The gorilla department manager is responsible for the day to day leadership and management of the gorilla area, ensuring team members provide proper husbandry to the animals while supporting the mission and values of the zoo.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
- Assist in the development and construction of new gorilla exhibit, including hiring of staff to form the department.
- Support the creation of a cohesive team while demonstrating organizational, planning, delegation, mentoring, and coaching skills.
- Develop and maintain SOPs for assigned area(s) that align with AZA and USDA requirements.
- Ensure the daily cleaning, feeding, and care of zoo animals, including medical treatments, food preparation, and maintenance of enclosures.
- Maintain department records, including animal records, employee records, daily reports, work orders, and purchase requests.
- Work collaboratively to develop and maintain animal training, enrichment and wellbeing programs.
- Act as a Zoo liaison to AZA and other outside organizations.
- Communicate effectively in writing and orally with management, team members, interns, volunteers, and guests.
- Partner with Human Resources to continuously train, develop, and promote all zoo crew teams through individual performance planning.
- Maintain excellent communication with the Director of Mammals and work with them to complete the goals of the department
- Focus on safety of staff, guests, and animals, performing regular exhibit integrity checks and highlighting safe practices.
- Ensure that tools and equipment are used appropriately and safely and in proper working order.
- Uphold all company policies as outlined in the Standard Operating Procedures, Team Member Handbook, and Code of Business Conduct.
- Consistently exhibit an attitude of service inside and outside of the zoo, showing hospitality to all.
- Be fully committed to the mission of San Antonio Zoo to create awareness that inspires action to care for the wild world we steward and animals we protect.
- Other Responsibilities:
- Performs other work-related duties as required and assigned.
SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor's degree in wildlife management, zoology, biology, or related field is preferred.
- Five years of experience with great apes (gorillas is preferable)
- Three years of supervisory experience is preferred.
- Must be a self-motivated team player, efficient and solution-oriented: finding creative solutions to complex challenges.
- Must have excellent observation skills and be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
- Must have basic knowledge of research techniques and practices, with solid observation skills.
- Must be able to consistently establish and maintain an effective rapport with all levels of management, team members, interns, volunteers, and guests.
- Responsible for completing all online training courses by assigned deadlines.
- Must be 18 years of age or older with a clean driving record for vehicle operation.
- This position requires a valid Class 'C' Texas Driver's License or a valid driver's license from another state with the ability to obtain a Class "C" Texas Driver's License within 45 days of becoming employed.
- Successful candidates must complete a pre-employment drug screening, and background check.
- Must be able to work in varying climate and weather conditions (rain, snow, hot, or cold).
- We enjoy year-round operation for all staff, must be available day, nights, weekends, and occasional special after-hour assignments.
Perks
- We offer robust benefits including medical, dental, vision and 403B.
- As well as Zoo memberships and Zoo discounts throughout the park.
Salary
- $50,000 Annual
