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.

POSITION OVERVIEW: 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.   

Hands-on Dive Operations (32–36 hours per week) 

• 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.  

Program Support (4–8 hours per week) 

• 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. 

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

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

• 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 management, and interdepartmental business operations. 

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities: 

• Proficient in record-keeping and dive management software. 
• Strong problem-solving abilities with a focus on critical thinking in a dynamic environment. 
• Ability to work extended periods in field settings, including multiple consecutive days aboard research vessels such as the Coral Reef II, with flexibility to adapt to changing operational conditions and schedules. 
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and collaborative teamwork skills.
• Flexibility to work weekends, holidays, and adjust schedules as needed. 
• Commitment to Shedd's mission, vision, and values, with a passion for conservation. 

Licenses/Certifications: 

• Must possess a valid driver's license or can obtain one within 6 months from the start of employment. 
• Must possess a valid passport or can obtain one within 6 months from the start of employment. 
• Must possess a current Rescue Diver certification or higher from a nationally recognized SCUBA training agency. Dive Master certification is preferred. Employment is contingent upon successfully passing a dive physical and Shedd Aquarium's diver checkout and evaluation process. 
• Preferred qualifications include CPR, First Aid, and Emergency O2 Instructor certification, Visual Cylinder Inspection certification, and manufacturer-specific diving equipment technician certifications. 

Physical Readiness: 

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. 

• Lift up to 40 pounds  
• Sit 
• Stand 
• Stoop 
• Kneel 
• Walk 
• Swim
• Hear  

Working Environment: 

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

This person may be exposed to: 

• Water 
• Heat 
• Cold 
• Hazardous Chemicals 
• Low noise 
• Moderate Noise 
• Loud Noise 

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 [email protected]. 

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.