Children’s Center Manager

Children’s Center Manager (full time)

POSITION SUMMARY

The Staten Island Zoo—an Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA)-accredited institution—is seeking a dynamic, engaging, and knowledgeable Children’s Center Manager to lead the daily operations of our highly interactive Children’s Center. This role integrates AZA-standard animal care, staff leadership, and guest engagement to deliver a safe, enriching, and mission-driven experience for visitors. The Manager plays a critical role in advancing the Zoo’s commitment to excellence in animal welfare, conservation education, and public engagement, and assists the Zoo Director and General Curator in managing the Children’s Center as a special uplifting place focused on interactivity with the public, staff and animals.

• Oversee all daily operations of the Children’s Center in alignment with AZA best practices and accreditation standards
• Supervise, train, mentor, and inspire Children’s Center staff
• Conduct regular staff meetings to ensure effective communication
• Ensure compliance with all zoo policies, safety, USDA and AZA regulatory standards
• Prepare weekly keeper schedules
• Prepare inventories and order products related to Children’s Center

• Partner with the General Curator to ensure all animal care meets or exceeds AZA accreditation standards and USDA
• Oversee husbandry, enrichment, nutrition, and training programs
• Monitor animal health and welfare; report concerns and coordinate care as needed

• Develop and oversee engaging guest programs, including “Keeper Talks” and interactive learning experiences rooted in AZA educational principles
• Train staff in effective interpretation and public engagement
• Promote respect for animals through meaningful visitor interactions

• Observe guest behavior and feedback to improve Children’s Center experiences
• Conduct surveys and research to guide exhibit and program enhancements
• Collaborate with Education Department to support the Zoo’s educational mission

• Ensure cleanliness, safety, and quality of all exhibits and public spaces
• Identify and report maintenance needs promptly
• Support exhibit improvements that reflect AZA standards for animal habitats and visitor experience

• Oversee the Kid’s Korral, ensuring safe, engaging, and compliant animal interactions under AZA contact guidelines
• Enforce safety protocols and proper animal handling procedures

• Bachelor’s degree in zoology, animal science, biology, or a related field
• Minimum of 5 years experience in captive wildlife care
• Demonstrated ability to supervise and lead teams
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational and time management abilities
• Valid driver’s license
• Ability to lift 50 lbs and perform physically active work
• Flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and off-hours
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions

Preferred

• Advanced degree or certification in zoology, environmental science, or a related field