Facility
The Texas Zoo
Closing Date
[jobclosingdate]
Description
SUMMARY: Under the supervision of and reporting to the STZS Board of Directors, the Executive Director (ED) provide zoo leadership and vision relating to the development and implementation of long and short-range goals for programs, acquisitions, and exhibits. Responsibilities include overseeing the management of the zoo through delegating and supervising competent staff; fundraising and planning special events; grant writing; financial oversight of daily operations; and representing the zoo positively to and within the community. Specific duties, responsibilities, and requirements are listed below. This job description does not state or imply that these are the only duties to be performed. An employee may be required to follow other instructions and to perform other duties assigned by the Zoological Board of Directors. The evaluation of the ED will be based on this job description in addition to the employee’s general attitude and level of cooperation. Some duties may be delegated, assigned, and completed by authorized and trained subordinates.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Plan, direct, evaluate, and coordinate zoo operations.
A. Works with the Board in developing a long-range plan on collection and animal exhibits with a strong focus on Texas natives.
B. Recommends to Board policy and personnel changes and budget expenditures for zoo operations, programs, special events and guest services.
C. Responsible for planning and design of new exhibits or renovation of existing exhibits, communicating regularly with the STZS Board and working within capital budgetary restraints and strategic plans.
D. Ensure that the STZS is in compliance with all local, state, federal and international laws relevant to the operation of a zoological garden. This includes permits, annual reporting and compliance with regulatory agencies – including but not limited to USDA, TPWD, USFWS, and OSHA.
E. Cooperate with the Zoological Society Board of Directors, and others, in order to effectively manage and develop zoo operations.
F. Responsible for income/expense; as well as assisting treasurer in developing the overall annual budget.
G. Represent the zoo at City Council or County meetings and events, as well as attending visitor bureau and chamber events.
H. Represent the zoo at community events and meetings – providing information or speaking.
I. Direct and supervise efforts to maintain zoo accreditations.
J. Provides support for the zoo education program and volunteer program.
K. Answers mail.
L. Responsible for opening and closing facilities, fielding staff requests and concerns.
M. Decision making responsibility regarding safety of staff and guests.
1. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Set standards for and monitors conduct of zoo employees to ensure that humane philosophy and practices are projected to the public and implemented in care of animals.
B. Develops work plans and assigns priorities for organizational units.
C. Reviews organizational practices and procedures to ensure efficient and economical use of resources.
D. Delivers lectures and performs during public speaking opportunities
E. Direct maintenance work based on general inspection of grounds and/or consultation with zoo staff; and supervises the maintenance of facilities
F. Responsible to organize, assign and supervise work activities of zoo personnel engaged in the care and exhibition of animals.
2. FUNDRAISING
A. Responsible for grant writing to foundations and public or government sources to provide operations and capital money or support for zoo operations.
B. Planning of Special Events to promote the zoo and conservation or education, as well as provide income for zoo daily operational budget.
C. Increase opportunities for public monetary support of the zoo through concession sales, gift shop sales and general admissions or memberships.
D. Verifies receipts and deposits.
3. PUBLIC RELATIONS
A. Conduct tours through SSZ exhibits, as needed.
B. Answer questions and resolve complaints from the public.
C. Prepares and disseminate informational literature, bulletins, guidebooks, and other publications, including social media and other media broadcasts. (radio, television, newspaper, magazine and billboard)
D. Approves content on zoo website and act as administrator and social media posts.
E. Coordinates advertising of events and zoo activities with contracted firms. Provides the board with an advertising budget each year.
F. Delivers lectures
G. Develops and maintains relationship with radio, newspaper and television as well as other advertising forms in Victoria county and those surrounding.
Other
This position may require travel and use of personal vehicle including possible overnight.
Education and Pre-requisites
Skills & Abilities
Knowledge of basic sanitary, humane and safe practices for keeping, handling and displaying animals.
Skilled in training and supervising employees with knowledge of management principles associated with program planning and personnel administration.
Strong computer skills and knowledge of MS Outlook, Excel, Access and Word as well as website operations, updating and other software programs.
Strong leadership and teamwork skills with proven enthusiasm required.
Ability to comprehend and interpret applicable laws, rules and regulations as they apply to the zoo.
Strong organizational skills.
Education and/or experience
A bachelor’s degree (BA or BS) in zoology, biology, business management or a related field is preferred, plus three (3) years of supervisory level experience; or a acceptable combination of verifiable education and a minimum of six (6) years’ experience (including three (3) years of supervisory experience) in related capacities will be viewed as equivalent.
Compensation and benefits
Compensation will be determined upon applicants qualifications.
Application instructions
Applicants should email full resume with references to stzsthetexaszoo@gmail.com. Please do not call the zoo for details – applicants will be contacted.