This is advanced administrative and supervisory work in the direction of an overall animal management program for the Metropolitan Zoo.

An employee in this class is responsible for the planning, development, coordination and supervision of all animal related programs. Emphasis of the work is on the management of a total care and maintenance program for the entire animal collection. Supervision is exercised over administrative and specialized employees through subordinate supervisors by assignment of responsibilities and review of results for attainment of desired objectives. General direction is received from an administrative superior who evaluates work for achievement of administrative and professional objectives through personal conferences and review of reports.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS

Develops and directs the implementation of a variety of programs designed for the animal collection, such as animal management, propagation and conservation projects; reviews the progress of all projects and provides technical assistance; analyzes reports for attainment of objectives.

Directs professional and specialized subordinates in the research and development of specific animal diets and health programs.

Directs the development and implementation of formal standards and procedures for animal health care and maintenance of recordkeeping procedures for animal inventory, ISIS and other records.

Supervises and coordinates breeding loan and commercial transactions concerning animals, such as purchases, sales, trades and exchanges, with subordinate supervisors; monitors the upkeep of required permits, registrations and agreements.

Prepares, provides narrative information and assists in finalizing division budget documents relating to the animal collection.

Provides assistance to and coordinates involvement with other departments and outside agencies in animal related matters, such as educational and public relations programs.

Makes recommendations and decisions regarding hiring, discipline and promotion of subordinates; authorizes leave and overtime; reviews employee performance reports prepared by subordinates and rates employee performance.

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGES, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Thorough knowledge of the custodial care, general habits, biological requirements and reproduction of a variety of animals.

Thorough knowledge of procedures and practices relating to animal management, propagation and conservation.

Thorough knowledge of research procedures for the development of programs for the care and breeding of the animal collection.

Thorough knowledge of applicable county, state and Federal laws, rules and regulations pertaining to animal care operations.

Considerable knowledge of budget preparation procedures.

Considerable knowledge of supervisory principles and practices.

Ability to initiate, develop and maintain a comprehensive animal management program for a variety of animals.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, supervisors, departmental officials, officials of other agencies and the general public.

Ability to express ideas and information clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing.

Ability to plan, assign, coordinate and supervise others in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale.

NEW 10-80