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Oregon Metro

Deputy Director of Animal Care

Oregon Metro, Portland, Oregon, United States, 97204


Hello, we’re

Metro ! Metro is dedicated to shaping a better future for the greater Portland region. The work the people of Metro do every day benefits the lives of the people who live here, today, and tomorrow.Together for wildlife - The Oregon Zoo connects our community to the wonder of wildlife to create a better future for all. We are a hub for science, conservation, education and animal well-being delivering the highest quality of care.The Oregon Zoo is seeking a passionate and strategic Deputy Director of Animal Care to join our dynamic leadership team. This role is pivotal in advancing the zoo’s mission of connecting the community to wildlife, fostering a sense of wonder, and advocating for a sustainable future for all species.This role will be an integral part of our ongoing transformative phase, supported by a $380 million voter-approved bond measure, which will facilitate the modernization of exhibits, enhancement of educational facilities, and advancement of conservation initiatives. As a central figure in this, the Deputy Director of Animal Care will contribute to the design and implementation of innovative habitats and programs that align with our mission to connect the community to wildlife and promote a sustainable future for all species.With an annual visitation of over 1.3 million guests and a global reach of more than 5 million social media followers, the Oregon Zoo is recognized for its exceptional animal care and environmental stewardship. Our facilities include a state-of-the-art Veterinary Medical Center and recently developed habitats such as Polar Passage, Elephant Lands, and Primate Forest. The Deputy Director will provide strategic leadership and direction to the animal care division, ensuring the highest standards of animal wellbeing, fostering innovative guest experiences, and supporting a diverse and sustainable animal collection. We invite applications from passionate and strategic leaders eager to advance our mission during this significant period of growth and development.Key Responsibilities:

Collaborate with all divisions as a member of the senior leadership team to strategically develop plans, solutions, and processes that enhance zoo operations.Provide direct supervision to four animal curators, the Director of Animal Health, and the Animal Welfare and Research Manager.Oversee the implementation of strategic plans and policies for animal care, veterinary services, nutrition, and welfare teams to ensure they reflect and advance the zoo's mission and goals.Lead and mentor staff in best practices for animal care and welfare, endangered species recovery, research, and health activities, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth.Play a key role in designing and implementing state-of-the-art habitats and long-term care plans, guided by the Oregon Zoo Campus Plan.Promote a culture of engagement and development within the animal care division, supporting ongoing learning and career advancement opportunities.Ensure compliance with all applicable laws and permits, Association of Zoo and Aquarium accreditation standards, and occupational health and safety procedures.Manage budget development, animal record-keeping, staff recruitment, performance evaluations, and contract disputes efficiently and effectively.Partner with the Oregon Zoo Foundation on fundraising efforts and donor relations to support and enhance the zoo's financial sustainability goals.Attributes for Success:

Ability to cultivate and sustain trust with team members and stakeholders through transparent and inclusive decision-making processes.Strong ability to foster collaboration and positive relationships, both within the AZA community and across the organization, focusing on collective success.Self-motivated and innovative approach to addressing challenges, problem-solving, emphasizing proactive solutions and opportunities for improvement.Exceptional communication skills, characterized by consistency, sincerity, and empathy in interactions with colleagues, stakeholders, and the public.Commitment to Metro’s values of sustainability, accessibility, and equity, ensuring these principles are embedded into all aspects of the zoo operations and strategic planning.Minimum Qualifications:

A Bachelor’s Degree, or equivalent years of experience in zoology, biology, wildlife management, animal science or a related field.Seven to ten years relevant experience in the following areas:Supervisory experienceExperience in animal managementExperience in coordinating field conservation projectsAny combination of education and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the classification duties and responsibilities.Work Environment and Schedule:

Given the role's onsite leadership responsibilities, the ideal candidate should be able to work on-site and have a flexible schedule, as dictated by business operations. Extended hours and workweeks exceeding 40 hours may be necessary due to operational needs.If you were terminated for cause during any employment with Metro, or resigned in lieu of termination, you may be ineligible for rehire for a minimum of 3 years.Like to Have Qualifications:

You do not need to have the following preferred qualifications/transferable skills to qualify. However, keep in mind we may consider them when identifying the most qualified candidates. Your transferable skills are any skills you have gained through education, work experience, including the military, or life experience that are relevant for this position.Advance degree in zoology, biology, wildlife management, animal science or a related field.Experience with a zoo animal collection.Experience in executive leadership overseeing department organizational goals, strategic planning and overall decision-making.Screening and Evaluation:

The application packet consists of the following required documents. Please ensure that you upload these documents in your online application. Make sure your application is complete, missing any part of these items could result in an incomplete application and will not be moved forward in the recruitment.A completed resume that includes the details for each employer.Name of employer.Working title.Dates of employment; including if the work was full-time or part-time.Number of employees supervised.Summary of your responsibilities.A cover letter.Compensation, Benefits and Representation:

The full-salary range for this position is step 1: $179,482.72 to step 6: $229,069.82 annually. However, unless a candidate’s qualifications justify, based on the Oregon Pay Equity Act requirements and Metro’s internal equity review process, the appointment will likely be made between step 1: $179,482.72 to the equity range step 5: $218,162.37 annually.This position is not eligible for overtime and is non-represented. It is classified as a Deputy Director, Oregon Zoo.Classification descriptions are typically written broadly and do not include the specific duties and responsibilities of the positions.

View the classification description.Questions?

Talent Acquisition Specialist:

Megan WarnekeEmail:

megan.warneke@oregonmetro.govEqual Employment Opportunity:

All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, familial status, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability for which a reasonable accommodation can be made, or any other status protected by law.Accommodation:

Metro will gladly provide a reasonable accommodation to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing this application or participating in this recruitment process. Please contact the recruiter outlined in the job announcement in advance to request assistance.Veterans' Preference:

Under Oregon Law, qualified veterans may be eligible for veterans' preference when applying for Metro positions. If you are a veteran and would like to be considered for a veterans' preference for this job, please provide qualifying documents as instructed during the application process.Hybrid Telework:

Positions designated as “hybrid telework,” meaning you will have the option to work away from the office, although there may be times that coming into the office will be required. The designation of Hybrid Telework may be subject to change at a future time. All employees must reside in Oregon or Washington; Metro cannot support ongoing telework from other locations.Pay Equity at Metro:

No matter who you are or where you work at Metro, you deserve to be paid fairly for the work you do. Every worker must get equal pay for equal work regardless of your gender, race, age, or other protected characteristics.

Metro

has established processes and conducts routine pay equity reviews as part of the hiring process to ensure compliance with the 2017 Oregon Pay Equity Act.Online Applications:

Metro accepts job applications online. If you need assistance or accommodation with your application, or access to a computer, please contact the recruiter outlined in the job announcement in advance to request assistance.How to Apply:

For tips on how to apply and more information on what the application process looks like, visit Metro’s

“How to apply”

page.Government Jobs:

For assistance with your account or to reset your password please visit Government Jobs

"Help and Support"

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