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Association Of Zoos & Aquariums

Director of Zoological Operations

Association Of Zoos & Aquariums, Niagara Falls, New York, United States,


AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums, Certified Related Facilities, Commercial Members, Conservation Partners, and Society Partners may post free unlimited online job listings as a member benefit. Non-members can purchase job listings.Interested in a career in AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums? Learn more about types of zoo and aquarium jobs and relevant education programs in our career center.Aquarium of Niagara

Our mission: With our community and partners, we celebrate our natural wonders and inspire people to make a difference for aquatic life.Director of Zoological Operations

DescriptionThis executive team position reports to the President & CEO. This position is responsible for all developmental and administrative functions for the Aquarium’s animal collection with the goal of promoting animal well-being, overseeing animal acquisition and disposition, participating in exhibit design, and supervision of all zoological operations personnel.Serve as an advisor to the President & CEO, keeping them informed on internal conditions and important external developments relevant to the Aquarium of Niagara.Manage a high-performing team of curators, animal care specialists, aquarists, registrar, and life support technicians, serving as a positive leader through proactive communication, timely feedback, staff development, efficient use of departmental resources, and careful prioritization of institutional goals.Work in close coordination with the President & CEO to set and execute goals and strategic plans within zoological operations and conservation, which support and align with the goals, mission, and strategic plans of the organization.Represent the Aquarium in the field of animal care, overseeing the institution's AZA Animal Management programs, participating in the larger AZA community, and developing and maintaining relationships with other animal care, science, and conservation-based entities in support of the Aquarium's mission.Responsible for facilitating compliance with all local, state, federal, and other regulatory guidelines and standards, including but not limited to: USDA, APHIS, USFWS, AZA, OSHA, AMMPA, IMATA.Using objective metrics, provide oversight and implementation of departmental activities and institutional initiatives, such as departmental administration, operational integrity, capital and annual project development, budget management, and staff development and culture.Responsible for oversight of all spaces, equipment, and infrastructure related to zoological operations. Work closely with institutional colleagues to ensure proactive maintenance and development of new projects to meet animal care and exhibitry goals.Responsible for oversight of departmental best practices through audits and inspections, drills, curation of departmental SOPs, compliance with safety protocols, and adherence to institutional policies and standards.Serve as a subject matter expert in providing insight on construction, habitat, and facility design and maintenance of modern zoological practices in animal keeping and husbandry, under the philosophies established by the Aquarium's leadership team.Special projects and duties as assigned by the President & CEO.Experience Required

Requested RequirementsMinimum of a Bachelor’s degree in life sciences, biology, or equivalent in the aquarium field. Candidates with a suitable combined equivalent of education and experience will be considered.Minimum eight (8) years of experience, of which 5 years of proven supervisory experience, through hands-on work in aquatic animal care in husbandry and exhibit development, with emphasis on fresh and marine fishes, invertebrates, amphibians, marine mammals (pinnipeds), reptiles, and aquatic birds.Sound working knowledge of aquatic life support systems (LSS) and water chemistry.Must maintain SCUBA certification through an accredited diving agency.Must be proficient in Microsoft Office.Must possess the necessary skills and abilities to function as a dynamic and charismatic leader.Must demonstrate proficiency in public speaking and guest interaction.Working Conditions

Must be able to walk, stand, sit, knee, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull, bend, and climb stairs and ladders. Must be able to lift and carry fifty (50) pounds, work on uneven and slippery surfaces, withstand temperatures of hot and cold, and sit/stand for long periods of time when necessary.Salary: $75,000-$85,000How to Apply

Please send resume and cover letter to

kdaloise@aquariumofniagara.org . Be sure to include Director of Zoological Operations in the subject line of any correspondences.Aquarium of Niagara701 Whirlpool StreetNiagara Falls, NY 14301Phone: 716-285-3575

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