Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens (JZG) is seeking a visionary Director of Animal Health to lead our veterinary team, drive excellence in animal care, and contribute to strategic growth. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of animal health at JZG, playing a pivotal role in our conservation and rehabilitation efforts, including our state-of-the-art Critical Manatee Center, which will house up to 18 animals.

JZG is a world-class, award-winning institution accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. With a budget of $31 million and more than 850,000 visitors annually, JZG has inspired curiosity about Earth’s creatures and ecosystems for over 100 years. Home to over 1500 + rare and exotic animals and 1,000 plant species, it is as much a botanical garden as it is a haven for wildlife. 

One of the first institutions in the nation with a dedicated Animal Well-being team, JZG ensures animals thrive through holistic care. Our Manatee Critical Care Center is one of seven facilities in Florida authorized to rescue and rehabilitate manatees. Following a major expansion, the center will soon house up to 18 injured manatees, positioning the program as one of the largest in the state. 

Are you:

• A proven leader in veterinary medicine with strong clinical expertise, dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of animal care and welfare across a diverse collection?
• A collaborative partner, skilled at bringing together animal health, animal care, life support, and conservation efforts to achieve shared goals?
• An effective communicator, able to engage with stakeholders at all levels while fostering an inclusive and cohesive workplace culture?
• A strategic thinker, with the ability to translate the zoo’s mission into actionable plans that elevate animal care, conservation, and guest experiences
• Committed to continuous learning, always staying ahead of industry standards while empowering your team to grow and develop?
• A mentor at heart, passionate about nurturing the next generation of veterinary professionals and building a culture of learning and excellence?

You’ll need:

• Ability to consistently remain on your feet for prolonged periods of time.
• Manual dexterity for standing, reaching, flexibility, and body movement for bending, crouching, walking, kneeling, stoop, bend, lift, kneel, crawl, climb, jump, dig and prolonged standing/sitting.
• Grasp, turn, and manipulate objects of varying size and weight, requiring fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
• Ability to operate motorized cart, trucks, hand and/or power tools. 
• Ability to work outdoors and indoors under all environmental conditions and temperatures.
• Ability to transport and move items occasionally up to 50 pounds without difficulty for short distance.
• Auditory ability for verbal communication/conversation/responses via telephone, telephone systems, two-way radio, and face-to-face interactions.
• Visual and auditory acuity appropriate for safety and discern differences in document

• Weather Exposure: Exposure to various weather conditions, including extreme heat, sunlight, cold, rain, and wind.
• Pathogens: possible exposure to animal or human bloodborne pathogens.
• Infectious Diseases: Risk of exposure to zoonotic diseases.
• Hazards: Potential for injuries from wildlife, equipment, chemicals, and heights.
• On-Call Responsibilities: Will be required to be on call for emergencies.
• Disaster support: Must be available to fulfill disaster-response duties and responsibilities as required.

• Must maintain a valid driver’s license and clear driving record.
• May require local or international travel for short time frames.