Zoo Conservation & Research Specialist - Herpetological Conservation Program Manager

Now is a great time to join our family and be a part of Zoo Miami’s dynamic future as we strive to “To Inspire people through engaging experiences to preserve nature in South Florida and across the globe”. Zoo Miami is focused on five key commitments: Conservation, Our Team, Our Animals, Our Guests, and Our Community through our core values of Welcoming, Caring, Fun, Collaborative and Dedicated.

• Zoo Miami is proud to be active in many global wildlife and environmental conservation initiatives and is involved in over 36 projects taking place on six continents.
• The largest and oldest zoological garden in Florida, Zoo Miami is the only tropical zoo in the continental United States, occupying almost 750 acres (340 developed), the Zoo is home to approximately 2,500 animals representing nearly 400 different species.

Summary:

• This position supervises the Zoo Miami Conservation and Research Department’s Herpetological Conservation programs, overseeing daily operations, program development and execution, maintenance of scientific equipment, partner relations, public and partner engagement, scientific publishing, grant writing and management, permit writing, reporting, and management and supervision of the technicians, interns, and volunteers.
• These programs are built upon ongoing research, monitoring, and science to address fundamental questions about the ecology and conservation of imperiled and invasive herpetological species.
• The primary purpose is to ensure the efficient and effective functioning and advancement of the herpetological related programs within the Zoo Miami Conservation and Research department.

Daily responsibilities/duties include, but are not limited to:

• Manage the South Florida gopher tortoise conservation, habitat management, and waif recipient site program.
• Support the advancement of the Phrynosoma field conservation and reintroduction programs.
• Support Zoo Miami’s role in invasive reptile and amphibian research and management programs.
• Advance our role and participation in relevant AZA reptile S.A.F.E. programs.
• Develop new science based applied conservation and research programs relevant to Zoo Miami’s resident species and species found within the regional environment.
• Handle partner relationships, including governmental, tribal, NGO, and international organizations, as well as researchers.
• Manage associated program grants and permits, including reporting, tracking, renewals, and deliverables.
• Oversee maintenance and operations of field equipment and vehicles.
• Coordinate, facilitate, and supervise interns and volunteers for associated avian programs.
• Provide administrative support to field technicians.
• Available to respond to occasional, unexpected needs and emerging issues, including evenings and weekends.
• Support outreach and education projects and priorities.
• Identify and secure relevant grant funding as needed to advance program goals consistent with the departmental plan.
• Collaborate with the Department Head to establish annual program-specific goals and objectives, and to develop and oversee program budgets and staff workplans.
• Work closely with the Marketing Department to integrate scientific findings into education and outreach materials and engage in community outreach activities.
• Assist other Conservation and Research Department program staff with duties, as needed.
• Publish scientific findings in peer-reviewed journals, conference proceedings, and/or reports.
• Travel regionally, nationally, and internationally to pursue program goals and objectives and support our program partners.

Experience Required

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Bachelor's degree in Biology or related natural or environmental science. One year of professional experience in conservation and research to include experience working in an AZA accredited institution is required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's Degree in Natural Sciences, Biology or Zoology, with a PhD in a related field preferred.
• Experience managing and participating in herpetological field conservation programs for 2+ years is preferred.
• Strong interest in research, conservation ecology, and applied field conservation Excellent scientific and media writing skills, with experience in writing reports, manuscripts, social media content, and webpage content.