Supervisor
About the role
The Queens Zoo is seeking a Supervisor to oversee the day-to-day operations of the Animal Department. Reporting to the Curator, this position manages Assistant Supervisor, Veterinary Technician, Senior Wild Animal Keepers, Wild Animal Keepers, Animal Associates, and Interns.
Responsibilities
Supervise daily care of the animal collection. Provide leadership and instruction to keepers and other animal department staff in the various duties essential for safe and proper care of the animals including implementation of established protocols for care of the animals, exhibits, and associated systems and service areas.
Explain and train staff in changes to procedures and protocols and with the use of new equipment.
Assist the curatorial staff in developing and revising protocols for management and maintenance of the animal collection, exhibits, and associated animal facilities.
Ensure humane treatment and maintain high standards of animal welfare for all animals in the collection in accordance with prescribed policies and procedures. Collaborate with other WCS Animal Department managers to create, implement, and update protocols and procedures to assess and document the wellbeing of animals in our care.
Inspect animal department facilities regularly to ensure established standards are met. Collaborate with Operations staff and Life Support Systems Manager on the operation and management of all LSS systems. Submit work orders as warranted and monitor progress on completion.
Provide leadership in management and assessment of the zoo’s behavioral training program to assist in animal care and enhance welfare. Provide knowledge, leadership, and skills in creating, implementing, and assessing behavior goals and training plans. Provide leadership to teach these skills to other staff members and to ensure compliance with approved training plans.
Provide leadership in management and assessment of the zoo’s enrichment programs to enhance animal welfare. Provide knowledge, leadership and skills in development, documentation, and assessment of enrichment plans in accordance with WCS, AZA, and USDA standards and expectations. Provide leadership to teach these skills to other staff members and to ensure compliance with approved enrichment plans.
Supervise and assist in all animal transfers and maintain appropriate records and reports. Assist Curatorial staff in developing detailed transfer/shipment plans. Transport animals to/from airport or other destination as assigned.
Take a lead role in animal handling and safe animal restraint. Teach skills to other staff as assigned.
Maintain adequate inventories of all supplies, equipment, and animal foods necessary for the operation of the animal department. Understand WCS purchasing processes and become proficient in using SAP and other relevant software used in purchasing.
Provide leadership in creating a positive, professional work environment within the animal department that promotes collaboration, mentorship, and growth.
Audit performance of keeper staff to ensure optimal animal care in accordance with established procedures and protocols. Mentor and coach staff to enhance their skills and to correct deficiencies in their work. Collaborate with Curatorial staff on hiring and disciplinary actions.
Coordinate and lead orientation and training for new department staff and interns in collaboration with the Assistant Supervisor.
Serve on the zoo’s Emergency Response Team.
Represent WCS in a professional manner, establish and maintain positive, effective working relationships with employees, colleagues, City, and other government agencies, outside contractors, and the public.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree with major in biology or a related field with two years of relevant supervisory level experience.
At least five years’ experience in a zoo environment with a record of increasing responsibility.
Independent and critical thinking ability to respond appropriately to expected and unexpected animal care situations. Ability to problem solve based on experience and observation.
Ability to learn life support systems operation.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Fluent in reading, writing, and speaking English. Multilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.
Computer background and proficiency required. Competency in computer skills such as Microsoft Office, SAP, and animal record keeping software.
Ability to obtain a firearms license and participate as a member of the Queens Zoo Emergency Response Team. Must participate in WCS-organized firearms training and practice.
Valid NY, NJ or CT Driver’s license required.
Physical Demands
The physical demands include but are not limited to the use of a Keyboard, 10-key, Mouse, and Telephone Use, Handwriting, Sitting, Standing, Crouching, Kneeling, Bending, Walking, Stair Climbing, minimal Driving, and Lifting up to 50lbs.
Workplace Conditions and Environment
The workplace conditions and environment of the role include working indoors, closely with others, and/or alone, exposure to excess noise, operating power tools and equipment, and use sharp tools and equipment.