This is highly responsible professional managerial work in planning and directing the operation of the Metrozoo.

An employee in this class is responsible for supervising directly or through subordinate supervisors, the management, operation and maintenance of the Metrozoo. Responsibilities include coordination and supervision of all operational activities, including construction, administration, concessions, animal management, maintenance and security. Duties include making recommendations and decisions concerning animal management, budget appropriations, developing and implementing long-range planning, and monitoring revenues and expenditures to provide services at minimum cost. The incumbent exercises extensive independent judgment and professional managerial knowledge in directing all Metrozoo operations. Supervision is exercised over professional, administrative and specialized employees directly or through subordinate supervisors with responsibilities in the various phases of zoo activities. General supervision is received from the Deputy Department Director who holds the incumbent responsible for the professional management of all Metrozoo operations.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS

Provides direction and supervision through subordinate supervisors to professional and specialized employees engaged in providing an overall animal management program, veterinary services, security services, maintenance and landscape services, promotions and concessions.

Coordinates and supervises construction activities for animal displays, patron services and facilities; participates in the development of concepts and final design of facilities with construction staff; approves scheduling of construction with regard to animal welfare.

Participates in the conceptual development and makes final approval on marketing and promotional strategies related to the zoo.

Develops and establishes zoo service objectives; directs the planning, scheduling and coordination of projects; reviews progress of all projects through reports prepared by supervisors and conferences with subordinates; assists in the resolution of difficult and unusual problems.

Supervises the study and analysis of the conditions, public demands and trends affecting zoo activities; develops long-range planning to meet future needs in animal management, public facilities and programs.

Establishes and maintains cooperative planning and working relationships with various public and private organizations and volunteer groups; assists such groups in fund raising activities, educational programs and membership campaigns to benefit the zoo; coordinates programs using volunteers in zoo activities.

Prepares and supervises the preparation of budget estimates and justifications; controls and accounts for expenditure of operational funds; reviews and makes recommendations for revision of various fees and charges; oversees the operation of a variety of concessions leased to outside organizations.

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

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGES, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Extensive knowledge of the principles and practices of administration of a zoo.

Extensive knowledge of the goals and objectives of a major zoo operation.

Thorough knowledge of procedures and practices relating to an overall animal management program.

Considerable knowledge of the principles of public and business administration.

Considerable knowledge of applicable local, state and federal laws, rules and regulations pertaining to animal care operations.

Considerable knowledge of landscaping and maintenance requirements of a major zoo and it's facilities.

Considerable knowledge of budget preparation and monitoring procedures.

Considerable knowledge of supervisory principles and practices.

Considerable knowledge of public relations principles and techniques.

Ability to supervise, directly or through subordinate staff, the work of a large staff of professional, specialized and other employees in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale.

Ability to delegate authority to subordinates sufficient to perform assigned responsibilities.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates, officials of various public and private organizations, superiors and the public.

Ability to devise and present effective recommendations concerning the development of long-range planning for the provision of adequate services and facilities at the Metrozoo.

Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, verbally and in writing.

Ability to exercise judgment and discretion in interpreting and applying departmental policies, procedures and regulations.

REV 04/98