Director - Oglebay Zoo

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As Director of the Oglebay Good Zoo, you’ll be the chief visionary and operational leader—guiding a passionate team, expanding impact, and ensuring excellence across every aspect of the zoo s operation.

This role is perfect for a leader who brings both business acumen and a love of wildlife, and who thrives at the intersection of strategy, storytelling, and stewardship.

Strategic & Operational Leadership

• Direct the full spectrum of zoo operations: animal care, education, guest services, retail, custodial, maintenance, and volunteer teams.
• Advance and implement long-range strategic and master plans that align with Oglebay Park Resort’s broader mission.
• Foster academic collaboration with West Liberty University in support of the Zoo Science major and associated research.

Community & Stakeholder Engagement

• Represent the Oglebay Good Zoo locally and regionally—building strong relationships with guests, partners, media, and community leaders.
• Promote the zoo’s mission through public speaking and creative storytelling.
• Work in partnership with the Oglebay Foundation to identify and secure grant funding, support planned giving efforts, and elevate the zoo’s philanthropic profile.
• Oversee and manage operating budgets, adjusting as needed to meet goals.
• Ensure full compliance with AZA accreditation standards and regulatory requirements.
• Hire, train, and develop staff to uphold the highest standards of care, safety, and guest experience.

Conservation & Guest Experience

• Lead with a commitment to world-class animal care and welfare.
• Deliver memorable, meaningful guest experiences that connect people to nature and inspire conservation.

We’re seeking a warm, mission-driven leader who brings energy, empathy, expertise and:

• 4-year college or university program, 10 years of related experience and/or training, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• A track record of operational and team leadership in dynamic, public facing environments.
• Strong familiarity with AZA standards and the evolving role of modern zoos in conservation.
• Public speaking and communication skills that inspire trust and enthusiasm
• A collaborative spirit and a deep appreciation for Oglebay’s core values: legacy, connection, enrichment, and community.
• A valid driver’s license and the ability to work on-site in Wheeling, WV.

Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to lead the Oglebay Good Zoo into its next exciting chapter. If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact in conservation, education, and community engagement, we want to hear from you.

Oglebay Good Zoo has partnered with Canopy Strategic Partners to recruit top-tier talent in the zoological field. To be considered for this role, please submit a letter of interest and resume in a single PDF format to Lauren David at