Zoological Manager
Full Time • Santa Barbara
Are you an experienced keeper ready to take on a leadership role? The Santa Barbara Zoo is seeking a Zoological Manager to manage daily animal care operations, supervise Animal Care Supervisors and Keepers, and ensure the highest standards of animal welfare. Lead a dynamic team and contribute to wildlife conservation and education in a meaningful way!
Position Status: Regular, Full-Time, Salary, Exempt
Position Status: Regular, Full-Time, Salary, Exempt
Schedule: Sunday - Thursday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Compensation: $66,350- $69,850 per year, dependent on experience
*You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page in order to be considered for the position*
SUMMARY:
Under the general direction of the Director of Animal Care and the VP of Animal Care & Health, the Zoological Manager is responsible for managing daily animal care operations, optimizing animal care and wellbeing, ensuring the maintenance of exhibits, providing a positive guest experience, supervising Animal Care Supervisors and all Keeper positions, and assisting with animal population and departmental strategic initiatives. The Zoological Manager will be assigned to animal care zones based on departmental needs.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
Animal Care & Welfare:
*You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page in order to be considered for the position*
SUMMARY:
Under the general direction of the Director of Animal Care and the VP of Animal Care & Health, the Zoological Manager is responsible for managing daily animal care operations, optimizing animal care and wellbeing, ensuring the maintenance of exhibits, providing a positive guest experience, supervising Animal Care Supervisors and all Keeper positions, and assisting with animal population and departmental strategic initiatives. The Zoological Manager will be assigned to animal care zones based on departmental needs.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
Animal Care & Welfare:
- Manages the Animal Care Supervisors and provides leadership and operational coaching and mentoring, delegating operational supervisory tasks and assigning direct reports (Keepers) to the Animal Care Supervisor as appropriate.
- Manages and supports a team of Keepers in providing the highest standards of care to ensure the health and well-being of the animal collection
- Acts as a role model/leader in animal husbandry, health issues, and welfare
- Applies an understanding of animal husbandry, health, and welfare to determine animal management direction, including operational procedures
- Recognizes and determines the seriousness of abnormal behavior and medical conditions
- Recognizes the importance of animal welfare and is responsible for regularly assessing the welfare of animals through daily operations and population-level welfare assessments, including collation of assessments and completion of identified actions, and strives to optimize welfare for all animals under their care
- A member of the Animal Welfare Assessment Working Group, which meets quarterly to review assessments, evaluate the assessment process, and identify and address welfare concerns
- Confirms regular adherence to USDA Animal Welfare Act, regional, federal, and AZA standards associated with animal care and welfare
- Ensures that all animal husbandry and health duties are performed in the safest manner, following established standard operating guidelines (SOGs) and protocols
- Identifies specific animal husbandry/health problems and implements a systematic approach to solving the problem
- Communicates veterinary and animal husbandry information in a timely manner to the keeper team, Animal Care & Health team, and Senior Management staff
- Works collaboratively with the Veterinarians and Veterinary staff to ensure the highest level of medical care for the animals in the collection
- Works collaboratively with the Nutritionist to ensure optimal nutrition and feeding strategies for the animals in the collection
- Supports and promotes the Enriched Experiences and Animal Training Programs in order to advance the behavioral enrichment program
- Responsible for ensuring application of animal training to optimize care and welfare, identifies and prioritizes training goals, supports keepers in developing shaping and training plans, and collaborates with the animal training consultants to achieve training goals and advance the training program
- Responsible for ensuring application of enrichment and enriching experiences to optimize care and welfare, identifies and prioritizes enrichment goals, evaluates enrichment activity schedules & devices to determine effectiveness, and collaborates with enrichment consultants to achieve enrichment goals and advance the behavioral enrichment program
- Supports the Enriched Experiences Program in order to advance the behavioral enrichment program
- Collaborates with Animal Management Team to help develop and support the Ambassador Animal Program
- Collaborates with the Animal Care team and other zoo departments on exhibit/animal space modifications and enhancements, and designs new exhibits/animal spaces to optimize animal wellbeing and the guest experience
- Develops, reviews, and updates all applicable SOGs and protocols for animal husbandry and the Ambassador Animal Program
- Supports the goals of breeding programs for managed populations (SSPs) and may be assigned as an institutional representative for managed populations (SSPs)
- Knowledge of AZA accreditation standards and AZA animal programs
- Responsible for ensuring animal daily records are entered into the electronic recordkeeping system (ZIMS)
- Evaluates the content and completeness of daily records in the team area
- Collaborates with the Vice President of Animal Care & Health, Director of Animal Care, Animal Care staff, and other zoo departments to develop, review, and modify the animal population plan
- Collaborates with Animal Care & Health Managers to develop departmental goals and implement departmental strategic initiatives that align with organizational priorities and strategy
- • Collaborates effectively with other departments such as Education, Guest Services, Institutional Advancement, and Marketing to achieve the goals of the AC&H department and zoo-wide programs
- Other duties as assigned
Conservation & Science:
- Collaborates with the Conservation & Science department to support participation in local conservation programs and fieldwork opportunities
- Collaborates with the Director of Conservation & Science, Veterinarians, and the Director of Animal Care to fulfill institutionally approved research requests
- Supports in-house research activities and welfare studies
- Actively encourages and supports Keepers to participate in AZA animal programs (TAGs, SAGs, SSPs, SAFE programs, committees) and leads by example by supporting AZA animal programs, such as SSP coordinator, studbook keeper, TAG/ SAG/SAFE/other committee member or other
Emergency Situations:
- Acts as incident commander in animal escape situations or other emergency situations
- Responds to animal emergencies quickly and calculates risks involved for animals, guests, and staff
- Remains calm and creates an atmosphere of calm and control for those dealing with the emergency situation
- Utilizes emergency chemical immobilization as required
- Uses capture equipment when required
- Evaluates the impact of emergency or mock situations on all areas of the Zoo and suggests improvements to the emergency response systems
- Active participant in the Weapons Team
Guest Relations:
- Ensures exhibit presentation quality standards for cleanliness and maintenance to maximize our guest experience
- Responsibility for appropriate, well-maintained graphics and signage at exhibits
- Interacts with guests to assist and share information about animal care and wellbeing
- Responds to all guest inquiries, complaints, and comments according to Zoo guest relations procedures
- Develops and facilitates formal and informal educational programs
Staff Development:
- Supervises Animal Care Supervisors, Animal Care Keepers, Volunteers, and Interns, and/or performs duties of direct reports as needed
- Shares critical information, best practices, and procedures on a consistent basis with staff
- Participates regularly in training provided by the zoo and by external consultants/classes for the development of their leadership skills and for their direct reports, including but not limited to coaching, difficult conversations, providing feedback, conflict resolution, and time management
- Provides staff coaching and feedback on a regular basis to direct reports and coaches coworkers, volunteers, and interns, and provides informal feedback as needed
- Provides leadership coaching and development for Animal Care Supervisors
- Performs regular formal evaluations for staff
- Promotes a collaborative relationship across the whole AC&H department and with other zoo departments
- Provides staff training on animal handling, capture, restraint, animal training, enrichment, and animal welfare
- Collaborates with the Director of Animal Care to develop and implement professional development opportunities and plans for the Keepers that relate to animal care, animal welfare, animal training, behavioral enrichment, AZA programs, public relations, interpersonal skills, and leadership skills
- Proactively supports opportunities for the Keepers to contribute to conservation programs and participate in conservation fieldwork
- Encourages staff to present at scientific meetings/workshops/conferences, to give informal presentations, and to prepare scientific papers or articles for publication
- Collaborates with the Director of Animal Care in staff assessment, the hiring process, development of performance improvement plans, and termination processes
- Develops and facilitates the achievement of team goals in accordance with departmental and zoo goals
- Builds relationships and collaborates with peers at other AZA institutions
Operation & Business:
- Exemplifies the highest ethical standards to ensure the health and well-being of the animal collection
- Ensures that all regulatory standards are met, such as the USDA Animal Welfare Act, regional, federal, and AZA standards
- Manages daily animal care operations and delegates tasks to Animal Care Supervisors and Keepers as appropriate
- Reports animal maintenance issues and potential hazards for staff in a timely manner
- Ensures consistent, productive operating practices by identifying areas for potential revenue generation, reduction of costs, and more efficient procedures
- Identifies and allocates resources appropriately for efficient day-to-day operations and in response to emergency situations.
- Ensure readiness for AZA accreditation, USDA, CDFW, and safety inspections
- Interacts with other department managers as a member of the Manager’s team
- Holds peers accountable for their performance
- Schedules staff in a manner that prioritizes animal welfare, health, and operational needs. Recognizes when overtime hours are required and approves appropriate staff overtime
- Performs all tasks associated with time card processing
- Collaborates with the Volunteer Supervisor to schedule volunteers and interns
- Collaborates with the Education Department to develop and maintain the Ambassador Animal program and animal encounters
- Represents the zoo for public relations and media events on behalf of the department
- Adheres to the Zoo’s policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Policy Manual
- Attends bi-monthly all-employee meetings
- Attends departmental meetings
- Attends weekly animal management meetings
- Attends quarterly animal welfare assessment working group meetings
- Attends volunteer meetings as needed
SECONDARY DUTIES:
Guest Relations:
Guest Relations:
- Greets every guest with a smile
- Thanks guests for supporting/visiting the Zoo
- Answers phone calls, voice mails, and e-mails promptly
- Ensures the Zoo’s presentation standards for cleanliness and maintenance are met by keeping work areas clean, picking up trash, reporting unsafe or unsightly conditions
- Associates with guests to assist and share information
- Responds to all guest inquiries, complaints, and comments according to Zoo guest relations procedures
- Maintains a clean neat appearance and adheres to the Zoo’s uniform dress code
- Takes responsibility for staying informed about happenings at the Zoo, such as reading employee communications and attending meetings
- Reflects the qualities outlined in the Guest Relations Statement, the Zoo’s Core Values, and the Employee Pledge
- Applies and exemplifies “green” (sustainable) practices whenever possible
- Other duties as assigned to maintain efficient and quality zoo operations
POSITION CRITERIA:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements and environmental characteristics described below are representative of the knowledge, skill, ability, and working and physical elements required of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Education & Experience:
Education & Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Life Science, such as Biology, Zoology, Ecology, or closely related discipline
- Minimum of five years of experience in routine animal husbandry in a zoo, aquarium, or closely related activity
- Experience in supervision, management, and leadership
License, Certification, or Preferred Qualifications:
- Valid driver’s license with good driving record is desirable
- Ability to certify in First Aid/CPR/AED
- Must have current negative TB test and rabies titer and provide documentation, or be willing to have a TB test and rabies titer
- Hiring contingent on successful LiveScan DOJ background check
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
- Knowledge of animal behavior and natural history
- Knowledge of procedures for observation, handling/restraint, training, enrichment, reproduction, facility needs, and health of animals
- Understanding of emergency situation procedures, specifically those involved with guest and staff safety
- Must possess sound judgment and ability to use common sense for effective decision-making
- Basic computer skills (Word, Outlook, Excel)
- Knowledge of weaponry use and ability to handle weapons safely
- Ability to remain calm and lead in stressful situations and in times of emergency/crisis
- Ability to interact with a team including the ability to gather information and generate team consensus
- Ability to follow oral and written directions
- Effective oral and written communication skills
- Ability to develop warm and friendly relationships at work
- Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, our guests
- Ability to exercise safe work habits while in the proximity of potentially dangerous animals
- Awareness of, sensitivity to, and empathy with animals
- Ability to be part of the Weapons Team
Physical Demands & Work Environment:
- Requires the ability to access all areas of the facility
- Ability to negotiate the zoo work environment including behind-the-scenes, lawns, gravel, and hilltop
- Must be able to participate in operational practices; including climbing stairs, manipulating tools, and standing/walk for long periods
- Must be physically able to operate a variety of machines and equipment including electric cart, two- way radio, and capture equipment
- Ability to be trained for the use of heavy equipment
- Must be able to lift 50 pounds occasionally, and 10 or fewer pounds frequently
- Ability to exert a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly push, pull, or otherwise move objects
- The ability to use abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without 'giving out' or fatiguing
- The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs
- The ability to be an active member of the Weapons Team (Training and Emergencies)
- Ability to work successfully in a shared office with open space
- Involves working out of doors in all weather conditions
- Supportive and open employment culture
Tools Used:
- Standard cleaning equipment such as hoses, rakes, shovels, and brooms
- Two-way radio
- Personal Computer and software (Word, Excel, Outlook), and other zoo-related software
- Capture equipment
- Electric cart
- Hand tools
- Electrical tools
- Weapons (Training & Emergencies)
- Automobile
- Heavy equipment such as front loader, forklift, and dump truck
- Personal Protection Equipment
BENEFITS & PERKS:
- Great team, beautiful grounds, amazing animal collection, sunshine & ocean view almost year-round!
- Free parking, free guest passes, unlimited free tea/coffee every morning, 20% discounts on food services and retail purchases
- Access to the Collabornation learning platform, professional development, and lunch & learn opportunities
*You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page in order to be considered for the position*
Please make sure to check your spam folder if you do not see an email response from the Zoo.
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This job description is representative of the expectations of the position described. Additional duties, reporting relationships, and/or position criteria may be assigned as deemed necessary by the Chief Executive Officer or authorized representative. No changes to this job description shall be made without written permission by the Chief Executive Officer or authorized representative.
The Zoo reserves the right to revise this job description at any time. The job description does not constitute a contract for employment, and does not guarantee employment for any specified period of time. The job description does not in any way alter the at-will employment relationship.
At this time, the Zoo does not sponsor employment or internship visas.
At this time, the Zoo does not sponsor employment or internship visas.
Compensación: $66,350.00 - $69,850.00 per year
Somos un empleador con igualdad de oportunidades y todos los candidatos calificados recibirán consideración por el empleo sin distinción de raza, color, religión, sexo, origen nacional, estado de discapacidad, estado de veterano protegido o cualquier otra característica protegida por la ley.
Do you love animals and working with people? Join the fun, caring, friendly, and energetic team at the Santa Barbara Zoo in our mission of preservation, conservation, and enhancement of the natural world and its living treasures through education, research, and recreation.
Once you apply, please make sure to check your spam folder if you do not see an email response from the Zoo.
Once you apply, please make sure to check your spam folder if you do not see an email response from the Zoo.
The Santa Barbara Zoo is a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation and is a fully accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Known as one of the world’s most beautiful zoos, it is located on 30 acres of lush botanic gardens overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It is home to more than 146 animal species living in open, naturalistic habitats. Our wonderful collaborative team includes up to 220 employees and 50 volunteers.
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It’s a great place to work!
We strive to: 1. Provide a learning environment with great benefits and advancement opportunities. 2. Work as a team. 3. Enjoy our work and have fun!
We are guest-oriented.
We strive to: 1. Be professional, engaged, warm, friendly, informed, and resourceful because we care about our guests’ experience. 2. Ensure safe, clean, and injury-free facilities. 3. Be a place of choice to visit in town.
We are goal-oriented.
We strive to: 1. Set competitive goals that involve our entire staff. 2. Focus on our mission and the best ways to deliver our care and services to our animals, our staff, and our guests. 3. Be the best place to visit in Santa Barbara!