals. In fact, we've already rescued over 40,000 animals (and counting!). And we can save you from being stuck in just another job. Join us and help bring joy, excitement, and lasting memories to people from around the world. We're seeking enthusiastic, dedicated, and hard-working individuals to become our Ambassadors. Join us and play an important part on our incredible team!

What you get to do:

  • Monitor, operate, and maintain all controls, instrumentation, and support equipment integral to the animal life support systems and the water treatment facilities.
  • Enthusiastically represents SeaWorld by displaying a positive attitude, high level of energy and commitment to quality throughout all aspects of the job.
  • Perform inspections and maintenance on a daily basis on instrumentation and support equipment.
  • Tests, troubleshoots, repairs and performs preventive maintenance on a variety of low and medium voltage industrial electrical systems, components, motors and machinery; rebuilds equipment to manufacturer's specifications.
  • Install and replace instrumentation support equipment.
  • Maintain department tools on a daily basis.
  • Installs conduits, wires, pull boxes required in making additions, extensions or alterations in electrical systems.
  • Installs, maintains, repairs and calibrates a wide variety of electronic recording and indicating instruments.
  • Schedules, coordinates, supervises, inspects and participates in the work of personnel engaged in cleaning, maintaining and repairing of all life support equipment and surrounding areas.
  • Ensure excellent customer service by responding to customer requirements, expectations, and needs.
  • Occasionally assist other locations and areas in the park as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.

What it takes to succeed:

  • At least 18 years of age.
  • Associate degree (A.A) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school.
  • Minimum of two years' experience at a Level II, in addition to three years related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Valid state driver's license: visiting students and military must have valid driver's license from state.
  • of residency and able to provide a copy of the DMV report.
  • Able to read and understand electrical/electronic schematics.
  • Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
  • Ability to speak effectively before groups of guests and team members.
  • Strong written/verbal communication skills
  • Handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced work environment.
  • Able to regularly lift/move up to 25 lbs and occasionally lift/move up to 50 lbs.
  • Regularly required to stand and walk for extended periods of time. Occasionally required to sit, climb, balance and smell.
  • Work weekends, holidays, early mornings and late evenings.

Compensation: $18.00 per hour

The perks of the position:

  • Paid Time Off
  • Complimentary Park Tickets and Passes
  • Park Discounts on Food and Merchandise
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401K Retirement plan
  • Voluntary Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Disability Benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Dependent and Health Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Legal Assistance Plan

EEO Employer:

SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, PREGNANCY, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR COVERED VETERAN STATUS.

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