The Director of Animal Care leads the animal care team to maximize safety, animal welfare, and a positive work environment. They support the development and implementation of the Zoo’s Institutional Animal Plan and ensure that acquisitions, transfers, and breeding at the Zoo aligns with that plan. The Director of Animal Care works closely with other departments to ensure exhibit maintenance, modification, and construction meet the needs of animals, staff, and guests. They also work closely with other zoos and conservation organizations to oversee JBZ’s participation in Species Survival Plan programs as well as other programs in accordance with the Zoo’s Strategic, Conservation, and Institutional Animal Plans.
- This position’s pay ranges: $87,000 – 96,000
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF THE DIRECTOR OF ANIMAL CARE AT JBZ
- The Director of Animal Care serves as a member of the Leadership team and participates in long-range goal setting, planning, and decision-making for the Zoo including the creation.
- They work with Animal Care Managers to develop, maintain, and implement departmental policies and procedures, such as standard operating procedures, safety procedures, emergency protocols, and contingency plans.
- They ensure that all animal husbandry policies, practices, and procedures conform to US Department of Agriculture licensing standards for institutions exhibiting live animals, and accreditation standards of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
- The Director of Animal Care supports the implementation of the JBZ Master Plan by recommending, developing, and implementing short- and long-range plans to improve the quality of animal habitats at the zoo in a manner that best meets and/or exceeds the physical, psychological, and behavioral needs of the animals; the safety of staff and guests; and the education and conservation goals of the Zoo.
- They also support budget development and management for the animal care department to ensure alignment with financial goals and objectives.
Experience Required
- QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE DIRECTOR OF ANIMAL CARE AT JBZ
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Biology, Zoology, or a closely related field
- 5 years of progressively responsible and demonstrably successful experience in the care and oversight of a group/collection of animals at an AZA-accredited institution
- Minimum 5 years of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience
- Affinity for the mission and values of John Ball Zoo
- Thorough working knowledge of exotic animal management practices and principles including animal welfare and wellbeing, behavior, health and nutrition requirements, and safe handling of animals including venomous reptiles
- Thorough working knowledge of the Species Survival Plan and other cooperative animal conservation programs
- Working knowledge of federal, state, and local statutes, regulations, and permitting governing zoo safety, sanitation, and accessibility required for animal ownership and exhibition
- Working knowledge of Association of Zoos and Aquariums accreditation standards
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint); and database management software applications and time and attendance systems
- Ability to interact positively with a wide array of individuals from diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds
- Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communications skills, and presentation delivery ability
- Willingness to carry a cell phone to respond to emergency situations during both normal working and off-duty hours, including weekends and holidays
- Ability to flex work hours periodically throughout the year
Perks
- BENEFITS AT JBZ We offer incredibly competitive benefits.
- These includes:
- Three medical plan options including HSA-eligible plan, as well as a free option
- Employer paid Short-term and long-term disability
- Employer paid Life Insurance and voluntary buy-up coverage for family members
- Employer Paid Employee Assistance Program
- Dental & vision for employee & family
- 12 full weeks of paid parental leave after one year of employment
- Daily zoo walks
- YMCA gym discounts
- Medical and dependent care flex spending accounts
- Wellness plan and healthy living reimbursement
- We offer 6 days of personal time, generous vacation time, and 11 paid Holidays each year
- 401(k) with a 4% match and 3% employer contribution
- Zoo discounts including employee-only zoo experiences
- Tuition reimbursement after 1 year of employment
- Additional medical benefits to meet you and your family's needs,
- A FREE Premium Zoo membership for you and your family.
Salary
- 87,000 - 96,000
