Zoo & Interpretive Services Manager

The San Joaquin County Parks and Recreation Department, a division of the General Services Department, seeks an experienced Zoo & Interpretive Services Manager to support the administration, operations, and improvement of the Micke Grove Zoo. The salary range is approximately $94,226–$114,533 annual. This position requires the incumbent to ensure zoo facilities meet or exceed industry standards, lead and supervise zoo staff, serve as a liaison to community organizations, monitor and implement budgetary items, and perform related managerial duties.

• Supervise zoo and nature center staff involved in daily operations, animal care, maintenance, educational and interpretive programming, and volunteer coordination.
• Coordinate planning and development to ensure facilities meet or exceed industry standards and operations comply with applicable rules, regulations, and laws.
• Establish and maintain professional and regulatory agency relationships or affiliations to ensure appropriate operating standards and identify industry trends.
• Develop and implement fundraising, promotions, marketing, public relations, and community support activities; serve as liaison to community organizations, businesses, agencies, and the public.
• Evaluate zoo and nature center needs, identify goals, and plan new facilities, upgrades, and exhibits; develop and implement interpretive programs.
• Prepare, implement, and monitor budgets; approve expenditures.
• Gather, organize, and analyze information; prepare reports, recommendations, correspondence, and monitor contracts and grants.

Education: Graduation from an accredited four‑year college or university with major coursework in zoology, wildlife biology, animal science, animal care, zoo management, or a related field.

Experience: Four years’ experience in zoo operations or a closely related field, with two years at a supervisory level.

Principles and practices of supervision; management techniques including planning, budgeting, and training; basic computer and modern office automation technology; zoo management practices, procedures, and protocols; a thorough understanding of animal needs and habits; laws and standards for exotic animals; public relations and marketing principles; zoo exhibit and facility design; interpretive program development; USDA regulations and AZA guidelines.

Plan, assign, and direct staff; work effectively with the public; interpret contracts; manage a diverse workforce; develop and manage budgets; gather and analyze data; prepare and present reports; respond effectively to changing priorities; design exhibits and educational tours; speak in public; apply rules, laws, and regulations; operate computers; communicate orally and in writing; establish effective relationships with officials, staff, and the public.

Mobility: operation of data entry devices, sitting, frequent walking and standing, pushing/pulling, bending. Lifting: frequently 5–50 pounds or less. Vision: good overall vision, color perception, depth perception; reading and close-up work. Dexterity: normal dexterity and repetitive motion. Hearing/Talking: frequent hearing and talking on telephone/radio and in person. Special requirements: working weekends, evening or weekend work. Emotional/psychological: frequent public contact, decision making, concentration, occasional exposure to dangerous situations.

Environmental: exposure to noise, cold/heat, hazardous materials, dust, fumes, varied weather conditions.

San Joaquin County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer and is committed to providing equal employment to all without regard to age, ancestry, color, creed, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation or belief, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation.

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance with multiple plan options.
• Life Insurance and the option to purchase additional term life insurance.
• Retirement Plan under the County Retirement Act of 1937.
• Vacation, Holiday, Sick Leave, Administrative Leave, Bereavement Leave.
• Optional Deferred Compensation and Flexible Benefits Plans.
• Parking supplemental allowances and educational reimbursement programs.