Job Description

Job Location: Birmingham Zoo - BIRMINGHAM, AL 35223
Position Type: Full TimeBirmingham Zoo Inc. (BZI) is a nonprofit, Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited Zoo and regional tourist attraction serving the greater Birmingham community and beyond. We advance wildlife conservation through responsible animal care, education, and local and global conservation efforts in support of our mission, Inspiring Passion to Conserve the Natural World.

POSITION SUMMARY
The Operations Manager is responsible for ensuring the Zoo is ready for daily operations to deliver a high-quality, consistent guest experience. This role oversees planning and management of operations including grounds and upkeep, rides and attractions, and janitorial services, and works closely with Events and cross-functional teams to support successful programs and guest satisfaction. The Manager of Operations contributes to operational planning, coordination, and implementation of practices that support efficiency, consistency, and safe operations across the Zoo.
All employees serve as ambassadors of the Zoo and are expected to act in a professional manner consistent with the Zoo’s mission and its core values of Passion, Excellence, Teamwork, Stewardship, and Inclusion. This expectation applies when interacting with the public or when reasonably perceived as representing the organization.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Leads and participates in daily operations as a working manager, including setting and modeling guest service standards and ensuring grounds, facilities, attractions, and cleanliness meet organizational expectations.
- Supervises and supports assigned staff, including hiring, coaching, performance management, and development, while fostering a respectful and collaborative team environment.
- Develops, implements, and monitors operational policies and procedures, and collaborates with leadership to address issues and support continuous improvement.
- Coordinates operational support for daily activities and events, including setup, breakdown, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to support successful guest and client experiences.
- Oversees operational systems and resources, including equipment, supplies, waste management, and facility needs, ensuring organization, availability, and efficient use.
- Supports safe operations by reinforcing established safety practices, maintaining required documentation (e.g., training and equipment records), and addressing concerns in collaboration with appropriate teams.
- Adheres to all organizational policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook and applicable departmental guidelines.
- This job description reflects the general nature of the work and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties. This position may be assigned additional duties reasonably related to the employee’s primary responsibilities and organizational needs, provided such duties are within the employee’s training, experience, and safety requirements and do not materially change the nature of the position.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
For purposes of this job description, “staff” may include employees, volunteers, interns, and other assigned personnel.
- Directly supervises assigned staff with responsibility for hiring, training, scheduling, performance management, and coaching.
- Provides ongoing guidance and support to ensure staff are meeting established operational, safety, and Zoo care standards.
- Maintains working knowledge of all functional areas and performs job duties alongside staff as needed to support operations.
- Will be included in the Manager on Duty (MOD) rotation.
SAFETY ANALYSIS
- This position involves exposure to hazards common to outdoor and operational Zoo environments, including weather conditions, equipment, and other environmental factors.
- Specific training and procedures will be provided to maintain safety of people as the highest priority, followed by the safety of the animal collection.
- Use and understanding of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required based on assigned tasks and work conditions.
- Demonstrates the ability to safely operate equipment, vehicles, tools, and attractions, including adherence to established procedures and obtaining training or certification as applicable.
- Demonstrates the ability to follow cleaning and sanitation safety practices, including protocols related to Bloodborne Pathogens, and to work safely in public-facing environments with awareness of guests.
- Employees are required to follow all Zoo safety policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook and Emergency Procedure Manual and to promptly report injuries, incidents, or safety concerns through established reporting channels.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described below are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position, with or without reasonable accommodation.
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, climb, and move for extended periods while supporting rides, attractions, and janitorial operations in indoor and outdoor environments.
- Ability to use hands, fingers, and tools or equipment required for assigned tasks, such as but not limited to cleaning, maintenance, ride operation support, and setup/breakdown activities.
- Ability to communicate effectively, including exchanging information with team members and guests in active, public-facing environments.
- Ability to routinely move, lift, or carry items up to 50 pounds or more, such as but not limited to cleaning equipment, supplies, and operational materials.
- Ability to work in varying environmental conditions, including exposure to weather, humidity, temperature changes, noise, water, and wet or uneven surfaces.

QualificationsQUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
Birmingham Zoo Inc. recognizes that skills and knowledge may be gained through a combination of education, paid employment, volunteer service, and other relevant experiences. Candidates who meet most of the qualifications for a position are encouraged to apply.
Education and Work Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent is required; additional college coursework is preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
- Several years of experience in operations, facilities, or a related field is required, including demonstrated experience supervising or leading staff; experience in a zoological institution, theme park, or similar environment is preferred.
Skills, Knowledge, and Desired Qualities
- Demonstrates the ability to plan, organize, and prioritize work in an efficient and cost-effective manner while supporting operational goals.
- Communicates clearly and respectfully, including the ability to present information and collaborate effectively across teams to meet deadlines.
- Demonstrates integrity, professionalism, and discretion in handling sensitive information and organizational matters.
- Applies critical thinking, organization, and time management skills, maintains proficiency with standard computer applications, and supports a mission-driven and team-oriented work environment.

Other Requirements
- Employees working in or around animal areas may be required to meet health and safety requirements based on job duties and risk exposure, in accordance with applicable law. These requirements may include TB testing, rabies vaccination or titer verification, and documentation of other vaccinations. In situations where required documentation is not provided or current, employees may be required to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including an N95 respirator or similar protection, as determined by workplace safety protocols.
- May be required to obtain and maintain First Aid/CPR certification or be willing to complete training and certification as a condition of the role.
- Will be required to operate Zoo-owned vehicles (including golf carts), powered equipment, and/or ride or attraction systems. In such cases, must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record in accordance with Zoo policy. A pre-employment Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) check will be conducted, and an annual MVR review is required.
- May be required to travel on occasion.
HOURS OF WORK
- Work schedules are based on operational needs and may include any combination of weekdays, weekends, evenings, holidays, and special events.
- Employees may be required to work during emergency situations or unusual operational circumstances.
ORGAZATIONAL COMMITMENT
Birmingham Zoo Inc. is committed to fostering a safe and welcoming workplace and encourages applicants with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. Birmingham Zoo Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
APPLICATION PROCESS
- Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
- Final candidates may be subject to background screening and drug testing, in accordance with applicable law.
This job description outlines the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position and does not constitute an employment contract. The Zoo reserves the right to modify duties, responsibilities, and requirements at any time based on operational needs.
Employment with Birmingham Zoo Inc. is at-will and may be terminated by either the employee or the organization at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law.