Department: Welfare Science

Rate of Pay: $114,478 – $133,560 per year

Duration: Full Time (Permanent)

Hours of Work: 35 hours per week

Number of Positions Open: 1

Looking for a career with a dynamic organization that is committed to protecting wildlife? We are interested in dedicated individuals who are positive, enthusiastic, and passionate about connecting people, animals, conservation science and traditional knowledge to fight extinction. Your Toronto Zoo makes animal well-being a priority in all operations and shows respect for all wildlife.

Apply Online by May 8, 2026.

Position Purpose: Reporting to the Director, Applied Conservation, this position is responsible for developing/overseeing ex situ and reintroduction recovery programs, and assisting with the Animal Lives with Purpose Plan and Lives with Purpose Plan, including, population management/planning with all taxa at the Toronto Zoo; staff mentoring and training; establishing husbandry and welfare standards; works closely with Project Management Office in design and implementation of operating and capital projects; preparing long term plans; conducting research and representing the Zoo within the zoo and conservation community. This position will assist and provide support in implementing the Toronto Zoo Guardians of Wild Strategic Plan and Campus Plan.

Core Role Responsibilities:

• Oversight of Lead Keepers. Working with them to establish and maintain self-sustaining groups of animals including the demographics/genetic management of species within all taxa housed at the Zoo.
• Assists with the development/management of the Toronto Zoo Animal Lives with Purpose Plan and Lives with Purpose Plan, including planning, organizing and recommending the acquisition/disposition of specimens in accordance with Zoo policy.
• Works closely with Project Management and outside consultants in the design, layout and execution of exhibit and holding projects, both operating and capital expenditures, including educational materials and graphics.
• Ensures Toronto Zoo’s conservation programs and population management meet the accreditation standards of AZA, CCAC and OMAFA animal care and housing requirements and comply with standards prescribed by other relevant regulatory agencies.
• Contributes to the development of strategic and campus plans that reflect conservation and population management priorities and programs.
• Participates in regular taxonomic management meetings within the Wildlife Science Division.
• Oversees the development and implementation of key conservation breeding and translocation programs at the Toronto Zoo. Advises the Wildlife Science Division on the prioritization of species based on conservation merit.
• Works closely with Director, Applied Conservation, Director, Managers, Wildlife Care, Wildlife Care Supervisors, Registrar, and Animal Logistics Coordinator in matters of population and facility planning pertaining to the Zoo.
• Works closely with Lead Keepers to support external recovery and conservation initiatives including recovery teams, SSPs, TAGs, and related groups.
• In collaboration with Wildlife Science teams, oversees the selection and distribution of AZA SAFE and Enhancement funds.
• Participates in regular management meetings within the Wildlife Science Division.
• Develops and maintains close liaison with curatorial, scientific, and research staff of other organizations and participates in international, national and regional conservation and research efforts and serves as the institutional representative for selected committees and programs.
• Undertakes and publishes original research on matters relevant to recovery programs, citizen science, and/or conservation social sciences. Prepares and reviews research proposals related to their field. Shares results of research through publication of scientific and popular articles.
• Consults, cooperates, and works closely with all staff of the Wildlife Science Division in animal husbandry and welfare management.
• Establishes policies and procedures for the proper care of specimens, in consultation with other staff.
• Develops and conducts staff and volunteer training and education programs for guests, community, and outside agencies.
• Prepares and administers annual budget for the unit, including the selection and acquisition of materials, equipment, and supplies pertinent to the programs and projects.
• Acquires and administers external funding for programs, in collaboration/consultation with the Toronto Zoo Conservancy as appropriate.
• Participates in public facing activities, such as tours, presentations, media interviews, and special events as a scientific expert and ambassador for the Zoo.
• Participates in interviewing and selection of Division staff including examining, evaluating and upgrading.
• Demonstrates exemplary professional behaviour and promotes and implements the strategic plan and mission of the Toronto Zoo.
• Provides leadership, and coaching/mentoring to all staff in the Division to motivate staff and create a positive work environment.
• Assists guests on-site as required and ensures excellent customer service is provided by Zoo staff.
• Performs special projects and other duties as assigned by Director, Wildlife Planning.

Technical Knowledge and Skills:

• Post graduate degree (PhD preferred) from a recognized institution in an appropriate area of the Biological Sciences and demonstrated expertise in zoology, animal behaviour, or a closely related discipline, or the equivalent amount of training and experience.
• Experience in animal care and the management of animal populations and a working knowledge of their natural history.
• An understanding of the importance of zoo conservation and education work, both locally and internationally.
• A broad knowledge of Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) & Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) standards and practices.
• Experience in a unionized environment is preferred.
• Demonstrated success in publishing research in peer-reviewed journals and securing external funding through collaboration with fundraising partner.
• Ability to research papers, reports and give formal presentation to groups and individuals.
• A proven ability to effectively lead and motivate staff and to lead work teams.
• Possess experience in the preparation and administration of an operating budget.
• Must be knowledgeable in the use of computerized programs and systems, including Microsoft Office 365.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills, along with strong communications skills including excellent writing skills and the ability to speak confidently in public.
• Must have a working knowledge of the Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act and WHMIS legislation.
• Must be able to work weekends and holidays.

While we appreciate the interest of all applicants, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. The successful candidate may be required to provide a police reference check and/or driver’s abstract, at their own expense as a condition of employment. Candidates may be required to take a written and/or practical examination relevant to the position.

Your Toronto Zoo values the importance of inclusive recruitment practices and strives to create a workplace that reflects and celebrates the rich diversity of our city. Please let us know if you require specific accommodations to be in place before you begin the interview process.

Your Toronto Zoo respects the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion and seeks to model these principles in all that we do. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workforce where all employees feel respected, supported and valued. We strive to create an environment that represents the rich diversity of our guests and our community and encourage applications from all qualified individuals who can contribute to enhancing our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Applications are especially encouraged from racialized persons/persons of colour, Indigenous/Aboriginal People of North America, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2S+ persons, and women.

Your Toronto Zoo makes animal well-being a priority in everything we do, respecting wildlife, caring for our team, guest and community. We are a welcoming place to visit, volunteer, and work, united by a shared commitment to conservation, connection, and reconciliation. We blend science and traditional knowledge to protect species and their habitats, and we invite others to join us as Guardians of Wild, acting together to ensure wildlife and wild spaces thrive.

This job posting is for an existing vacancy within our organization.

Your Toronto Zoo uses artificial intelligence to screen, assess or select applicants.

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