Director of Wildlife

Please complete the job application to the best of your ability. Incomplete applications will not be considered. This includes past employment with references.

African Safari Wildlife Park is a drug-free workplace and equal opportunity employer. 

All employees are expected to cross-train in multiple positions.

Director of Wildlife

African Safari Wildlife Park, one of the top family destinations in the Shores & Islands Ohio region, is entering a period of significant growth and investment. Guided by our mission, we are dedicated to inspiring connections between people and wildlife while fostering an appreciation for the natural world.

We’re looking for talented individuals who are passionate about animals, wildlife conservation, and providing amazing guest experiences to embark on this exciting journey with us! Whether you’re an expert in animal care, a leader in guest services, or an advocate for conservation, there’s a place for you on our team.

As the Director of Wildlife, you will take on a senior leadership role overseeing the strategic and operational management of animal care, welfare, and compliance. This position plays a vital role in aligning wildlife programs with the Park’s missions and goals while mentoring a team dedicated to exceptional animal care and guest experiences.

The Essential Functions of the job are to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull, bend, climb stairs and ladders, and carry up to 50 lbs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Animal Welfare:
  
  
  
  • Develop and oversee animal welfare programs, including nutrition, veterinary care, enrichment, and habitat design
  
  
  • Collaborate with veterinary and husbandry teams to ensure health care plans and assist with procedures
  
  
  • Design engaging animal encounters and educational programs
  
  
  
  


• Leadership and Team Management:
  
  
  
  • Supervise and mentor zookeeper staff
  
  
  • Foster professional development and oversee recruitment and hiring processes
  
  
  • Collaborate on staff scheduling and training plans
  
  
  
  


• Regulatory Compliance:
  
  
  
  • Ensure compliance with USDA, ZAA, and other regulations
  
  
  • Maintain permits, licenses, and certifications
  
  
  • Manage inspections and conduct monthly self-audits
  
  
  
  


• Animal Transfers and Acquisitions:
  
  
  
  • Oversee animal transfers, acquisitions, and dispositions
  
  
  • Collaborate with other institutions and coordinate logistics, including transport planning and documentation
  
  
  
  


• Registrar and Administration:
  
  
  
  • Utilize AnimalCare Software and similar systems to maintain records.
  
  
  • Develop long-term plans for the animal collection aligned with the Park’s goals
  
  
  • Manage department budgets and supply procurement
  
  
  
  


• Assist in other departments and with other tasks as assigned

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in animal-related field (such as Zoology, Wildlife Biology, Animal Science) or equivalent experience


• Minimum of 8-10 years in zoo or wildlife management, including leadership roles


• Strong knowledge of ZAA accreditation standards, animal welfare practices, and regulatory compliance


• Experience managing diverse animal collections


• Must be 18 years of age or older and pass pre-employment screening


• Must possess a valid driver’s license with clean driving record and reliable transportation


• Physical ability to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions and perform labor-intensive tasks, including lifting and moving up to 70 pounds


• Must provide a negative TB test and have a recent tetanus shot


• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a positive and collaborative attitude


• Proficiency in record-keeping software and basic office tools


• Willingness to learn new skills and adapt to the park’s unique needs


• Flexible schedule, must work most weekends and holidays

What We Offer:

·       Opportunities for further education and development

·       Team member appreciation days and parties

·       Free admission for yourself and family & friends on your days off

·       In-Park Discounts on retail and select animal encounters

·       Paid Time Off with increasing accrual rates over tenure

·       Subsidized health insurance