Manager of Zoo Operations

Job summary

Lead the Animal Care and Maintenance teams and oversee daily animal care, facilities, safety, compliance, and operational readiness. Manage accreditation, audits, projects, budgets, maintenance planning, and continuous improvements, while coordinating with stakeholders and acting for the Director when needed.

Job details

JMC is pleased to partner with the City of Moncton in recruiting a Manager of Zoo Operations for Magnetic Hill Zoo and Magnetic Hill Park. Home to more than 70 indigenous and exotic species, Magnetic Hill Zoo connects visitors with nature through animal care, education, and conservation. Its 40-acre park offers engaging experiences that inspire an appreciation for wildlife and action for conservation. Role Overview Reporting to the Director, the Manager of Zoo Operations leads the Animal Care and Maintenance teams and oversees daily operations, facilities, safety, and compliance. Working closely with the Director, this individual supports operational planning, capital projects, and continuous improvements that strengthen animal welfare, team effectiveness, and the visitor experience. Key Responsibilities Lead and support the Animal Care and Maintenance teams through coaching, clear expectations, and performance management. Oversee daily animal care, maintenance, facilities, and operational readiness. Ensure operations meet City policies, applicable legislation, and CAZA and AZA accreditation requirements. Coordinate accreditation preparation, audits, safety programs, and emergency response procedures. Manage operational and capital projects, including exhibit improvements, infrastructure renewal, and contractor oversight. Support budget management, maintenance planning, and asset management. Implement process improvements and guide teams through operational changes. Maintain relationships with City departments, regulatory agencies, contractors, and other stakeholders. Act on behalf of the Director during periods of absence. Education and Experience A two-year post-secondary diploma in Animal Sciences, Zoology, Biology, Wildlife, Veterinary-related studies, or a related discipline. Minimum of five years of supervisory experience in an accredited zoo, aquarium, wildlife park, or similar complex public-facing facility, managing animal care and maintenance or facilities functions, including at least three years supervising staff. Relevant education combined with significant operational management experience in an accredited zoo, aquarium, wildlife park, or similar public attraction may be considered. Experience managing accreditation processes and audits, including CAZA and AZA requirements. Experience overseeing operational and capital projects, maintenance programs, contractors, and budgets. Demonstrated experience leading unionized teams, including performance management, labour relations, conflict resolution, and employee engagement. Experience with operational safety, emergency response, compliance, and process improvement. Bilingualism is a core value of the City of Moncton, and preference may be given to candidates who can communicate effectively in both English and French. Compensation: $107,000–$130,000, based on education and experience. This position involves office and outdoor work, with flexibility required to meet operational needs and respond to emergencies during evenings, weekends, and holidays. Questions can be directed to Katie O’Neil at katie@teamjmc.ca. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

What you’ll do

Lead the Animal Care and Maintenance teams and oversee daily animal care, facilities, safety, compliance, and operational readiness. Manage accreditation, audits, projects, budgets, maintenance planning, and continuous improvements, while coordinating with stakeholders and acting for the Director when needed.

Requirements

Requires a two-year post-secondary diploma in animal sciences, zoology, biology, wildlife, veterinary-related studies, or a related discipline, plus at least five years of supervisory experience in an accredited zoo, aquarium, wildlife park, or similar facility, including three years supervising staff. Candidates should also have experience with CAZA and AZA accreditation, projects, maintenance, contractors, budgets, unionized teams, labour relations, safety, emergency response, compliance, and process improvement.

Listed skills

• Team Leadership · Preferred
• Facilities Management · Preferred
• Project management · Preferred
• Asset Management · Preferred
• Conflict Resolution · Preferred
• Process Improvement · Preferred

Other relevant skills

Identified from the job description. Confirm important requirements above.

• Team Leadership
• Animal Care Operations
• Facilities Management
• Maintenance Planning
• Accreditation Management
• Audit Coordination
• Project Management
• Capital Project Management
• Budget Management
• Asset Management
• Performance Management
• Labour Relations
• Conflict Resolution
• Operational Safety
• Emergency Response
• Process Improvement

Job areas

• Management & Leadership
• Environmental & Sustainability
• Government & Public Sector
• Hospitality
• Security & Safety

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