Assistant Dive Safety Officer

TITLE:

Assistant Dive Safety Officer

DEPARTMENT:
Dive Operations

REPORTS TO:

Director of Dive Operations

STATUS:
Full-time, Non-Exempt

SALARY: $30.00 - $35.00/hour

LOCATION:

Onsite - Chicago, IL.

The Assistant Dive Safety Officer supports the safe and effective execution of Aquarium and field diving operations through the maintenance of dive facilities, equipment, and administrative processes. Working under the guidance of the Director of Dive Operations/Dive Safety Officer (DSO) and Supervisor of Dive Operations, the ADSO assists with implementing dive policies, procedures, and training activities while partnering with teams across Shedd to meet operational needs and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and professional diving standards.

The ADSO develops technical knowledge and operational experience while supporting the day-to-day functions of the dive program.

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.

• Assist with the execution of safe and effective Aquarium and field diving operations.
• Assist with implementing dive safety protocols, procedures, and operational activities.
• Participate in exhibit maintenance, scientific, conservation, and field diving activities requiring SCUBA.
• Function as a tender or Dive Person in Charge (DPIC) as qualified and assigned.
• Perform preventative maintenance, inspection, cleaning, and organization of dive equipment and facilities.
• Assist with emergency response drills and maintain operational readiness of emergency equipment.
• Ensure safe and animal-sensitive execution of dive operations while identifying and communicating operational hazards.
• Participate in public interactions, behind-the-scenes tours, media opportunities, and guest education as requested.
• Assist Animal Care and Animal Health staff with underwater animal care activities as directed.

• Support the maintenance of high industry standards for Aquarium dive operations.
• Assist with scheduling, onboarding, and coordination of staff and volunteer divers.
• Maintain accurate equipment, maintenance, training, and dive records.
• Support training activities, equipment maintenance, and dive safety initiatives under the direction of the DSO and other dive operations team members
• Assist with inventory management, supply orders, and departmental reporting.
• Support compliance with accreditation standards and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with Aquarium departments to support operational diving needs.
• Participate in weekly team meetings and operational planning sessions.
• Other duties as assigned.

Bachelor's degree in marine biology, zoology, animal science, or a related field, or demonstrated equivalent knowledge.

• Experience in scientific diving, aquarium operations, or animal care is preferred but not required.
• Working knowledge of AAUS, OSHA, AZA, and other applicable diving regulations, or the ability to quickly learn and apply regulatory requirements, dive policies, procedures, and industry best practices.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment, manage multiple priorities, exercise sound judgment during dive operations, and communicate professionally with staff, volunteers, and guests.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs.
• Proficiency in the use of animal management software such as Dive Program in the Cloud (DPiC).
• Ability to learn multiple software applications for accounting, employee…