Entry level zoo Jobs in Tampa, FL

About Cosley :

Education and creating the 'first zoo experience' for kids are at the heart of Cosley Zoo’s mission. We believe that early, positive interactions with wildlife can ignite a lifelong passion for conservation. Our engaging educational programs and interactive exhibits are designed to captivate young minds, making learning fun and fostering a deep appreciation for nature.

The Cosley Zoo team embodies and nurtures a culture of collaboration and caring that shines through to new team members and even to guests on a casual visit to the zoo. Cosley Zoo is located in a community that is dedicated to being part of its growth and engagement.

What we are looking for :

Looking for a motivated and dynamic Director for the Cosley Zoo who will be instrumental in guiding the zoo forward as we celebrate its milestone 50th anniversary year.

We are searching for the next Director to take the helm at Cosley Zoo. Together, we will create connections that inspire and foster care for the natural world, making a difference for our community and future generations.

In this leadership role, your vision and passion can shape a world where everyone has a meaningful connection to animals and nature. We are seeking a passionate Director who will engage the community, our supporters, and our team as we build on successes to date and continue on our transformative journey.

If you are ready to make a profound impact and lead a dedicated team committed to wildlife conservation and community engagement, we encourage you to apply. Together, we can create a bright future for Cosley Zoo and the world we share.

Summary of Role :

The Zoo Director is the driving force behind the vision, strategy, and overall leadership of the zoo, ensuring it operates at its highest potential. This role requires a leader with a passion for animal care, conservation, and education, combined with strong business acumen and experience relevant to working with multiple stakeholders to navigate the challenges of a small park district zoo. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of resource management, revenue generation, staff development, and building philanthropic and partnership relationships. They will embody our commitment to animal wellbeing, guest experience innovation, and community engagement, steering the zoo towards a sustainable and impactful future.

Specific Responsibilities :

Strategic Vision and Leadership :

Champion and lead a strategic vision for the zoo that aligns with the latest AZA thought-leadership, focusing on innovative guest education and experiences, and strengthening our commitment to animal wellbeing and conservation.

Serve as a visionary leader, fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, collaboration, and passion for the zoo’s mission.

Develop and implement short- and long-range plans toward attaining Park District, zoo-wide and Cosley Foundation goals and objectives in alignment with the Strategic Plan for Cosley Zoo.

Attract new visitors and keep current visitors to Cosley Zoo coming back through high-quality and consistent guest services, new and fresh experiences, and creative initiatives that peak community interest.

Proactively communicate and involve the Wheaton Park District, the Cosley Foundation Board, employees and volunteers, partners, donors, and the community as a whole to foster pride in, and support for, Cosley Zoo.

Resource Management :

Oversee effective and efficient staffing allocations and budget management, ensuring resources are optimally utilized for maximum impact.

Prepare and provide input on annual zoo budget, foundation budget, goals, and objectives in a timely manner.

Exhibit entrepreneurial leadership to identify and pursue new revenue-generating opportunities that align with our mission and enhance the zoo’s financial sustainability.

Ensure zoo operations and capital projects position the zoo to maintain AZA accreditation and be in alignment with all current city / county ordinances, Department of Agriculture, Fish and Wildlife Service, IL Department of Natural Resources, and other state and local regulations.

Maintain a facility plan to manage repair and replacement needs and positions the zoo for greater mission impact.

Staff Development and Mentoring :

Cultivate a supportive and empowering environment for staff, encouraging professional growth, skill development, and a deepened commitment to our mission.

Lead by example, demonstrating integrity, resilience, a commitment to continuous learning and improvement, and the dedication and flexibility to invest the time and effort necessary to drive the zoo’s success.

Discover new opportunities to enrich the current staff while expanding the knowledge base for future endeavors.

Philanthropic Development and Relationship Building :

Collaborate with the Foundation Board and staff to build and develop philanthropic relationships, increasing contributed revenue for operations, new business strategies, and capital projects.

Act as the primary spokesperson for the zoo, engaging with the community, donors, and media to elevate the zoo’s profile and support.

Stakeholder Engagement :

Engage and leverage relationships with key stakeholders, including Park District Leadership, the Foundation Board, community leaders, and government officials, to further the mission and advancement of the zoo.

Facilitate partnerships and collaborations that enhance the zoo’s impact and community value.

Experience & Skill Requirements :

7+ years of progressive leadership experience in a zoo, aquarium, or related field.

AZA-accreditation experience.

Demonstrated success in nonprofit and financial management, strategic planning, and fundraising.

Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills, with the ability to inspire and engage a diverse team and community.

A passion for wildlife conservation, education, and community engagement.

Experience & Skill Preferred :

Creation / implementation of education initiatives in a zoo, aquarium or related field.

Handling of budgets.

Educational Requirements :

Bachelor’s degree in Zoology, Environmental Science, Business Administration, or related field; Master’s degree preferred.

Computer Program / Resource Requirements :

Microsoft Suite

Physical / Driving Requirements :

Must have valid driver’s license and insurance coverage.

Must be able to lift up-to 25lbs.

Travel Requirements :

Some travel required (donor meetings, conferences, field experiences, etc.)

Language Requirements :

English (Fluent) - Spoken and Written

Why Join Us :

Joining Cosley Zoo offers a unique opportunity to lead a beloved institution into its next chapter of growth and impact. You will be at the forefront of advancing conservation, educating the public, leading innovative animal wellbeing, and enhancing guest experiences, all while leading a passionate team dedicated to making a difference. We offer a competitive compensation package, including benefits and opportunities for professional development.

Experience Required

Experience & Skill Requirements : 7+ years of progressive leadership experience in a zoo, aquarium, or related field. AZA-accreditation experience. Demonstrated success in nonprofit and financial management, strategic planning, and fundraising. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills, with the ability to inspire and engage a diverse team and community. A passion for wildlife conservation, education, and community engagement. Experience & Skill Preferred : Creation / implementation of education initiatives in a zoo, aquarium or related field. Handling of budgets.

Further Comments

Disclaimer : Cosley Zoo is employment-at-will. This means the employee or employer may terminate the relationship at any time without reason or cause. Cosley Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer and therefore does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, marital status, physical or mental handicap, military service, or unfavorable military discharge.

Salary

110K-$133K