Zoo Manager - Happy Hollow Park & Zoo (HHPZ) - Parks, Recreation & Neighborhood Services (PRNS)

City of San Jose•San Jose, CA

18h•Onsite

About The Position

The Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services (PRNS) Department is seeking a dynamic and experienced leader to fill one (1) Zoo Manager position at Happy Hollow Park & Zoo (HHPZ)—a City of San José flagship destination that blends a fully accredited zoo, amusement park, and nature-based play experience in the heart of San José, California (population 1M+). Happy Hollow Park & Zoo is a 16-acre, Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA)-accredited facility dedicated to connecting people to nature through play. Open year-round and supported by the Happy Hollow Foundation, HHPZ offers immersive experiences for guests of all ages, including animal exhibits, nature-themed rides, educational programming, and conservation initiatives. HHPZ is home to approximately 100 animals representing nearly 50 species, including participation in 19 Species Survival Plan (SSP) programs. The zoo features thoughtfully designed habitats that prioritize animal welfare, encourage species-specific behaviors, and support positive reinforcement training practices. These environments provide animals with choice and control, while enabling high-quality care, veterinary collaboration, and enriching guest experiences. In addition to animal care and exhibits, Happy Hollow delivers a wide range of educational opportunities including school programs, camps, scout experiences, virtual encounters, and conservation-focused learning. The park also hosts public and private events, contributing to its role as a key community destination and regional asset.

Requirements

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Biology, Zoology or a related field.
Three (3) years of increasingly responsible experience managing and supervising an institution or facility responsible for the care of zoo animals and public exhibits of diverse and exotic animals, including two (2) years of experience at the level of Zoo Curator.
Must have valid CA driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

Completion of two (2) years of course work from an accredited college or university and five (5) years increasingly responsible experience managing and supervising the care of zoo animals. There is no substitution for the required Zoo Curator experience.

Responsibilities

Provides overall leadership and direction for zoo operations, including animal care, veterinary coordination, education, maintenance, and capital improvement projects.
Oversees the health, safety, and welfare of the animal collection, ensuring compliance with Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) standards and all applicable regulatory requirements.
Plans, coordinates, and oversees animal collection management, including acquisition, disposition, transport, and habitat planning in alignment with SSP programs and institutional goals.
Establishes and maintains policies and procedures for animal care and records management, including handling, restraint, veterinary coordination, and health monitoring programs.
Develops and implements strategic goals, policies, and operational priorities aligned with the mission of Happy Hollow Park & Zoo and PRNS Department objectives.
Leads conservation and education initiatives with a strong focus on enhancing guest experience, accessibility, and community engagement.
Directs and coordinates facility maintenance, improvements, and capital projects, working closely with Parks Facilities staff, contractors, and volunteers.
Participates in the development and administration of the zoo budget, including identifying resource needs and supporting operational and capital planning.
Builds and maintains strong working relationships with staff, City departments, nonprofit partners, regulatory agencies, and community stakeholders.
Collaborates closely with the Happy Hollow Foundation on fundraising initiatives, capital projects, partnerships, and program development.
Represents the zoo in professional settings, including meetings, conferences, and industry events to stay current with trends and best practices in zoological management.