Facility

Birmingham Zoo, Inc.

Closing Date

Description

Job Summary:

The Zoo Manager (ZM) works closely with the department Curator and is tasked with both supervisory responsibility and care for the assigned animals. Collectively with other zoo employees these activities will assist in presenting to the public an environment that is educational, entertaining and serves to further the mission of the Birmingham Zoo.

The ZM is responsible for an assigned area which includes the animals, facilities and staff. This person will provide a technical lead in the care for the animals in the assigned area, including coordination with other Zoo employees.

The ZM of Animal Ambassadors coordinates the interpretive and animal portions of all presentations involving program animals, including Wildlife Shows, Zoo to You programs, special events, media appearances, birthday parties, volunteer animal handling and education programs. The ZM of Ambassador Animals works closely with the Education Manager and other Animal Departments to develop interpretive content that is in line with the Zoo’s educational goals. The ZM of Ambassador Animals also works with other area ZMs that use exhibit animals for interpretive purposes to deliver quality interpretive programs to the public.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Supervises and trains the animal keepers in the approved protocol for the assigned area.
Makes recommendations regarding changes to Zoo policy or procedure to insure continuous improvement.
Provides recommendations and support for professional development of assigned staff in animal husbandry, education and conservation programs.
Inputs animal data into the computer system to insure current data is available to all zoo staff members regarding assigned animals.
Assists in cleaning and maintaining animal exhibits, including the use of chemical agents and special tools to assure the health and safety of the animals. Monitors and inspects animal exhibits and areas to insure compliance with USDA standards.
Evaluates and prepares assigned animals diet and consults with the Curator and/or Veterinarian staff based on the condition of the animal, weather and temperature influence, and any other special consideration relating to the species or individual animal.
Responsible for capturing, crating, and transferring animals using appropriate restraint and handling techniques designed to put the least amount of stress on the animal.
Communicates problems or concerns as it relates to the collection, staff or public to the Curator and/or other member of senior staff.
Interacts with Zoo visitors concerning Zoo operations, education and conservation.
Follows established protocol unless directed by a supervisor to deviate from that protocol.
Coordinates training of the use of program animals with the volunteers and education staff.
Coordinates with the Marketing Department for animal media segments for weekly TV spots. Designates and schedules an Ambassador Animals staff member to present on media segments.
Manages and coordinates Zoo to You off grounds programs.
Supervises Animal Handling and Creature Cart Programs. Schedules and assigns Ambassador Animals staff to man these programs.
Expected to write articles for Zoo publications. Will also be encouraged to publish and present papers in specialty area, as well as represent the Zoo at professional conferences.
Ensures USDA and AZA compliance at all times.
Manages husbandry and care programs with best welfare in mind.
Other duties as assigned.

Education and Pre-requisites

College degree preferred in a relevant field of study.
Minimum three years’ experience as a keeper with at least one year senior or Lead keeper experience.
Membership in AZA, AAZK and graduation from AZA’s Management School is preferred.
Willingness to be a team player.
Understanding and appreciation for BZI’s mission.
Must be willing to travel locally.
Must have a current valid driver’s license with no prior traffic violations (within the last five years).
Knowledge of basic computer skills including Word, Excel, Microsoft Office.
Must have good oral and written communication skills as well as good observational skills.
Must have good presentation and public speaking skills.
Must be Certified Interpretive Guide; will be expected to take and pass IATCB exam
Must have current negative TB test and rabies titer and provide documentation, or be willing to have a TB test and rabies titer.
Must be First aid/CPR certified or willing to be trained and certified.

Compensation and benefits

Excellent benefits package, plus eligibility to apply for PiCA (Passion into Conservation Action) grant after 1 year.

Application instructions

Apply online: www.birminghamzoo.com, About Us, Employment