Facility
Henson Robinson Zoo
Closing Date
[jobclosingdate]
Description
Under the guidance of the Zoo’s Director, this position manages the zoo’s animal department, oversees the acquisition and disposition of animals. Schedules visits, medical treatments, and procedures with the zoo’s consulting veterinarian and on-call vets as needed. Maintains the zoo’s animal records and files on each of the individuals within the animal collection. Schedules and supervises the animal care staff; including but not limited to full-time Zookeepers, Seasonal Zookeepers, Zoo Interns, Docents and others assigned by the Zoo Director. Coordinates all aspects as it relates to animal welfare. Acts as Zoo Federal, State & Local Permit Holder and Zoo Registrar. Creates, implements, and enforces procedures pertaining to policy, protocols, and oversite of animal care staff. This position will serve as Manager on Duty in absence of the Zoo Director and/or the Guest Services/Marketing Manager.
Candidate should have strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with a variety of stakeholders from visitors, volunteers, other staff, sub-contractors, user groups and Park District administration. Strong candidates will enjoy and value working with the public and people of all ages, cultures, and abilities. This person should plan to have a commitment to the mission and core values of the Springfield Park District, USDA as well as the Zoological Association of America (ZAA).
This is a key zoo management position that requires the selected candidate to be innovative, creative, attentive, and dedicated to the Zoo’s forward momentum.
Education and Pre-requisites
Bachelor’s Degree in zoology, biology, or related field and a minimum of five years experience working in a zoo or aquarium. Additional work experience may be considered in exchange for degree.
Demonstrated skills in managing, promoting positive morale, and employee retention.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Experience in and demonstrate ability to coordinate and work with other zoo departments to ensure smooth operations.
Strong computer background and proficiency required with Microsoft Products such as Word, Excel Outlook, Google and Social Media platforms.
Experience with animal records programs including ZIMS.
Knowledge of the Zoological Association of America (ZAA) conservation programs and accreditation standards. Knowledge of ZAA/AZA conservation programs and accreditation standards.
Ability and willingness to work any additional hours on weekends, evenings, and special events as the schedule demands outside of any regular work schedule when necessary.
Ability to lead educational programs both onsite and offsite as needed.
Skills in providing excellent visitor experience.
Skill in the use of coordinating various programs and projects simultaneously.
Ability to act as a role model for all employees by demonstrating the behavior and work ethic expected of all employees; Work in a team environment and ability to maintain positive and effective working relationships with other employees.
Strong organizational, planning and prioritization skills.
Responsive to emails, telephone calls and general inquiries in a timely and professional manner.
Self-motivated with desire to promote and market the Zoo and Park District as an organization.
Maintain and promote a positive professional image within the community and overall field of zoos and aquariums.
Sound knowledge of pertinent safety precautions.
Possession of, or ability to obtain, a Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Certificate (infant, child and adult), and Standard First Aid Certificate.
Compensation and benefits
50,000 – 55,000 DOE
Application instructions
Please visit the Springfield Parks District website at : Springfieldparks.org