JOB POSTINGS

Our growing network is always looking for passionate people who want to make a difference. This jobs list is constantly changing and growing, so be sure to check in periodically to see if there’s a job for you.

Director of Facilities & Operations

Working under the direction of the Zoo Director, this position manages and oversees general operations for the Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden departments as designated.  Position is responsible for the oversight of the Facilities, Horticulture, Guest Services Departments and Construction Projects assigned.

DUTIES:

  • Aids the Zoo Director in formulating and administering organization policies in day to day operations.
  • Participates in formulation, administration and development of long-range goals and objectives.
  • Directs and coordinates activities of departments for which responsibility is delegated to further attainment of goals and objectives.
  • Oversees the Safety and Security functions of the zoo. Including the MPZ&BG safety committee and after-hours security contractor.
  • Reviews analyses of activities, costs, operations and forecast data to determine departmental progress toward stated goals and objectives.
  • Confers with the Zoo Director and other administrative personnel to review achievements and discuss required changes in goals and objectives resulting from current status and conditions.
  • Acts as liaison between the Zoo Director and all departments for which responsibility is designated.  Communicates departmental needs to Zoo Director in a timely manner.
  • Maintains effective and appropriate relationships with Board members, ad-hoc committees, volunteer groups, management, staff, general public and vendors.
  • Directs, motivates, trains and evaluates the performance of direct report senior level managers in an effort to obtain the goals and objectives of the organization.
  • Collects and interprets financial, economic and statistical data for budget preparation and purposes.
  • Manages capital projects and new exhibit construction including project budgets and timelines.
  • May perform the duties of Zoo Director during absence or when directed to do so for an interim period of time.
  • Participates in activities as directed and in relation to Evansville Zoological Society Board needs and other events that dictates such level of involvement.
  • Participates at the zoo advisory and parks board meetings.
  • Participates in city council meetings as required.
  • Represents the organization at various community and business functions and act as a “Zoo Ambassador”.
  • Collaborates with all government agencies as required.
  • Performs fundraising duties as required.
  • Maintains confidentiality and professionalism standards at all times.
  • Performs other related duties as required.

JOB REQUIREMENTS: 

  • 5+ years of experience managing facilities and operations of an organization.
  • Working knowledge of HVAC systems, Plumbing and filtration, Electrical and mechanical and project management.
  • Good communication skills and ability to interact with the public and media as required.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to use good judgment and tact.
  • Excellent organizational skills (oral and written) and the ability to excel at details, multi-tasking and working under pressure.
  • Driver’s license and ability to operate Zoo vehicles
  • Weekend and after-hours work.
  • With a 24/7 operation this position must be reachable after business hours.
  • Must have some experience and be skilled in the use of software programs such as MS Word, Outlook , PowerPoint, , Building management systems, security camera systems.
  • Zoo IT liaison for City of Evansville IT needs and familiar with basic network and infrastructure.
  • Maintain a positive professional demeanor and attitude.

RESPONSIBILITY:

The Director of Facilities and Operations is responsible for all facets of the operations, facilities, and guest services personnel at the zoo.  Must have knowledge of and maintain compliance with City, State, Federal, and International regulations.  Responsible for all reporting departments to follow zoo policies and procedures, and maintain current AZA accreditation standards. Must maintain a positive working environment and good working relations with employees, visitors and governing authorities. The Director of Facilities and Operations of the zoo is responsible that all zoo facilities and equipment are properly maintained.

PERSONAL WORK RELATIONSHIOPS

  • Regularly works with the public and other Zoo employees.
  • Frequent contact with colleagues from other zoos and a wide variety of governmental agencies.
  • Occasionally deals with complainants from outside the Zoo.
  • Reports to the Zoo Director. Manages zoo administrative and operations personnel: full-time, seasonal, and volunteers.
  • This position also communicates to partners of the cultural, tourism, not for profit corporations, and educational entities within the tri-state area.

PHYSICAL EFFORT AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work environment is both outside and indoors on the zoo grounds.  Some out of town and overnight travel is required to meet the overall needs of the zoo.