Director of Animal Care (John Ball Zoo)

John Ball ZooWHO WE ARE At John Ball Zoo, our mission is to inspire our community to be actively engaged in the conservation of wildlife and our natural environment. John Ball Zoo has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums since 1983, which assures excellent animal care and a dedication to conservation. As one of the top attractions in Grand Rapids, we welcome over 700,000 guests each year who can experience over 2,000 animals of over 230 species.Director of Animal Care (John Ball Zoo)

The Director of Animal Care leads the animal care team to maximize safety, animal welfare, and a positive work environment. They support the development and implementation of the Zoo’s Institutional Animal Plan and ensure that acquisitions, transfers, and breeding at the Zoo align with that plan. The Director of Animal Care works closely with other departments to ensure exhibit maintenance, modification, and construction meet the needs of animals, staff, and guests. They also work closely with other zoos and conservation organizations to oversee JBZ’s participation in Species Survival Plan programs as well as other programs in accordance with the Zoo’s Strategic, Conservation, and Institutional Animal Plans.This position’s pay ranges: $87,000 – 96,000A DAY IN THE LIFE OF THE DIRECTOR OF ANIMAL CARE AT JBZThe Director of Animal Care serves as a member of the Leadership team and participates in long-range goal setting, planning, and decision-making for the Zoo including the creation. They work with Animal Care Managers to develop, maintain, and implement departmental policies and procedures, such as standard operating procedures, safety procedures, emergency protocols, and contingency plans. They ensure that all animal husbandry policies, practices, and procedures conform to US Department of Agriculture licensing standards for institutions exhibiting live animals, and accreditation standards of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The Director of Animal Care supports the implementation of the JBZ Master Plan by recommending, developing, and implementing short- and long-range plans to improve the quality of animal habitats at the zoo in a manner that best meets and/or exceeds the physical, psychological, and behavioral needs of the animals; the safety of staff and guests; and the education and conservation goals of the Zoo. They also support budget development and management for the animal care department to ensure alignment with financial goals and objectives.Experience Required

QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE DIRECTOR OF ANIMAL CARE AT JBZBachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Biology, Zoology, or a closely related field5 years of progressively responsible and demonstrably successful experience in the care and oversight of a group/collection of animals at an AZA-accredited institutionMinimum 5 years of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education, training and experienceAffinity for the mission and values of John Ball ZooThorough working knowledge of exotic animal management practices and principles including animal welfare and wellbeing, behavior, health and nutrition requirements, and safe handling of animals including venomous reptilesThorough working knowledge of the Species Survival Plan and other cooperative animal conservation programsWorking knowledge of federal, state, and local statutes, regulations, and permitting governing zoo safety, sanitation, and accessibility required for animal ownership and exhibitionWorking knowledge of Association of Zoos and Aquariums accreditation standardsProficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint); and database management software applications and time and attendance systemsAbility to interact positively with a wide array of individuals from diverse cultural and socio-economic backgroundsExcellent interpersonal, oral, and written communications skills, and presentation delivery abilityWillingness to carry a cell phone to respond to emergency situations during both normal working and off-duty hours, including weekends and holidaysAbility to flex work hours periodically throughout the yearBENEFITS AT JBZ

We offer incredibly competitive benefits. These include:Three medical plan options including HSA-eligible plan, as well as a free optionEmployer paid Short-term and long-term disabilityEmployer paid Life Insurance and voluntary buy-up coverage for family membersEmployer Paid Employee Assistance ProgramDental & vision for employee & family12 full weeks of paid parental leave after one year of employmentDaily zoo walksYMCA gym discountsMedical and dependent care flex spending accountsWellness plan and healthy living reimbursementWe offer 6 days of personal time, generous vacation time, and 11 paid Holidays each year401(k) with a 4% match and 3% employer contributionZoo discounts including employee-only zoo experiencesTuition reimbursement after 1 year of employmentAdditional medical benefits to meet you and your family's needsA FREE Premium Zoo membership for you and your familyJohn Ball Zoo1300 Fulton St WGrand Rapids, MI 49504

#J-18808-Ljbffr