Visionary Zoo Director: Lead Operations & Conservation

City of Boise; Boise (ID); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Boise seeks a visionary Zoo Director to lead Zoo Boise, shaping strategy and guiding a high-performing team toward excellence in animal care, conservation, and education.

The successful candidate will ensure operations, financial stewardship, facilities planning and long-range development while upholding AZA accreditation standards and federal regulations. Strong business acumen and change leadership are essential to translate vision into measurable results for the community.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biological sciences, business management or equivalent.
• Five years of leadership, animal biology and business management experience in a zoo or aquarium.
• Knowledge of laws and regulations related to zoo operations and safety.
• Municipal finance, budgeting, and nonprofit management basics.

Responsibilities

• Plan, organize and direct the activities of Zoo Boise and related community partners.
• Develop short- and long-range plans to support the mission and goals.
• Lead fundraising, community relationships, and board collaboration.
• Ensure compliance with AZA accreditation standards and animal care regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Fundraising

AZA knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in biological sciences or business management

Job description

The City of Boise seeks a visionary Zoo Director to lead Zoo Boise, shaping strategy and guiding a high-performing team toward excellence in animal care, conservation, and education.

The successful candidate will ensure operations, financial stewardship, facilities planning and long-range development while upholding AZA accreditation standards and federal regulations. Strong business acumen and change leadership are essential to translate vision into measurable results for the community.