Zoo Assistant Director

Education and Experience: A Bachelor's degree or higher in zoo management, veterinary medicine business or public administration or related field, and four (4) years of zoological operation experience, including two (2) years of supervisory or managerial experience.

Licenses and Certificates: None.

Under general direction, plan, organize and manage the day-to-day projects and activities of the zoo department.

Assist in planning, directing and reviewing the activities and operations of the zoo department. Involves: Oversee, plan, and direct the zoo department divisions. Direct, recommend and establish operational plans to achieve departmental attendance and per capita targets. Work with zoo department divisions to maintain a high-quality visitor experience. Plan, organize and manage coordination of day-to-day projects and activities directly and through subordinate supervisors. Recommend, implement and administer policies and procedures. Direct, oversee and participate in the development of the department work plan. Analyze department personnel, equipment, procedures, plans and programs. Review, recommend and implement improvements, automation or streamlining of work activities.

Plan, design, implement and review department short and long-term goals, objectives and priorities. Involves: Collect and analyze data. Prepare a variety of reports regarding division activities, accomplishments and goals. Design, establish and maintain the organizational structure and staffing to effectively accomplish the organization's goals and objectives. Monitor department operations and activities to ensure successful implementation of City and department goals and objectives. Conduct research and assess opportunities for improving zoo operations such as new programs, exhibits or technology development. Analyze organization and community needs. Evaluate and review industry trends and statistics. Make recommendations for department improvements and opportunities. Participate in the zoo department long-term planning efforts and capital improvement plans. Monitor and apply fiscal controls to receipt and expenditure of funds. Estimate required funds for the use of personnel, facilities, equipment, materials and supplies.

Participate in the preparation of the annual zoo budget. Involves: Assist in the development and monitoring of budget. Work with appropriate personnel to develop, recommend and define operating and financial objectives. Direct, recommend and implement preparation of operating budgets and controls. Prepare projections of resources necessary to meet current and future development needs.

Supervise assigned personnel. Involves: Schedule, assign and check work. Appraise employee performance and review evaluations by subordinate supervisors. Provide for training and development. Enforce personnel rules and regulations and work behavior standards firmly and impartially. Counsel, motivate and maintain harmony. Interview applicants. Recommend hiring, termination, transfers, discipline, and merit pay or other employee status changes.

Represent the department in a professional manner as requested by the Director. Involves: Interact with a variety of department heads, managers, supervisors, employees and the public to provide and gather accurate information for human resources. Attend and participate in professional groups and committees. Prepare and deliver presentations at City Council, Civil Service Commission and other boards, commissions and community organizations. Serve as the Director during absences.