Current Job Opportunities

Position

Curator of Horticulture

Location

Franklin Park/Stone Zoo

Department

Horticulture

Reports To

Chief Operating Officer

Essential Job Functions

Oversees, develops, and curates a living collection of plants to meet the needs of animal exhibits, display gardens, plant conservation priorities, and the overall landscapes of both Franklin Park and Stone Zoos. Exercises direct supervision of Horticulture Supervisor, Horticulturists, Landscapers, Interns and Volunteers, as assigned.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Prepares and plans for planting and display of flowers, plants, tropical plants, flowering shrubs and trees, including formal gardens to ensure the beautification of exhibits and public areas.
• Develops and oversees plant conservation programs.
• Establishes and implements Departmental and staff performance goals that support the organization’s mission and Strategic Plan.
• Develops and oversees Horticulture Department budget.
• Responsible for hiring, promotion, termination and performance evaluations for department staff.
• Oversees the care and installation of the interior landscapes at Franklin Park Zoo.
• Oversees and assists in the design, planting, and maintenance of flowers, plants, shrubs and trees; determines and advises personnel of the best methods of planting, pruning, IPM, and other horticultural practices.
• Generates staff schedules, prepares and submits payroll records.
• Prepares budget requests for assigned activities based on projected needs; purchase plants, seeds, and soils, etc, for use in gardens and exhibits.
• Maintains liaisons between local garden clubs, horticultural societies, city and state agencies, and zoological institutions to exchange information and/or solve problems.
• Determines needs and assigns workers to specific tasks as relates to the requests and activities of the Horticulture Department.
• Directs all aspects of plant maintenance including: watering, fertilizing, pruning, transplanting, and propagation.
• Oversees and administers IPM as needed.
• Prepares written reports as needed.
• Supervises and coordinates volunteers.
• Oversees care and maintenance of all department vehicles, machinery and equipment.
• Participates in the development and implementation of horticultural educational and interpretive programs for zoo guests and staff.
• Oversees operation of the zoo greenhouse.
• Oversees all landscape construction.
• Purchases parts, tools, materials and plants as needed.
• Provides quality customer service to both internal and external customers.
• Interacts with and answers questions of zoo guests by providing information about the zoo and acts as good-will ambassador for the Zoo.
• Operates two-way radio responsibly and professionally.
• Coordinates and collaborates with the Facilities Department for snow removal.
• Is “On-Call” 24 hours a day, seven days a week for zoo emergencies.
• Performs related and non-related work as assigned to assure the proper operation of the Zoo.

Minimum Job Requirements

• College degree in horticulture or related science and/or a minimum of 5 years’ professional experience in the field of Horticulture, Landscaping or Zoological Horticulture.
• Must have a minimum of 5 years supervisory experience.
• Must have a negative TB test.
• Must have experience with budget development and management.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally verbally and in writing.
• Knowledge and experience of the principals, practices, and techniques of horticulture in a Zoological setting.
• Knowledge of and experience with the materials and equipment used in horticulture.
• Ability to supervise. This includes: planning and assigning work, assessing employees' capabilities and available resources, conducting evaluations, training and motivating employees, conducting corrective action as needed.
• Ability to analyze and determine the applicability of horticultural data, to draw conclusions, and make appropriate recommendations.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and prepare general reports.
• Ability to communicate effectively and give oral instructions in a precise, understandable manner.
• Knowledge and experience of the safety practices and procedures followed in horticultural operations.
• Knowledge and experience with greenhouse operations.
• Knowledge and experience with plant propagation techniques.
• Knowledge and experience with the varieties and uses of ornamental trees, shrubs and flowers.
• Knowledge and experience with soils and the conditions needed to foster the growth of trees, shrubs and flowers.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• Must be able to work weekdays, weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed.
• Ability to maintain harmonious working relationships with others.
• Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds.
• Must be able to work under adverse conditions including adverse weather and heights.

Working Conditions

• Outdoors under exposure to all types of weather conditions.
• Frequently need to bend, stoop, climb, kneel and lift.
• Frequent requirement to lift moderate to heavy objects.
• Work on uneven terrain with exposure to dust and allergens.
• Move about on slippery surfaces.
• Work at elevated heights and confined spaces.

Location

Franklin Park Zoo

Department

Development

Reports To

V.P. of Development, Leadership Giving and Operations

Essential Job Functions

The Development Assistant helps to build private support for Zoo New England by providing administrative support to the development department including, but not limited to, gift processing, record keeping, mailing coordination, and event support.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Process charitable gifts (including copying, filing, and entering into Raiser’s Edge)
• Produce timely acknowledgment letters and coordinate mailings
• Maintain all development filing systems
• Prepare weekly check deposits
• Update credit card log on a regular basis
• Provide assistance to accounting department with requests for gift documentation or reports
• Maintain and update donor and prospect database in Raiser’s Edge
• Coordinate logistics for committee meetings and compose minutes
• Assist in the planning and implementation of development events
• Attend development events and relevant committee meetings, including some evenings and weekends
• Work closely with development team, and particularly with Manager of Annual Giving & Development Operations
• Support priorities set by the Vice President of Development
• Other duties as required

Minimum Job Requirements

• Minimum of two years of experience in an administrative position
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, and strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding donor information
• Strong attention to detail; ability to be a self-starter and to multi-task
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Raiser’s Edge data entry

Preferred Job Requirements

• Familiarity with Raiser’s Edge software functionality and data management protocols
• Experience in fundraising environments, particularly those supporting membership and/or cultural institutions
• Strong commitment to the mission of Zoo New England
• Positive attitude and a sense of humor

Location 

Franklin Park Zoo                       

Department

Education      

Reports To

Senior Education Program Manager

Duration

Seasonal/Full-time

Essential Job Functions

The Interpreter is responsible for presenting educational information to visitors at the Zoos’ exhibits, events, programs, and through animal encounters. They will also help assisting in animal encounters for summer programming.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Assist guests in learning about Zoo New England's exhibits, programs, etc.
• Act as a goodwill guide by answering visitor questions
• Provides excellent customer service and positive interactions with all Zoo guests and employees.
• Staff "Exploration Stations" stocked with biofacts and activities at specific zoo locations
• Assist with education programs as needed, including member programs, events, tours and camp
• Assist staffing our butterfly exhibit
• Work closely with Education volunteers and interns and ZooTeens
• Assume other duties as assigned by the Education Program Manager

Minimum Job Requirements

• Must be 18 years or older
• Available to work 40 hours per week (8 hours/day) including Saturday &/or Sunday
• Ability to address audiences of all ages
• A background in environmental studies or a related field
• Ability to provide excellent customer service to ZNE customers, clients, and employees
• Excellent oral presentation skills
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team
• A strong desire to deliver ZNE’s messages, mission, and goals to our visitors
• Reliable transportation to and from work
• Willingness to spend long periods of time outdoors
• Ability to lift 50 pounds and walk over uneven terrain

Preferred Job Requirements

• Previous experience working with children
• Previous experience with theater or drama
• Bilingual
• Previous interpretation experience

Hours an Term of Appointment

Hours: 8:30am-5:00pm on weekdays and 9:00am-5:30 p.m. on weekends 5 days/week including Saturday &/or Sunday

Location: Franklin Park Zoo

Term: maximum of 14.5 weeks, May-August

Location

Stone Zoo

Department

Education

Reports To

Education Program Manager

Duration

Seasonal Full-Time

Essential Job Functions

The Interpreter is responsible for presenting educational information to visitors at the Zoos’ exhibits, events, programs, and interpretive centers. They will also help with assisting in animal encounters for summer programming.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Assist guests in learning about Zoo New England's exhibits, programs, etc.
• Act as a goodwill guide by answering visitor questions
• Provide excellent customer service and positive interactions with all Zoo guests and employees
• Staff the Animal Discovery Center (ADC), interpret exhibits for visitors to the Zoo, and facilitate guest interactions with biofacts, exhibits, and hands-on activities
• Assist with education programs as needed, including member programs, events, tours, and camp
• Assist with animal care, cleaning, and basic husbandry as needed for the ambassador animal collection
• Work closely with Education volunteers, interns, and camp staff
• Assume other duties as assigned by the Education Program Manager

Minimum Job Requirements

• Must be 18 years or older
• Available to work 40 hours per week (8 hours/day) including Saturday and/or Sunday
• Ability to address audiences of all ages
• A background in environmental studies or a related field
• Ability to provide excellent customer service to ZNE customers, clients, and employees
• Excellent oral presentation skills
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team
• A strong desire to deliver ZNE’s messages, mission, and goals to our visitors
• Reliable transportation to and from work
• Willingness to spend long periods of time outdoors
• Ability to lift 50 pounds and walk over uneven terrain

Preferred Job Requirements

• Previous experience working with children
• Previous interpretation experience
• Current CPR / First Aid certification
• Bilingual

Hours and Term of Appointment

Hours: 8:30am-5:00pm on weekdays and 9:00am-5:30pm on weekends 5 days/week including Saturday and/or Sunday

Term: Maximum of 14.5 weeks, May-August

Location

Franklin Park Zoo

Department

Education

Reports To

Education Program Manager

Essential Job Functions

The Education Specialist (ES) will design and conduct education programs for members, students, and other special-interest groups at the Zoos and in the community. The ES will prepare the schedule of Wild Adventure programming for members, ages toddler through adult. The ES will also play an important role in the administration of family and early childhood programming including teaching and updating the content in response to participant feedback. The ES will also be responsible for the Zoo’s Nature Play site, including the development of curriculum and the creation of new nature play activities. The ES will participate in overnight programming at both Zoos. The ES will be expected to conduct, on average, 1 overnight program per month. Specific responsibilities include:

Duties & Responsibilities

• Developing and evaluating education programs according to the following criteria: educational value, cost-effectiveness, community needs
• Conducting day and nighttime education programs at the Zoos, local schools, and community centers
• Developing and conducting programs for registered participants and casual visitors
• Development of materials and activities for use on grounds by visitors and school groups
• Development and implementation of early childhood programming and on-site activity stations
• Work with Education Administrative Specialist to develop and implement marketing materials and plan for Wild Adventure and other programs
• Building relationships with school districts, scouts, Zoo members, and other area cultural institutions
• Certification in CPR/AED and First Aid, proof of negative TB, function as institutional first responder
• Regularly scheduled hours will be 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. However, work outside of regularly scheduled hours will be required. Work will be based out of Franklin Park Zoo, but the Education Specialist will travel to Stone Zoo for monthly meetings and whenever necessary.  
• All other duties assigned

Minimum Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental education or a related field
• Minimum 2 years experience as an informal science/environmental educator
• Previous experience working with young children, ages 18 months – 5 years
• Excellent computer skills including Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, and Publisher
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and in writing)
• Outstanding customer service skills; able to represent Zoo New England at all levels with professionalism and pride
• Ability to address student groups of all ages and aptitudes
• Flexible team player; ability to work well with Zoo New England staff, project partners, and program participants
• Knowledge of current teaching trends in the environmental education field
• Experience with curriculum development, program implementation, and evaluation
• Ability to multi-task as part of a fast-paced team
• Appreciation of ZNE’s mission and goals
• Valid driver’s license and a driver in good standing; regular use of personal vehicle for travel to off-site programs
• Able to lift 50 pounds and walk over uneven terrain and in all weather
• Current First Responder & or CPR/AED certification

Preferred Job Requirements 

• Bi-lingual 
• Familiarization with National, State, and City education standards
• Previous experience in a formal science education setting
• Previous experience handling and presenting live animals
• Previous experience working with inner city youth  

The Executive Assistant is responsible for providing administrative support to ZNE's President & CEO. He/she will perform complex administrative work requiring a high degree of independent decision making in conformance with ZNE policies and procedures. Requires superior interpersonal, writing skills and telephone etiquette. Self-motivation, ability to work in a fast-paced environment and effective prioritization of workload are also requirements of the position.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Manage the President's calendar
• Arrange President's business travel
• Assist with planning and managing budget for executive office
• Act as liaison to staff
• Act as Board Secretary

Minimum Job Requirements:

• Three plus years of previous Executive Assistant experience.
• The ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment
• The ability to work with Board members in a positive and productive manner
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Suite applications
• Ability to draft and prepare correspondence, proposals and reports

Location

Franklin Park/Stone Zoo

Department

Facilities

Reports To

Custodial Services Supervisor, Facilities Manager         

Essential Job Functions

Performs routine manual tasks in connection with the maintenance, care, upkeep, repair and beautification of parks and roadways. Cleans buildings, grounds and performs manual labor tasks required as part of the operation of the zoos.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Perform the cleaning, re-stocking of restrooms and office facilities throughout the parks.
• Perform routine tours throughout the parks collecting trash.
• Report any repairs needed to the Facilities Supervisors.
• Set-up and knockdown facilities for Special Events.
• Will require working in all types of weather and will require snow removal.
• May require the ability to perform minor repairs or maintenance duties such as painting, etc.
• Drive to various locations in park and haul animal waste and trash to dumpsters.
• Perform routine tours throughout the parks emptying barrels and picking up trash (and recycle products).
• May require washing windows.

Minimum Job Requirements

• Candidate must have a minimum of 2 years’ experience in Custodial service or similar manual labor.
• Must have the ability to communicate in English verbally.
• Must have a valid Massachusetts driver’s license.
• Must be available for 24 hour on-call, as required.
• Must be able to work and travel to either Zoo as required.
• Ability to lift and carry items up to 50 lbs.
• Perform all other duties, such as snow removal, moving office furniture, as may be required.

Temperate Location

Franklin Park Zoo/Stone Zoo

Department

Horticulture

Reports To

Curator of Horticulture

Essential Job Functions

Oversees the care and installation of the exterior gardens and landscapes at both Franklin Park and Stone Zoo. Supervise volunteers, community service workers, seasonal employees, and interns on an assigned basis.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Oversees the care and installation of the exterior gardens and landscapes at both Franklin Park Zoo and Stone Zoo.
• Provide quality customer service to both internal and external customers.
• Participates in all aspects of landscape construction and exhibit construction as pertains to the landscape.
• Plants trees, shrubs, plants, flowers, bulbs, seed and sod.
• Participates in the development and implementation of educational and interpretive programs relating to the temperate plant collection for Zoo staff and guests.
• Participates in the development and implementation of browse/toxic plant program with Zookeepers.
• Administers IPM as needed.
• Coordinates pick-up or delivery of plant donations.
• Submits proposals for development and improvements to temperate collections, exhibits or botanical displays.
• Develops conservation programs that relate to temperate plant collections.
• Waters trees, shrubs, plants and flowers utilizing irrigation systems, sprinklers, hoses or by hand.

Working Conditions

• Outdoors under exposure to all types of weather conditions.
• Frequently need to bend, stoop, climb, kneel and lift.
• Frequent requirement to lift moderate to heavy objects.
• Work on uneven terrain with exposure to dust and allergens.
• Move about on slippery surfaces.
• Work at elevated heights and confined spaces.
• Handle toxic and/or hazardous materials.
• Work in confined or cramped spaces.
• Frequent exposure and close contact with a variety of animals including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and insects.

Minimum Job Requirements

• College degree in Horticulture or related science and/or 3-5 years' professional experience in the field of horticulture or landscaping or some combination thereof.
• Ability to provide quality customer service to both internal and external customers.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally in writing and verbally.
• Ability to work under conditions including adverse weather and heights.
• Must have a negative result on a TB test.
• Must have the ability and willingness to work independently and as a team member.
• Must have a valid driver's license.
• Must be able to work weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.
• Must have a good work history.
• Ability to perform heavy manual labor.

Location

Franklin Park Zoo and Stone Zoo

Department

Horticulture                       

Reports To

Curator, Horticulture   

Essential Job Functions

Supervises seasonal employees, volunteers, community service workers and apprentice horticulturists on an as assigned basis.

Pay Rate

$12.75/hour

Duties & Responsibilities

• Participates in the installation and maintenance of the landscapes at both the Franklin Park and Stone Zoos.
• Participates in all aspects of landscape construction and exhibit construction as pertains to the landscape.
• Plants trees, shrubs, plants, flowers, bulbs, seed and sod, as directed.
• Prepares planting areas, installs walls, fences, pathways, irrigation systems and water features, as directed.
• Waters trees, shrubs, plants and flowers utilizing irrigation systems, sprinklers, hoses, or by hand.
• Performs all aspects of plant maintenance including:  weeding, dead-heading, pruning, fertilizing, transplanting, dividing, propagation, mulching and winterizing.
• Performs all aspects of grounds maintenance including: raking, sweeping, blowing, trash collection, snow removal, sanding and salting, mowing, edging and grading.
• Operates machinery including:  mowers, hedgers, weed-whackers, chainsaws, snow throwers, roto-tillers, skid-steer loaders, backhoe-loaders, tractors and sod cutters.
• Assists in the collection and transport of purchased or donated trees, plants and flowers.
• Assists in the supervision of Community Service groups, Seasonal employees, Volunteers and Interns.
• Monitors Zoo grounds to make sure they are safe, clean, attractive and comfortable for Zoo guests and staff.
• Purchases parts and materials, as directed.
• Interacts with and answers questions of Zoo guests by providing information about the Zoo and acts as a Good-Will Ambassador for the Zoo.
• Operates two-way radio responsibly and professionally.
• Attends training and education programs and seminars.
• Works outside in all weather.
• Performs related or non-related work as assigned to assure the proper operation of the Zoo.

Minimum Job Requirements

• Some basic knowledge of landscaping and horticultural principles and practices.
• Ability to provide quality customer service to both internal and external customers.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to work under conditions including adverse weather and heights.
• Ability to operate machinery.
• Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds.
• Must have a negative result on a TB test.
• Must have the ability and willingness to work independently and as a team member.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and a good driving record.
• Must be able and willing to work weekends, holidays and overtime, as needed.
• Must have a good work history.
• Ability to perform heavy manual labor.

Location

Franklin Park / Stone Zoo

Department(s)

Guest Experience

Reports To

Guest Experience Supervisor

Pay Rate

$12/hour

Essential Job Functions

As a Guest Experience Associate you will be responsible for additional programing and revenue facilitated by the Admissions & Membership area of the Guest Experience Department. Zoo New England takes pride in our workplace environment as well as our family friendly atmosphere. Therefore, our Guest Experience Associates are expected to bring their friendly personality to work while providing exceptional customer service to Zoo guests. Guest Experience Associates will conduct themselves in a professional manner while communicating and providing service to our guests, team members and visitors. The goal is to ensure that our work environment is safe and inviting. The ability to handle and monitor cash/credit sales for the purpose of receiving fees and tracking revenue is essential. Must be able to work outdoors and in inclement weather elements common to winter, spring, summer and fall. Responsibilities include greeting Zoo guests with a smile and welcoming attitude, accurately tracking attendance and sales of Zoo guests through our admissions gate, proactively selling ZNE membership packages, and operating a variety of family-friendly and fun amusement rides in accordance with MA state safety laws & procedures; some of which may require a valid driver’s license.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Ability to answer guest questions in a polite and friendly manner.
• Ability to follow safety procedures outlined by Zoo New England.
• Provide the highest level of customer service to Zoo guests.
• Operate a variety of amusement rides in a safe manner.
• Be knowledgeable of basic zoo operations, including safety procedures & animal collections.
• Inspect rides before operating to ensure that they are clean and functioning properly.
• Accurately process and track Zoo guests at entrance.
• Proactively sell ZNE membership packages.
• Accurately track fees collected from assigned revenue areas by correctly following departmental protocol.
• Follow ZNE’s cash handling policies.
• Be knowledgeable about ZNE’s membership program.
• Attend departmental meetings to receive updates about the Zoos, our collection, coming attractions and programs.
• Relieve other co-workers for lunch breaks as needed.
• Flexibility with work hours based on Zoo activity levels.
• Must report to work on time, in proper uniform, and with a positive attitude.

Minimum Job Requirements

• Must enjoy working in a fun workplace environment that is family friendly.
• Available to work based on seasonal fluctuations and Zoo activity levels.
• Ability to work some weekends and holidays.
• Ability to work outdoors and in inclement weather elements common to winter, spring, summer and fall.
• Knowledge of and commitment to quality customer service standards.
• Warm and friendly personality.
• Fluency in the English Language (reading & writing).
• Ability to work independently and cooperatively in a variety of situations while dealing with the public.

Preferred Job Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Second language is a plus.
• At least 2 years of cash handling experience with credit card processing.
• Per MA state law, must be at least 18 years of age to operate amusement rides.
• Ability to work in a diverse work environment and with a diverse guest population.
• Excellent attendance record.
• Valid driver’s license.
• One year of Hospitality or Retail experience.
• Previous work experience in guest experience environment.

Hours and Term of Appointment

• Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. on weekdays and 9:30am-6:30pm on weekends
• Term: Six Months; March – August, April – September or May - October

Location

Franklin Park Zoo/Stone Zoo

Department

Security

Reports To

Safety & Site Supervisor

Essential Job Functions

• Responsible for the safety and security of ZNE’s visitors, staff, collection, and property.
• The ability to abide by and utilize security protocols as identified.
• Successful completion of all departmental training.
• Ability to complete required security forms and logs in an accurate and timely fashion.
• Must be able to effectively communicate with Zoo New England employees, guests, and vendors while providing safety and security related services.
• Must have a professional, pleasant and respectful demeanor in the course of providing safety & security services to employees, guests, and vendors.
• Responsible for enforcing company policies throughout the Zoos as required.
• Must be able to work at both the Franklin Park Zoo in Boston and the Stone Zoo in Stoneham, MA.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Enforce all Company policies and procedures and report all violations to immediate supervisor.
• Enforce all Company traffic rules and issue traffic tickets.
• Maintain a highly visible patrol of Zoo grounds.
• Issue and maintain employee IDs.
• Maintain a professional appearance and attitude at all times.
• Write clear and concise Incident Reports, complete Daily Activity Logs.
• Escort or drive a motor vehicle to transport money and valuables to prevent theft and ensure safe delivery.
• Follow all departmental policies / procedures and orders.
• Respond to all emergencies.
• Work holidays, weekends and nights.
• Assist guests and staff, as necessary.
• Report all safety / fire hazards to the Safety & Security Manager or Safety & Security Supervisor through Daily Activity Log.
• Participate in all departmental and Zoo wide meetings & training programs.
• Lock/unlock buildings or gates, as needed.
• Perform any additional duties as required by the Safety & Security Manager or Supervisor
• Ability to work in adverse weather conditions for prolonged periods of time.
• Notify appropriate personnel and departments of incidents and/or problems.
• Report any and all situations that are out-of-the-norm.
• Report any safety or hazards concerns to Safety and Security Supervisor.

Working Conditions

• Working in an office setting, use of a computer, printer, copier, and other office equipment, the ability to sit, and stand for significant periods of time on continuous bases.
• Use of hands and fingers to operate office equipment.
• The ability to lift up to 50 lbs., push, pull, and bend.
• The ability to work outdoors in weather common to winter, spring summer and fall.
• The ability to walk on several different surfaces as presented in a Zoo environment.
• The ability to run in emergency situations.
• Good vision, hearing, and speaking abilities.
• Ability to drive several types of vehicles on behalf of ZNE, including a golf cart.

Minimum Job Requirements

• Must be dependable, trustworthy, reliable, and have a good moral character.
• Able to communicate effectively, both written and verbally.
• Ability to follow directions, both written and verbal. Capable of making sound judgments.
• Must remain alert at all times while on duty.
• An understanding of the use of a two-way radio system.
• Ability to maintain emotional control in all situations.
• Ability to remain calm in an emergency/crisis situation.
• Strong computer skills.
• Confident in own abilities to perform the duties required.
• Valid Driver’s license in good standing.
• Comply with ZNE Defensive Driving Training as required by ZNE’s liability insurance carrier.
• High School diploma or GED
• Must respond to emergency calls promptly and professionally.

Preferred Job Requirements

• Meet all of the minimum requirements.
• 3 years’ experience in Security, Law Enforcement or Military.
• Capable of deductive reasoning.
• Current First Responder and CPR certifications.
• Report-writing experience.

Department

Animal Care

Location

Franklin Park Zoo/Stone Zoo

Reports to

Chief Operating Officer

Essential Job Functions

Manages the Animal Care Department of the Franklin Park and Stone Zoo. Develops and implements procedures for the care of the animal collection and staff. Provides leadership for the Animal Care Department and all Animal Care staff, ensuring a healthy, productive, and positive work environment while functioning as a leader and team member within Zoo New England as a whole. Directs the development of the animal collection, with input from the Animal Management Committee, according to the objectives of ZNE’s strategic plan.

Duties & Responsibilities

1. Formulates and implements proper animal management practices and programs, including producing Institutional Collection Plans (ICP) that meet or exceed AZA accreditation requirements. Updates these plans as needed.
2. Develops ICP’s in accordance with ZNE conservation priorities. Assists with establishing those priorities, while coordinating with other ZNE departments, integrating conservation research and appropriate conservation messaging through all levels of public interaction i.e. exhibit interpretation, education programming, and marketing. Ensures ZNE is continuously building a dynamic collection that meets all the needs of the organization.
3. Establishes schedules and collaborates with other departments to ensure that exhibits are dynamic and engaging for guests.
4. Responsible for Departmental budget development and management.
5. Directs and coordinates in-house components of AZA conservation programs; Studbooks, Species Survival Plans, Taxon Advisory Groups, and Conservation Action Partnerships. Appropriately delegates ZNE representation with subordinate staff in order to increase ZNE’s participation and leadership within AZA.
6. Is active in providing leadership of AZA WCMC programs.
7. Creates and supports opportunities for departmental staff members’ professional development.
8. Chairs Animal Management Committee meetings and ensures that these meetings are productive. Actively solicits input from all participants
9. Develops professional relationships with outside experts and specialists in order to have the best information available when making management decisions.
10. Ensures proper planning of animal transfers and coordinates with veterinarians for planning of complicated medical procedures.
11. Collaborates with Director of Animal Health and Conservation Medicine to establish policies regarding animal health decisions in the best interest of individual animals and the collection overall to ensure the highest level of animal care and welfare.
12. Ensures proper genetic and demographic management of the collection.
13. Represents the institution in animal-related matters in public and in media situations as needed.
14. Directs and coordinates short & long-range planning and development of the collection for the Animal Care Department.
15. Interfaces with and functions as a team member with all other Departments to ensure coordination, cooperation and synergies.
16. Provides expertise and input to the Executive team on animal related issues on a regular and ongoing basis through oral and written reports.
17. Monitors, evaluates, and directs actions in the design, maintenance, repair, and enhancement of animal quarters, buildings, exhibits, and surrounding grounds.
18. Provides input, assistance, and oversees personnel matters within the Department. Ensures all departmental staff management is conducted in compliance with all legal / regulatory requirements and ZNE policies and procedures.
19. Plans, coordinates, and assists in a variety of procedures related to the proper function of the Department.
20. Directs and coordinates Curators, Director of Animal Resources, and Registrar in developing and effecting policies, programs, and procedures.
21. Practices and qualifies with firearms in accordance with ZNE policies and procedures.
22. Becomes trained as a team leader in the Dangerous Animal Recovery Team, and proficient in handling animal capture equipment and immobilization drugs. Participates in animal escape drills.
23. Participates as a member and / or leader of ZNE’s Research Review Committee, and encourages scientific study to benefit development of sustainable animal collections, animal care and welfare, species and habitat conservation, conservation education and public engagement, while ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare.
24. Develops proficiency with the Incident Command System, and ensures departmental readiness for emergency response.
25. Supports and ensures progressive animal training and environmental enrichment for the animal collection.
26. Ensures compliance with all Federal, State, and local laws and regulations.
27. Ensures meaningful, scheduled and unscheduled staff interactions with guests that support ZNE’s strategic plan.
28. Supports, practices and enforces ZNE’s sustainability policies and procedures.
29. Performs related work as required.

Working Conditions

• Frequent exposure and close contact with a variety of animals including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and insects.
• Frequently need to bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and lift.
• Frequent requirements to move moderate to heavy objects.
• Work in uneven terrain with exposure to varying weather conditions, dust, and allergens.
• Move about on slippery surfaces.
• Handle toxic and / or hazardous materials.
• Work in confined or cramped spaces.
• May work from an elevated position. Must be willing and able to take lead role in supervision during emergencies; and cope with high stress situations, e.g., the recapture of escaped animals or emergency assistance to guests as directed.

Minimum Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in zoology, biology or related field. Ten years progressive experience in an AZA accredited facility managing various animal taxa, six years of which must have been in progressive levels of supervisory positions.  
• Possesses and displays professional expertise in animal management and conservation.
• Possesses deep familiarity with related AZA programs and demonstrated experience in leading and working within them.
• Possesses and conveys great enthusiasm for the organizational mission, strategic plan, and the work of the Animal Care Department.  
• Possesses a strong knowledge of AZA accreditation standards and expectations.
• TB tested negative before starting and tested yearly thereafter.  Acceptance of zoonotic disease prevention protocols as mandated by Zoo New England, including vaccinations for rabies & hepatitis, prophylactics, fecal screens, serum storage, etc.
• Must have no criminal history or convictions, in relations to animal-related issues or child welfare.
• Must possess a valid drivers' license and be able to lawfully drive in Massachusetts.
• Must have demonstrated skills in all aspects of captive animal management, budget management, and exhibit design.
• Commitment to excellence, continuous improvement, creativity, innovation, and teamwork.
• Must have strong leadership, organizational and communication skills and be willing and able to participate effectively in a team management approach.
• Must possess or be eligible to obtain a Massachusetts Firearms Identification card or License to carry firearms by the end of the six month introductory period, in order to be an active participant in ZNE’s Dangerous Animal Recovery Team.

Preferred Job Requirements

• Bi-lingual with Spanish language
• Strong herp/bird experience
• Advanced degree(s) in related field
• Experience with conceiving, leading, and participating in species conservation projects and conservation research.
• Experience with design and implementation of research using scientific method.
• Experience as an AZA inspector.