Facility
Reid Park Zoo – Tucson, AZ
Closing Date
[jobclosingdate]
Description
Are you passionate about?
…Providing exceptional care for animals?
…Saving wildlife and wild places?
…Inspiring guests to connect with nature and take action to impact the future of our world?
…Being part of a dynamic, growing zoo that welcomes diversity, equity, inclusion and
personal contribution?
Reid Park Zoological Society is seeking a passionate and proactive Animal Care Supervisor to guide an enthusiastic team of animal care staff and oversee various carnivore and primate species. The position requires a Bachelor’s degree in biological science, animal or zoology plus five years’ experience in animal care at an AZA accredited institution. Alternatively, an Associates degree with eight years’ experience would be considered.
Reid Park Zoo, located in beautiful Tucson, Arizona is a mid-sized, regional zoological garden caring for over 200 exotic animal species from around the world in lush, naturalistic habitats. With a mission centered in conservation, the Zoo is Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and participates in nearly 100 Species Survival Plans for threatened and endangered species. Reid Park Zoo maintains a state-of-the-art elephant program, a cutting-edge veterinary clinic that serves as a teaching hospital for the University of Arizona veterinary program, and is the co-leader of the Flamingo SAFE program. Attracting more than 500,000 guests annually, the Zoo is the midst of an exciting expansion project, Pathway to Asia, that will add four acres to its campus, bringing new species such as
red panda, Komodo dragon and Lar gibbon, as well as a breeding facility for critically- endangered Malayan tigers when it opens in 2025. Be a part of a vibrant, growing organization as Reid Park Zoo implements a master plan that will be investing over $60M in new exhibits over the next ten years.
Tucson features stunning high desert valley vistas surrounded by four mountain ranges that offer a year-round paradise for cyclists, hikers, bird-watchers and outdoor enthusiasts. Named the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy dedicated in the United States, the City is a delight for foodies with a lively and developing dining, arts and cultural scene, and a lovely wine country just thirty minutes away. With the University of Arizona and its championship sports, top-notch medical facilities, and affordable housing, Tucson is a great place to bring the family and put down roots– a big city, yet with a comfortable, small-town feel.
No phone calls or visits please. This position is open until filled. We are an Equal
Opportunities Employer. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff by creating an inclusive environment.
Overview:
The Animal Care Supervisor is responsible for supervising, mentoring, and evaluating a team of Zoo Keepers, as well as overseeing several animal areas of the zoo and all associated records. At times this position may be involved in direct animal care and habitat enhancements. This position works collaboratively with the Veterinarian Team, Facilities, Events and Education Departments. The Carnivore Area includes African lions, jaguar, grizzly bear, lemurs, gibbon, anteater, Andean bear, tapir, African wild dog, lion-tailed macaque, sloth, squirrel monkey and possibly
others. The dangerous animals sections utilize a 2 person/ 2 lock method for shifting, and the whole team works closely together to provide innovative enrichment experiences and daily husbandry training for the animals. Outstanding Animal Well-being is emphasized and supported by the Supervisor in coordination with animal care staff as well as the Veterinary team and Animal Welfare Specialist.
Reports To: Animal Care Manager
Responsibilities:
● General duties:
Proactively supervises, trains, schedules and mentors Zoo Keepers in their work.
The Carnivore Supervisor currently oversees 8 direct reports.
Oversees the carnivore team with a holistic consideration for wellness, health, training, enrichment, daily care and all related documentation. The carnivore team currently includes African lions, jaguar, grizzly bear, lemurs, gibbon, anteater, Andean bear, tapir, African wild dog, lion-tailed macaque, sloth, blue duiker and squirrel monkey.
Assists Animal Care manager with collection planning. Reviews animal records and
assists with animal transactions.
Conducts preventative maintenance and ensures safety in work areas.
Collaborates with the welfare committee, training & enrichment committee, education department, events team and safety team to provide an environment for excellent animal and staff wellness.
Completes all training as required. These may include but are not limited to job
specific training, safety, zoonotic disease, blood borne pathogens, animal enrichment, animal training, conservation, Species Survival Plan (SSP), active shooter, DEI, radio protocol, CPR/ First Aid, hand tool usage and heavy equipment operation such as skid steer/ fork lift truck etc.
● Supervisory duties:
Delivers annual performance reviews for Zoo Keepers and provides work plan goals
for the coming year. Provides timely feedback on performance throughout the year
and promotes a work environment of respect and trust.
Participates in recruiting, selecting and hiring applicants that compliment a positive
and inclusive work culture. Involved in promotion and status changes and makes
recommendations based on performance evaluations.
Assesses the weekly staffing needs of the team and assigns responsibilities
accordingly.
Mentors and coaches Zoo Keepers to develop professional skills and ensures
compliance with safety policies and practices.
Partners with Human Resources to maintain a professional and collaborative work
environment for staff.
● Administrative Functions
Comfortable with animal data software systems such as ZIMS and ZooMonitor
Performs duties in accordance with RPZS policies
Provides excellent customer service as a component of all job duties
Follows zoo safety protocols and procedures including participation on DART and
Safety teams as applicable
● Other Duties as Assigned
Education and Pre-requisites
Preferred Qualifications, Skills and Abilities.
● 5 years in animal care at an AZA accredited facility and bachelor’s degree – biological science related preferred. Alternatively, Associates degree plus 8 years’ experience.
● Expertise in carnivore husbandry and care required including introductions, geriatric and neonatal care.
● Experience working with a wide range of species is a plus.
● Attends work on a regular and consistent basis.
● Valid and unrestricted driver’s license.
● Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
● Assertive, energetic, and enjoys working in a fast-paced environment.
● Ability to take direction, constructive feedback and be quick to act or change direction as needed.
● Reliable and able to work to a schedule.
● Provide excellent customer service.
● Must be able to work outside and must be comfortable working in either cold or hot
weather conditions.
● Must be able to lift and carry heavy objects (up to 50+ lbs. on occasion), must be
comfortable walking and standing for long periods of time.
● Must be able to work a flexible work schedule including evenings and weekends.
Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. It is intended to give a reasonable idea of what might be required.
Compensation and benefits
The hiring range for this position is $47,487 – $55,797 annually. We have four healthcare plans, two dental plans, vision, life insurance, pet insurance and some free benefits including Short & Long Term Disability and life insurance. We offer 12 vacation days, 11 paid holidays plus 40 hours sick time annually. We offer a 401k plan with employer matching. In addition, we have staff discounts and fun employee events throughout the year and zoo membership for your family.
Application instructions
Please apply via our website www.reidparkzoo.org/employment