Executive Zoo Director (AZA-Accredited)

City of El Paso, TX; El Paso (TX); On-site; USD 160,000 - 175,000; Full time

Job summary

City of El Paso is seeking a Zoo Director to lead zoological operations, animal care, conservation, and education programs at multiple City locations. The ideal candidate will hold a bachelor’s degree or higher in zoo management, veterinary medicine, business, or public administration, and have at least eight years of zoological experience including four in management.

A Texas Class C license is required. The role requires strategic planning, budgeting, fundraising, and strong leadership to

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in zoo management, veterinary medicine, business or public administration or related field.
• Minimum eight years of zoological operation experience, including four years in management.
• Valid Texas Class “C” Driver’s License or equivalent by date of appointment.

Responsibilities

• Provide executive leadership for Zoo operations including animal care, conservation, education, guest services, facilities, safety, and capital planning.
• Ensure the Zoo maintains accreditation with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and lead accreditation preparation and compliance.
• Develop and implement strategic plans aligning Zoo priorities with City goals and economic development objectives.
• Prepare and administer the Zoo’s operating and capital budgets; manage revenues, expenditures, grants, and fundraising activities.
• Serve as primary liaison to the City Manager, City Council, and community stakeholders with regular reporting.
• Oversee personnel management including recruitment, development, performance evaluation, and succession planning.
• Lead long-range capital planning for exhibits, infrastructure, and facilities for regulatory compliance and visitor experience.
• Represent the Zoo at conferences, accreditation meetings, and public events; cultivate partnerships with conservation organizations.

Skills

Zoo operations

Leadership

Budget management

Public administration

Fundraising

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher in zoo management, veterinary medicine, business or public administration or related field

Job description

City of El Paso is seeking a Zoo Director to lead zoological operations, animal care, conservation, and education programs at multiple City locations. The ideal candidate will hold a bachelor’s degree or higher in zoo management, veterinary medicine, business, or public administration, and have at least eight years of zoological experience including four in management.

A Texas Class C license is required. The role requires strategic planning, budgeting, fundraising, and strong leadership to