Assistant Director of Operations
Listed on 2026-07-28
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Management
General Management, Operations Management, Project & Program Management, Maintenance Manager
Job Description
Position: Assistant Director of Operations
Department: Facilities and Operations;
Bronx Zoo
Category Type: Full time
Status: Exempt
Reports to: Executive Director of Facilities and Operations
Positions Managed: Operations Managers, Building Engineer, Life Support Systems Supervisor, Supervising Maintainers and Maintainers in the Carpenter, Machine, Plumbing, and Electrical shops
Schedule &
Hours:
Monday through Friday
Travel: 0%
Effectively, efficiently, and safely manage the staff and tasks of trade shops within the Bronx Zoo Operations Department. Provide oversight, and direction to the shops working throughout the park to maintain and conduct repairs on the zoo's buildings, exhibits, animal holding areas, office spaces, classrooms and public pathways and grounds. Contribute effectively in creating the best possible guest experience for those visiting the zoo.
PrincipalResponsibilities
- Provide leadership in directing the Operations Department's functions throughout the Bronx Zoo in performing routine maintenance and repairs. These activities include general construction, capital upgrades, demolition, alteration, repair, modification and maintenance of the facilities and grounds, including roads, paths, fences, buildings, exhibits, equipment, pools, streams, dams, etc. and be able to prioritize all activities.
- Provide leadership in managing staff in the Operations Department. Ensure that trade shops in the Operations Department operate at a consistent, efficient and effective level, and in compliance with WCS's policies and procedures. Provide direction and training when necessary.
- Oversee the preventive maintenance program for HVAC, life support systems, electrical and plumbing related equipment. Work with staff to troubleshoot and conduct repairs to all associated equipment.
- Maintain established standards of safety for the Operations staff outside contractors, vendors, zoo guests, and all WCS staff members working at the Bronx Zoo.
- Ensure building systems are in compliance with DOB & FDNY rules and regulations.
- Communicate and coordinate activities with other departments within the Bronx Zoo and the other four WCS zoos & aquarium as necessary and as directed by the Director.
- Ensure compliance with WCS's collective bargaining agreement with District Council 37 (DC 37), including, but not limited to, enforcing consistent practices in monitoring performance and discipline and adhering to all rules and regulations relating to interaction among WCS management, union members and DC 37 representatives.
- Interview and onboard new staff for the Operations Department as needed, providing supervision, guidance and follow-up as necessary.
- Develop project budgets, order materials, and assist the Director in the preparation of all departmental budgets, both Capital and Operating, and work within approved budgets.
- Work with WCS's Environmental Compliance & Safety Specialist to assure adherence to environmental regulations, OSHA Compliance and safety training.
- Provide all necessary written and verbal reports, updates and analysis in a timely fashion to the Director as required and when requested.
- Bachelor's degree in Construction, Engineering or similar related field.
- Minimum five years' experience in managing facilities maintenance and trades in a zoo, aquarium, or similar facility with multiple buildings and grounds.
- Previous experience managing staff in a union environment is preferred.
- Must have extensive exposure to various building trade disciplines and a familiarity with building codes and OSHA safety regulations.
- Must be familiar with building operations including chillers, boilers, life safety systems, electrical distribution, and HVAC building management systems.
- The Assistant Director must have excellent communication skills, be a team leader, builder of people and able to relate well to others.
- Proven ability to multitask and prioritize critical work.
- Ability to work effectively with other WCS departments, outside vendors/contractors, and government agencies in carrying out the principal functions of the Operations Department.
- Commitment to creating and maintaining a positive work environment for staff and guest experiences throughout the Bronx Zoo.
- EOE/ AA/M/F/Vets/Disabled Salary Range $135,000 - $145,000
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