Senior Director of Animal Care

Zoo Careers•Seattle, WA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

More than 1.3 million people visit Woodland Park Zoo each year. We connect people with wildlife and remind them of what’s at stake in our changing world. Our job is to motivate people to take action and provide them with the tools needed to join us in saving endangered species. Working for the zoo means upholding our mission, “To save wildlife and inspire everyone to make conservation a priority in their lives.” Apply today and show us how you zoo.

Requirements

Bachelor’s (B.A. or B.S) degree in a liberal arts or life sciences related field from an accredited educational institution and ten (10) or more years of experience in zoo animal care including animal health, welfare, or population sustainability programs.
Demonstrated success in building partnerships with other zoos, animal providers, government agencies, local communities, academic partners and others to develop and implement animal management initiatives.
Ability to inspire, motivate, and marshal resources throughout entire organization to advance animal care and welfare goals.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office products, particularly Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams.
A valid Washington State driver’s license (or the ability to obtain one).
Successful applicants must live and work in Washington State to perform this role.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a valid WA driver's license with a safe driving history.

Nice To Haves

Working knowledge of additional languages beyond English.
Knowledge of and experience with project tracking practices and software.
Research experience and a publication record in related fields.
Experience reviewing and managing complex grants.
Graduate degree in biology, zoology, geography, conservation sciences or related fields, (PhD, DVM or Masters).
Currently authorized to work in the US or meets the criteria for an O-1 Visa sponsorship.

Responsibilities

Manage and motivate the Animal Care leadership team to lead the dedicated team in providing world-class care for our diverse animal residents.
Strategically focus on Animal Care programs and partnerships aligned with the zoo’s mission and long-range plan.
Set an example as a visible, transparent, and accessible leader, reflecting the zoo’s culture and values.
Recruit, hire, train, and mentor staff members.
Develop and lead a high-performing team by setting expectations and providing regular feedback.
Establish performance metrics and goals for the team, which includes conducting performance evaluations and provide guidance for improvement.
Develop strategic plans for animal management, health, and welfare, including measurable indicators of performance.
Coordinate conservation work with AZA programs, emphasizing ethical population management beyond Species Survival Plans.
Lead innovation through partnerships and technology solutions for animal welfare, health care, and population sustainability.
Support animal plans for construction and remodeling, ensuring proper care, welfare, and population management.
Represent the zoo at national and international professional organizations, actively participating and leading AZA programs.
Collaborate with operational leaders for revenue-generating animal experiences, emphasizing DEAI goals.
Design, track, and manage multiple projects, including construction, with a focus on deadlines and measurable outcomes.
Develop and maintain an impartial Animal Management and Welfare Concern Process for addressing concerns.
Ensure compliance with animal-related regulations, including AZA accreditation, American Humane certification, and USDA licensure.
Manage budgets for Animal Management, Health, and Welfare, handling expenses and revenues.
Engage in fundraising with the Development Department to advance the zoo’s mission.
Stay informed about scientific developments, and foster research.