Elephant Assistant Manager

Summary:
This position will assist with the direction, management, supervision and coordination of the activities and operations of the Elephant Department of the zoo; to coordinate assigned activities with other divisions, outside agencies and the general public; and to provide highly responsible and complex staff assistance to the Elephant Manager.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Assist with the management responsibility for assigned services and activities of the Elephant Department within the Zoo
• Assist the Elephant Manager in the development and implementation of goals, objectives, policies and priorities for assigned programs; recommend and administer policies and procedures
• Continuously monitor and evaluate the quality, responsiveness, efficiency, and effectiveness of elephant management, work with elephant staff on the continuous improvement of elephant care, handling, training and procedures
• Assist with directing the husbandry and care of elephants, and greater one-horned rhinoceros in and around existing spaces; coordinate cleaning, sanitizing, maintenance and repair of animal spaces
• Oversee the implementation and record keeping of diets for animals; ensure proper cleanliness and maintenance of work area and food storage containers
• Oversee the implementation of the zoo-wide behavioral management program
• Oversee the implementation of approved research projects
• Lead and participate in regular meetings
• Lead conceptual and detailed efforts for all renovation and exhibit expansion plans
• Coordinate observations of animal behavior for signs of illness or injury; report any signs of illness or injury; assist veterinarians in minor operations or related activity as needed
• Respond to public inquiries in a courteous manner; provide information within the area of assignment; resolve complaints in an efficient and timely manner
• Serve as a spokesperson for the Zoo’s elephant programs as needed
• Ensure the health and welfare of animals within the Elephant Department; consult with veterinarians and nutritionists as needed
• Research and evaluate animals prior to acquisition; make recommendations for acquisition and disposition of animals
• Oversee and participate in the development and administration of the division's annual budget; participate in the forecast of funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials and supplies; monitor and approve expenditures; implement adjustments
• Serve as a liaison for the Elephant Department with other divisions, departments and outside agencies; negotiate and resolve sensitive and controversial issues
• Attend and participate in professional meetings; stay abreast of new trends and innovations in the field of elephant management
• Maintain a safe working environment for staff, train safety procedures and ensure the availability of all necessary supplies and inventories related to safety (equipment, etc.)
Supervisory Responsibilities:
• Ensure all elephant related equipment, hydraulic gates, restraint device and facilities are functioning and properly maintained
• Plan, direct, coordinate the work plan for staff; assign work activities, projects and programs; continuously review and evaluate methods and procedures
• Select, hire, train, motivate, and evaluate assigned elephant keeper personnel; keep abreast of innovation in elephant care and management; provide or coordinate employee training; work with subordinate employees to correct deficiencies and resolve problems
• Monitor work environment of staff; participate in the review, investigation, and implementation of discipline and termination procedures in conjunction with AP Administration and Human Resources
• Communicate information to staff as appropriate
• Supervise and participate in the construction and maintenance of facilities; coordinate with Engineering (maintenance and construction) department
• Provide responsible staff assistance to assigned Zoo collection management staff
• Demonstrate leadership of employees through ongoing training to include applicable laws, Zoo policies, business conduct and ethics, and the provision of quality services to guests and employees supporting the highest level of program integrity
Qualifications:
• Minimum of 5 years increasingly responsible experience in the care, training, handling, and breeding of elephants
• Supervisory experience within an elephant program required
• Valid driver license with acceptable motor vehicle record to maintain zoo standards of insurability
Must possess ability to:
• Oversee and participate in the management of a comprehensive elephant program utilizing both free and protected contact
• Supervise the husbandry methods including proper foot care, diets, enclosures, and transportation of elephants
• Oversee, direct, and coordinate the work and safety of subordinate employees