Maintenance Technician II - Aquarium Systems; O&M Specialist II - 2nd Shift

John G Shedd Aquarium Maintenance Technician II - Aquarium Systems (O&M Specialist II - 2nd Shift)

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.

• 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.

• 2nd Shift: 3:00 pm - 11:00 pm, Sunday through Thursday
• Training: First 2 weeks on 1st Shift (M–F) for onboarding

• 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)

• 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  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.

John G Shedd Aquarium
1200 S DuSable Lk Shr Dr.
Chicago, IL 60605