VP of Zoological Operations
At SeaWorld, we’re passionate about caring for animals. In fact, we’ve already rescued over 40,000 animals (and counting!). And we can save you from being stuck in just another job. Join us and help bring joy, excitement, and lasting memories to people from around the world. We’re seeking enthusiastic, dedicated, and hard-working individuals to become our Ambassadors. Join us and play an important part on our incredible team!
The Vice President oversees all zoological programs at SeaWorld Orlando. This position is responsible for all aspects of zoological management and advancement including, but not limited to; animal welfare, collection planning, supervision of the animal management, animal health, education, water quality/life support, and animal rescue teams, collection planning, regulatory compliance, permitting, exhibit quality, animal training and enrichment, species conservation, outstanding guest experience, and zoo revenue programs. The VP is responsible for meeting and exceeding United States Department of Agriculture Animal Welfare Act standards and Association of Zoos and Aquarium, Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks & Aquariums accreditation, and American Humane certification standards. This position is expected to propose and implement professional best practices in animal management. The VP is expected to take an active role in staff safety and staff professional development. This position works actively and collaboratively with all departments and facilities. The position reports directly to the Park President and indirectly to the Chief Zoological Officer.
What you get to do:
As the Vice President of Zoological Operations, you will handle the overall planning, direction and operations of our zoological facilities. We’re seeking a visionary leader with a dedication to the education, conservation, and entertainment aspects of our zoo. You will:
- Ensure the proper care and exhibiting of all animals
- Create and maintain Zoological procedures following SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment standards
- Ensure all Ambassadors are well trained for assigned areas
- Plan and practice for emergency operations
- Serve as an incident leader during emergency operations
- Plan and oversee facility design, construction, maintenance and improvement
- Create positive visitor experiences and educational programs
- Manage an exceptional team focused on education, animal care, and animal rescue/rehabilitation
- Manage, develop, mentor and inspire team members
- Develop annual operating and capital equipment budgets
- Work Collaboratory with the other park VP to drive park initiatives
- Assist the Park President with other duties as assigned
What it takes to succeed:
- Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, zoo or animal management, business, public administration or a related field, veterinary medical degree also acceptable
- Eight or more years of progressively responsible zoological operations experience
- Four or more years of proven management experience
- Experience required in an AZA-Accredited Zoo
- Exceptional communication skills
- The ability to make public presentations
- Ability to plan and oversee capital and operational budgets
- Experience building and maintaining strong relationships with federal, state and local agencies, business and civic groups and the general public
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
What else is important:
- Able to lift, push, pull and/or carry up to 50 lbs.
- Position engages in extensive walking and standing throughout entire work shift and climb/ascend heights, if needed
- You will perform the following physical activities: kneeling, squatting, bend floor-to waist/waist-to-overhead, reach overhead, simple grasp and fine hand manipulation tasks (use of tools/keyboard/writing)
- Able to work indoors and outdoors, in varying weather, to include extreme heat
- Position may be exposed to fumes, dust, odors and cold/heat temperature extremes
- Will perform cleaning duties; including use of cleaning chemicals
- Will work flexible schedules/hours based on business needs, to include opening, mid-, and closing shifts; nights, weekends, and holidays
- Flexible in work locations as placement will depend on business needs and career development opportunities
Join the team!
If you’re looking for the opportunity to make the most of your abilities in a one-of-a-kind setting with an entertainment industry leader, we’re looking for you!
The perks of the position:
- Paid Time Off
- Complimentary Park Tickets and Passes
- Park Discounts on Food and Merchandise
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- 401K Retirement plan
- Voluntary Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Disability Benefits
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Dependent and Health Care Flexible Spending Accounts
- Employee Assistance Program
- Legal Assistance Plan
EEO Employer:
SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, PREGNANCY, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR COVERED VETERAN STATUS.