Director of Operations

Please complete the job application to the best of your ability. Incomplete applications will not be considered. This includes past employment with references.

African Safari Wildlife Park is a drug-free workplace and equal opportunity employer. 

All employees are expected to cross-train in multiple positions.

Director of Operations (Full-Time)

African Safari Wildlife Park, one of the top family destinations in the Shores & Islands Ohio region, is entering a period of significant growth and investment. Guided by our mission, we are dedicated to inspiring connections between people and wildlife while fostering an appreciation for the natural world.

We’re looking for talented individuals who are passionate about animals, wildlife conservation, and providing amazing guest experiences to embark on this exciting journey with us! Whether you’re an expert in animal care, a leader in guest services, or an advocate for conservation, there’s a place for you on our team.

As the Director of Operations, you will provide our guests with a wildly memorable experience by coordinating essential operations functions such as guest relations, retail, food and beverage, admissions, and point of sale. In addition to providing top-notch customer service, the ideal candidate will demonstrate a willingness to assist across various departments, maintain a positive attitude, and exhibit a passion for learning and growing in a dynamic environment. Efficiency, adaptability, and teamwork are key qualities for success in this role.

Key Responsibilities:

• Admissions
  • Manage and supervise all aspects of Park onsite admissions including point-of-sale software, staffing, and customer service
  • Work with marketing and sales teams to ensure public-facing staff are trained and aware of all Park promotions and special events
• Food and Beverage
  • Supervise all staff and maintain high-quality food safety and professionalism
  • Manage all menu items and cost margins, ensuring quality and consistency
  • Maintain a Managerial-Level Serve Safe Certificate
    
• Retail
  • Manage and assist in the retail operations including staffing, layout, inventory, stocking, and customer service
  • Ensures cleanliness and overall appearance of gift shop and satellite locations
  • Coordinate and assist in the procurement of all retail merchandise
  • Ensure all merchandise is received and sold in accordance with company policies
  • Maintain current knowledge of retail trends
• Information Technology
  • Maintain all Park point-of-sale equipment and radios
• Loss Prevention and Cash Control
  • Develop, audit and enforce company policies on cash handling
  • Assist in daily drawer closeouts and deposits
  • Monitor and review all cash deposits and relevant documentation
• Staff Management
  • Work closely with Park managers to hire seasonal staff
  • Work closely with corporate office staff to complete all company hiring documents
  • Coordinate initial general Park training for all new employees and conduct regular customer-service training will all staff
  • Maintain Park-wide compliance with all labor laws including but not limited to minor labor laws
• General Tasks
  • Oversee all Park policies and procedures

Required Qualifications:

• Must be 18 years of age or older and pass pre-employment screening

• At least 3 years of management experience, preferably including management experience with minor workers
• Experience managing customer-service employees
• Ability to work 40 hours per week, some of which will be weekend hours
• Flexibility to work after hours and possibly stay overnight, if required
• Regular and dependable attendance and punctuality
• Willingness to travel if needed

• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to engage with guests and team members

• Possession of a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record and reliable transportation
• Ability to use private vehicle for work-related tasks on occasion with fuel compensation provided
• Ability to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions
• Ability to use Microsoft Office programs
• Ability to perform labor-intensive tasks, including lifting and moving up to 50 pounds and standing for periods up to 8 hours

• Ability to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull, bend, climb stairs, and climb ladders

Necessary Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to engage with guests and team members
• A team player who collaborates effectively with colleagues
• Skilled at public speaking and comfortable engaging with diverse audiences
• Highly organized and capable of functioning independently

• Basic office and organization skills

What We Offer:

• Subsidized health insurance
• Paid time off with increasing accrual rates over tenure
• Opportunities for further education and development
• Team member appreciation days and parties
• Free admission for yourself, family and friends on your days off
• In-Park discounts on retail items and select animal encounters