First Shift O&M Supervisor

TITLE: First Shift O&M Supervisor

DEPARTMENT: Facilities

REPORTS TO: Director of Facilities, Life Support/Base Building Maintenance

STATUS: Full-time, Non-Exempt

PAY RATE: Starting at $35.00/hr.

LOCATION: On-site Required

Shift: Tuesday - Saturday, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

POSITION OVERVIEW:   

The O&M Supervisor is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day repair, maintenance, and installation of the building's mechanical, HVAC, electrical, and plumbing equipment that supports both the operation and maintenance of the Facilities team.  All conditions affecting building services, life safety of the guest, and aquatic Life. The O&M Supervisor will coordinate the daily work schedule of the team with the Directors of Operations and Maintenance for scheduling tasks that occur across the three shifts.  

The O&M Supervisor is responsible for overseeing both the operation and maintenance of the Aquarium's Life Support Systems and Base Building systems, including Security Components. This position ensures safe, efficient, and reliable facility performance while supporting animal health, guest safety, and overall operational excellence.

The O&M Supervisor manages daily work schedules for both maintenance and operations staff, coordinates preventive and corrective repairs, oversees building automation and energy usage, and ensures compliance with environmental and safety standards. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.   

• Demonstrate commitment to Shedd's vision, mission, and values. 
• Supervise and coordinate daily work schedules for both the Operations and Maintenance Teams, ensuring safe and efficient monitoring, operation, repair, and installation of all Life Support and Base Building equipment. 
• Manage preventive maintenance programs and service desk requests, ensuring work is completed with minimal disruption and proper follow-up. 
• Analyze energy and water usage data from utility systems and internal sub-meters; recommend and implement operational improvements to maximize efficiency while maintaining high standards of animal care and guest experience. 
• Provide oversight of building automation systems, ensuring optimal performance; recommend and obtain estimates for upgrades to improve efficiency and sustainability. 
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all repairs, preventive maintenance, and operational logs. 
• Coordinate facility projects, repairs, and construction with internal teams, external contractors, and other departments, ensuring minimal disruption to operations. 
• Support environmental quality monitoring and ensure parameters remain within designated levels for aquatic life and guest comfort. 
• Ensure proper staffing and coverage for 24/7 operations. 
• Oversee inventory of tools, equipment, and supplies; prepare purchase requests and monitor stock levels. 
• Recommend facility repairs, improvements, and capital projects for inclusion in the annual budget. 
• Participate in facility remodels, exhibit construction, and other long-term planning initiatives. 
• Cultivate and maintain a positive working environment with effective communication across staff, leadership, and volunteers. 
• Respond to emergencies and immediately recognize and address system shortcomings or failures. 

QUALIFICATIONS: The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. 

Education: Bachelor's degree or Physical Engineering license in Civil, Environmental or Mechanical Engineering preferred. Candidates with HVAC, Water Distribution or Water Treatment Certifications are considered. 

Experience:   

• 5+ years of experience in aquarium, zoo, or equivalent facility/plant engineering and filtration systems. 
• Strong knowledge of hydraulics, mechanical/electrical systems, HVAC, fluid handling/pumping, and life support operations. 
• Experience with building automation systems and energy/resource management. 
• Ability to effectively collaborate with staff at all levels and external partners. 
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Microsoft 365, BAS (Building Automation Systems), and Preventive Maintenance Software. 
• Ability to interpret complex technical instructions and prepare clear reports and correspondence. 

Physical Demands 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. 

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. 
• Sit, stand, stoop, and walk as required. 

Work Environment 

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those and employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. 

The employee may be exposed to: 

• Water, heat, cold, air particles, and smoke 
• Falling material, electrical shock, hazardous chemicals, and fire 
• Emergency vehicle traffic and variable noise levels (low to loud) 

BENEFITS OF WORKING AT SHEDD: We offer competitive compensation packages and opportunities for professional growth within our organization. 

• 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 

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  

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. 

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