Zoo Director

GENERAL PURPOSE: Plans, coordinates, manages and directs Roosevelt Park Zoo operations, activities, and personnel.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The following duties ARE NOT intended to serve as a comprehensive list of all duties performed by all employees in this classification, only a representative summary of the primary duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed and may be required to perform additional, position-specific duties.

Oversees and coordinates the Zoo’s daily operations including administration, collection management, public education, and building and grounds maintenance.

• Monitors and ensures the Zoo and animal collections are properly maintained and provide for the enjoyment and education of the public.
• Directs the development and implementation of short- and long-term plans for projects in the Zoo including construction, building and grounds maintenance, and/or animal transactions.
• Develops and administers the Zoo’s budget; monitors and authorizes expenditures.
• Supervises and participates in fundraising activities; secures and administers grant funding.
• Hires, supervises, trains, and monitors the performance of assigned personnel; ensures staff compliance with zoo policies, procedures, and safety practices.
• Ensures zoo staff receive all the necessary safety training regarding equipment operations and protocols for working around exotic animals.
• Oversees the collection’s veterinary health functions including medical treatments and the administration of animal medications.
• Monitors and ensures compliance with all Federal and State laws, regulations, rules, and standards pertaining to zoo management and exotic animal care.
• Coordinates inspections and maintains all required permits and accreditations necessary for the operation of the Zoo.
• Responds to public inquiries, requests, and complaints regarding zoo related matters.
• Serves as a spokesperson for the Zoo and delivers presentations too community groups and organizations regarding zoo operations.
• Assists with and participates in special events and promotional activities for the Zoo.
• Coordinates with other District departments in planning and implementing zoo projects.
• Attends meetings and/or serves on committees pertaining to zoo management, construction, and development.
• Prepares and maintains a variety of departmental reports, records, and documentation.
• Performs other duties as assigned or required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s Degree in Zoology, Veterinary Medicine, or related field, AND five years’ experience directing zoo operations and working with exotic animals; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Required Licenses or Certifications:

• Must possess a valid North Dakota Driver’s License.

Required Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of zoology and veterinary medicine.
• Zoo operations and management principles.
• Regulations and standards governing zoo management.
• Exotic animal breeding, care, and feeding principles and processes.
• Safety protocols pertaining to the handling and care of exotic animals.
• Building and grounds maintenance principles, practices, and equipment.
• Processes for developing and implementing budgets.
• Supervisory principles, practices, and methods.

Required Skill in:

• Directing and coordinating the district’s zoo operations.
• Ensuring the Zoo’s animal collection is properly cared for and facilities are appropriately maintained.
• Maintaining compliance with regulations and standards governing zoo management.
• Developing and implementing zoo plans, policies, procedures, and programs.
• Overseeing and coordinating the Zoo’s veterinary health function.
• Serving as a spokesperson for the Zoo and interacting with the public.
• Developing and administering budgets and monitoring expenditure.
• Supervising, leading, and delegating tasks and authority.

Work Environment:

• Work is performed in and around zoo facilities and involves exposure to extreme weather conditions, contact with exotic animals, and lifting of objects weighing up to 50 pounds.