Animal Care Supervisor: Lead Welfare & Training

Santa Barbara Zoo; Santa Barbara (CA); On-site; USD 43,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Great team

Free parking

Zoo membership

Professional development

Paid time off

Job summary

The Santa Barbara Zoo is seeking an Animal Care Supervisor to coordinate daily animal care operations, supervise keeper staff, and support mission-focused programs. Under direction of the Zoological Managers, the role oversees welfare, exhibit maintenance, training and enrichment, and collaboration with veterinarians and nutritionists to maintain high standards of animal care and guest experience.

This full-time, on-site position offers a competitive hourly wage and opportunities for

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Life Science such as Biology, Zoology, Ecology, or closely related discipline.
• Minimum three years of experience in routine animal husbandry in a zoo, aquarium, or closely related activity.
• Valid driver’s license with good driving record is desirable; ability to certify in First Aid/CPR/AED; TB test and rabies titer may be required.

Responsibilities

• Supervises direct reports (keepers) with coaching, feedback and annual evaluations.
• Supports day-to-day operations and supervises animal care tasks as assigned.
• Acts as Animal Care/Zone Point of Contact when directed or in manager’s absence.
• Collaborates with veterinarians and nutritionists to ensure high welfare and appropriate nutrition.
• Ensures adherence to AZA, USDA, and related standards and maintains guest experience quality.

Skills

Leadership

Coaching

Team supervision

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Life Science such as Biology, Zoology, Ecology, or closely related discipline

Tools

Two-way radio

Capture equipment

Electric cart

Front loader & forklift

Job description

The Santa Barbara Zoo is seeking an Animal Care Supervisor to coordinate daily animal care operations, supervise keeper staff, and support mission-focused programs. Under direction of the Zoological Managers, the role oversees welfare, exhibit maintenance, training and enrichment, and collaboration with veterinarians and nutritionists to maintain high standards of animal care and guest experience.

This full-time, on-site position offers a competitive hourly wage and opportunities for