DIRECTOR OF PEORIA ZOO AND LUTHY BOTANICAL GARDEN

We contribute to healthy and vibrant communities by responsibly using our resources to offer high quality parks, recreation, and education experiences to those who live, work, or play in our District.

OVERVIEW

• Under the supervision of the Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation, the Director of Peoria Zoo and Luthy Botanical Garden is responsible for a number of specific tasks as outlined below under responsibilities.

Experience Required

SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES WILL HAVE 

• Four year college degree in related field. Although a degree is preferred, extensive experience in a like position with similar duties and responsibilities may be substituted for all or part of the educational requirement.
• At least five years of supervisory experience.
• Passion and enthusiasm for mission driven work.
• Requires working knowledge of public relations and administrative procedures.
• Understanding of basic philosophy underlying a sound zoological operation and ability to interpret that philosophy to staff and the public.
• Ability to work cooperatively with representatives of community, public and private groups and organizations to provide the best possible image of the Park District so the public respects and appreciates the Park District, its facilities and the quality of its recreation and educational programs.
• Ability to work harmoniously with the public, support organizations and fellow employees in an enthusiastic and cooperative manner.
• Extensive knowledge of facility operations, including scheduling, programming and basic management procedures. 
• Understanding of Park District finance and maintenance with ability to apply and interpret knowledge in practical situations related to facility operations and programs.
• Ability to be professional, respectful, accountable, innovative, to follow safety procedures, and be equitable to both internal and external customers.
• Ability to train, supervise and evaluate employees.
• Ability to effectively communicate orally and in writing.
• Requires Class “D” driver's license.

Further Comments

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Directing all operations and programs of the Peoria Zoo and the George L. Luthy Memorial Botanical Garden including animal, horticulture, maintenance, education and visitor services functions. 
• Within recognized professional standards, accepting responsibility for the performance of subordinate personnel as well as team achievements and/or results.
• Delegating appropriate duties to staff members and monitoring their progress.
• Recruiting, hiring, training, disciplining, evaluating and supervising staff. 
• Actively promoting the mission of Peoria Zoo and raising awareness in the community of the Zoo and its educational and conservation offerings.
• Maintaining zoo operations within budgetary limitations and assisting in development of potential funding sources including acting as liaison with Peoria Zoological Society (PZS) and other fund-raising groups.
• Determining the best way for Peoria Zoo to make a positive impact in the areas of education and conservation and developing a plan to achieve success in the aforementioned areas.
• Working with news media, groups, agencies and other zoos for the promotion of the Peoria Zoo.
• Working with the District’s Marketing Team to promote special events and promotional activities at the zoo.
• This includes suggestions for and preparation of content for news releases, articles, or other public relation activities. 
• Working with and providing input to District leadership in the allocation of District and PZS capital resources to projects associated with construction of zoo exhibits and habitats in compliance with Association of Zoos and Aquariums standards.
• Staying up to date on industry standards for animal health and wellbeing and insuring the application of the same at Peoria Zoo by staff leadership.
• Forecasting cost, anticipating need and preparing annual budget recommendations.
• Ensuring that staff is provided with necessary safety training and equipment.
• Supervising and/or preparing submission of permits, maintenance of records, files and reports.
• Establishing and implementing effective work procedures.
• Following all safety procedures that pertain to the duties performed.
• Supporting all aspects of the Park District’s safety program.
• Performing all other duties as assigned.

Perks

BENEFITS AND PERKS

• Paid sick days, vacation days and holidays.
• Longevity bonus programs and wellness programs. 
• Pension and retirement programs and Social Security participating.
• Exceptional health plan.
• Paid Life Insurance.
• Disability Insurance.
• Full-time employees and dependents enjoy discounted recreation classes and free admission to select Park District facilities.

Salary

• SALARY RANGE: $90,000 – $102,000 PER YEAR