Wildlife Training Supervisor - San Diego Zoo Safari Park

$71,200 - $78,760/Yr

Aza - Escondido, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Escondido, CA

Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations

About the position

The Wildlife Training Supervisor is responsible for the daily supervision of the safe care and handling of an assigned animal collection. This position reports to a Wildlife Care Manager or Wildlife Training Manager.

Responsibilities

• Effectively leads assigned team by providing the support and guidance that enables each team member to be empowered and successful.
• Leads, manages, develops and evaluates the performance of the animal care behavior staff as assigned and resolves conflicts in a timely and appropriate manner.
• Coordinates animal and staff participation in special events.
• Participates in developing proposals for operant conditioning opportunities.
• Participates in preparing a variety of reports and documentation.
• Represents the leadership and the animal care divisions in partnership with operations.
• Ensures the wildlife welfare standards are upheld and improved upon where necessary according to the organizations Wildlife Welfare Policy.

Requirements

• 1+ years' experience supervising an animal behavior department and personnel in an AZA accredited zoo or equivalent facility required
• Training and caring for a large variety of exotic animals, developing and presenting animal shows or programs for managed staff
• Bachelor's degree in zoology, animal science, or a related field

Nice-to-haves

• Understanding and application of behavior modification using positive reinforcement and use of operant conditioning
• Experience building animal programs and teams
• Progressive mindset and ability to lead a team through change
• Animal Ambassador experience with variety of species including carnivores
• Free contact with carnivores preferred

Benefits

• Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Family Passes
• Complimentary Tickets
• Local and In-House Discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness Program