Supervisor, Wildlife Care

**Branch: Wildlife Care**

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, and conservation science to fight extinction. Your Toronto Zoo makes animal well-being a priority in all operations and shows respect for all wildlife.

**Basic Function** The Supervisor, Wildlife Care, is responsible for the care and wellbeing of animals and the overall upkeep of exhibits and containments. The position oversees the daily care of all wildlife and ensures all animal welfare regulations and needs are being met. The role liaises with all other departments for matters that could influence various aspects of animal health, welfare and husbandry under human care along with the guest experience and visitor-facing programming. This position will assist and provide support in implementing the Strategic Plan.

**Responsibilities**:

- Inspects exhibits, containments, and Keeper work areas to ensure proper standards are maintained.
- Liaises with Wildlife Health, Nutrition, Lead Keepers and other staff on matters pertaining to animal health and welfare.
- Ensures compliance with policies, procedures, and instructions.
- Reports on safety hazards and recommends appropriate action.
- Monitors and ensures good public image of zoogeographic area of responsibility. This includes confirming the physical integrity of the area, performing animal health initiatives and ensuring follow-up on work orders for maintenance, horticulture and graphics as required.
- Conduct audits of emergency equipment including animal down equipment, C02 canisters and bear spray canisters.
- Represents wildlife care in planning and participation in animal escape drills.
- Prepares daily briefing for animal care staff.
- Oversees accurate taxonomical records and ensures they are maintained; makes recommendations to curatorial staff regarding breeding, acquisition and disposition of Zoo animals.
- Facilitates tours, outreach activities and media events in area.
- Initiates and carries out projects of interest in collaboration with other Wildlife Care staff.
- Develops area budget in consultation with the Wildlife Care Manager; conducts product research for latest information and initiates purchases as required.
- Facilitates and co-ordinates approved public relations and marketing needs on issues pertaining to the Branch.
- Participates in the project planning process and ensures staff involvement in review of plans and exhibit design.
- Provides overnight coverage for the animal collection on a rotating on-call basis.

**Qualifications**:

- Must have 3-5 years progressive related experience, including 1 year demonstrated experience providing leadership.
- Experience in a unionized environment is preferred.
- Must have experience in teaching staff to be effective trainers.
- Must be capable of producing comprehensive, accurate reports of a complex nature.
- Must possess an extensive knowledge of animal husbandry procedures.
- Must be able to demonstrate excellent animal training skills, using Operant Conditioning, with a variety of species.
- Must demonstrate a thorough knowledge of the principles of a behavioural husbandry program and proven capability of structuring one within a zoological institution.
- Must demonstrate an understanding of AZA requirements for Managing Enrichment & Training programs within an accredited institution.
- Must have a demonstrated ability to lead and supervise.
- Must be knowledgeable in the use of computerized programs and systems, including Microsoft Office 365.
- Well-developed interpersonal skills, along with strong communications skills.
- Must have a working knowledge of the Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act and WHMIS legislation.
- Must be able to work weekends, shifts and holidays.
- Must be able to deal with staff and public in a courteous and efficient manner.
- Must have basic knowledge of budget preparation and administration.
- Capable of meeting the physical demands of the position.
- The 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. _
- Personal information gathered as a result of this posting is collected under the authority of the City of Toronto Act and By-law No. 5-1998 and will be used to determine eligibility for this job posting. Questions about this collection of personal information should be directed to: Ms. S. Findlay-Thompson, Manager, Human Resources (416) 392-5925. _

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**Job Type**: Permanent

Work Location: In person