Job DescriptionMetro Parks Tacoma (MPT) is a CAPRA-accredited and AZA-accredited, independent park district that leads efforts to build a healthy, sustainable community.  Metro Parks Tacoma is located in Tacoma, Washington. The system is comprised of many different park facilities that offer residents a variety of recreational opportunities. From waterfront access to local neighborhood parks to large regional facilities and attractions, the MPT system is both a local community asset and regional destination.

OUR CORE VALUES
These eight core values will guide future decisions, business and operations, and the manner in which MPT treats staff, customers and the community:
•Innovation    •Excellence     •Equity    •Inclusiveness    •Sustainability   •Accountability •Safety  •Fun

POINT DEFIANCE ZOO & AQUARIUM
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is the only combined zoo and aquarium in the Pacific Northwest. The 29-acre zoological park was established in 1905, and attracts over 800,000 visitors a year. It is nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) and the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums (AMMPA), which ensure rigorously high standards of animal welfare, veterinary care, conservation, education and more. The Zoo sits within 700-acre Point Defiance Park, offering spectacular views of Mount Rainier, the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. Point Defiance Zoo is operated by Metro Parks Tacoma, the oldest independent park district in Washington. For more information, visit www.pdza.org

POSITION INFORMATION
Under the direction of the General Curator, plan, organize and direct the operations of assigned zoological areas; supervise and evaluate the performance of assigned staff.

In the performance of their respective tasks and duties all employees are expected to conform to the following:

• Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.
• Interact professionally with other employees, customers and suppliers
• Work effectively as a team contributor on all assignments.
• Work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other employees, departments and organizations.

Essential DutiesPlan, organize and direct the operations of assigned zoological areas.

Supervise assigned staff to include:  prioritizing and assigning work; conducting performance evaluations, ensuring staff receive training to enhance/augment job skills and provide opportunity for advancement; ensuring that employees follow policies and procedures and assure compliance with health and safety regulations; and making hiring, termination and disciplinary recommendations.

Supervises daily operations, grounds, pools and buildings within assigned area of responsibility.

Monitors the care of animals; establishes the composition of the collection within the assigned area; establishes husbandry standards which meet or exceed accrediting institution standards; oversee or maintain animal record systems; may perform some direct, hands-on animal care work; may participate in animal physicals and research projects.

Monitors animal transactions within assigned area of responsibility to assure compliance with established policies and procedures.  Assure compliance with federal, state and local regulations regarding the acquisition, disposition, health and shipment of animal specimens.  Provide for the acquisition and disposition of animals in accordance to an approved collection plan for the area of responsibility.

Develops the budget for assigned areas of responsibility; monitors budgetary expenditures and revenues; approves purchase orders.

Attends and organizes meetings according to assigned duties.  Maintains contact with and participates in professional organizations, conservation programs, governmental and nongovernmental agencies, the public and other related/interested parties.

Serve on assigned committees, including the Animal Welfare Committee.

In collaboration with Marketing and Public Relations, develops marketing strategies, interpretive materials and other public relations items, including mailings and press releases.

Participates in fund-raising efforts for PDZA.

Plans and executes specials exhibits and/or programs in assigned area of responsibility, including collaboration with Conservation Engagement to develop messaging, graphics and interpretive programs.

Under the direction of the general curator: plans, designs and executes animal research in accordance with PDZA mission and Animal Welfare Committee Guidelines.

Performs other related duties of a comparable level/type as assigned.
Minimum QualificationsEDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor of Science degree in biology, zoology or related field; Master’s degree preferred.  A minimum of five years experience in a zoo (preferably an AZA accredited facility) related to animal care, husbandry, collection management and research.  Demonstrated supervisory skills and knowledge of large carnivore, elephant and hoof stock husbandry skills and best practices including: animal acquisition; animal transport; quarantine; animal health and clinical treatments. Demonstrated knowledge of live animal exhibit design.  Experience in operant conditioning training methods.

LICENSE & OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
Valid Washington State driver’s license with acceptable driving record.
Ability to obtain valid first aid and CPR certification within probationary period.
Must be willing to work evenings, nights, weekends and holidays, and to be on occasional 24-hour call to respond to emergencies.
Additional InformationENVIRONMENT:
Office and outdoor, zoo-site environment.
Driving a vehicle to inspect project status and attend meetings.

PHYSICAL ABILITIES:
Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard and other office equipment.
Sitting and standing for extended periods of time.
Walking to inspect project status.
Hearing and speaking to exchange information and make presentations.
Sight to read, prepare reports and inspect sites.
Lifting and carrying objects or animals weighing up to 50 pounds.
Driving a vehicle.

HAZARDS:
Contact with dissatisfied or abusive individuals.
Exposure to potentially dangerous and sick animals.
Chemicals, tranquilizers or drugs from medications.

METRO PARKS TACOMA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.
All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, political affiliation, disability or any other merit factor. Members of ethnic minorities, women, special disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam-era, recently separated veterans, and other protected veterans, persons of disability and/or persons age 40 and over are encouraged to apply.

MPT employs only U.S. citizens and lawfully authorized non-U.S. citizens. All new employees must show employment eligibility verification as required by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

MPT is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact Human Resource (253) 305-1089 or angelas@tacomaparks.com.

Employment is subject to a national background check.

This position is an at-will position with no written or implied contractual agreement.