Life Support Systems
Life Support Systems (LSS) are the essential equipment and processes that keep aquatic animals healthy in aquariums and marine parks. Think of them like a giant home aquarium filter system, but much more complex. These systems handle important tasks like cleaning the water, maintaining proper temperature, and ensuring the right chemical balance - basically everything needed to recreate ocean or freshwater conditions. When someone lists LSS experience on their resume, they're saying they know how to operate, maintain, or design these crucial systems that keep marine life alive and healthy in human-made environments.
Examples in Resumes
Managed daily operations of Life Support Systems for a 500,000-gallon aquarium exhibit
Maintained and troubleshot LSS equipment including filters, protein skimmers, and ozone systems
Supervised a team of 5 Life Support technicians responsible for water quality management
Designed and implemented new Life Support System protocols for quarantine facilities
Typical job title: "Life Support System Operators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Life Support System Operators
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a major system failure in a large exhibit during peak hours?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate leadership, crisis management, and deep technical knowledge. They should mention backup systems, emergency protocols, staff coordination, and visitor safety considerations.
Q: Describe your experience with designing or upgrading life support systems.
Expected Answer: Should show understanding of system design, budget management, and ability to plan long-term projects while maintaining daily operations. Look for mention of coordination with vendors and other departments.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What parameters do you monitor daily in an aquarium system and why?
Expected Answer: Should mention basic water quality parameters like temperature, pH, salinity, and ammonia levels. Look for understanding of why each parameter matters and normal ranges.
Q: How do you troubleshoot poor water quality issues?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate systematic approach to problem-solving, knowledge of different filtration components, and understanding of chemical testing procedures.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What safety procedures do you follow when handling pool chemicals?
Expected Answer: Should show basic understanding of chemical safety, proper protective equipment use, and emergency procedures.
Q: Describe the basic components of a life support system.
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic filtration types (mechanical, chemical, biological) and common equipment like pumps and filters in simple terms.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic water quality testing
- Equipment monitoring
- Safety procedures
- Record keeping
Mid (2-5 years)
- System troubleshooting
- Preventive maintenance
- Water chemistry management
- Equipment repair
Senior (5+ years)
- System design and planning
- Team management
- Budget oversight
- Emergency response coordination
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience with water quality testing
- Lack of understanding of basic water chemistry
- Poor documentation habits
- No experience with emergency protocols
Related Terms
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