Director of Mammals
Collaborate with a passionate Zoo Crew in San Antonio
Choosing where to grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it’s equally important you know that the place you choose to work at will support and guide you. With a diversity of passionate people, San Antonio Zoo is a place where you can collaborate with others securing a future for wildlife.
The Impact You’ll Make in this Role
The Director of Mammals provides strategic and operational leadership for the Mammal Department at San Antonio Zoo, ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare, husbandry, and behavioral management. This position plays a critical role in advancing the zoo’s mission by leading a team of dedicated professionals who provide world-class care for a diverse mammal collection while supporting conservation, research, and guest engagement efforts.
As a Director of Mammals, you will have the opportunity to tap into your curiosity and collaborate with some of the most innovative and diverse people in San Antonio. Here, you will make an impact by:
- Provide leadership and oversight for all mammal areas and species under the department’s care, ensuring excellence in animal husbandry, health, nutrition, enrichment, and welfare.
- Lead, mentor, and develop the Mammal Care leadership team, including managers and animal care specialists, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning.
- Oversee daily operations of mammal facilities, ensuring compliance with USDA, AZA, OSHA, and other applicable regulatory and accreditation standards.
- Collaborate closely with the veterinary, nutrition, and behavioral husbandry teams to ensure a holistic approach to animal care and wellness.
- Work with the Vice President of Animal Care, Animal Wellbeing and Animal Health leadership teams to develop, implement, and evaluate species management programs, including breeding recommendations, introductions, and population planning.
- Serve as the primary liaison between the Mammal Department and other zoo departments (education, guest experience, facilities, marketing, and conservation) to ensure seamless collaboration and communication.
- Develop and manage the department’s budget, including staffing, equipment, and capital needs.
- Participate in and contribute to AZA Species Survival Plans (SSPs), Taxon Advisory Groups (TAGs), and other professional collaborations supporting animal welfare and conservation.
- Support and assist in exhibit design, renovation, and long-term facility planning in coordination with animal care, maintenance, and construction teams.
- Promote team engagement and professional development by establishing clear expectations, measurable goals, and opportunities for growth and recognition.
- Partner with the education and marketing teams to communicate conservation messaging and animal stories that connect guests to the zoo’s mission.
- Participate in strategic planning, organizational initiatives, and emergency response operations as a key member of the Animal Care and Wellbeing leadership team.
- Consistently exhibit an attitude of service and professionalism, modeling the zoo’s core values and mission-driven culture.
- Be fully committed to the mission of San Antonio Zoo — to create awareness that inspires action to care for the wild world we steward and the animals we protect.
Your Skills and Expertise
To set you up for success in this role from day one, the San Antonio Zoo recommends the following skills/qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Zoology, Biology, Animal Science, or a related field required; advanced degree preferred.
- Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in animal care and management within an AZA-accredited zoological institution, including at least 3 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
- Proven knowledge of animal husbandry practices, exhibit management, operant conditioning, and enrichment programs for a wide range of mammalian taxa.
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to motivate, coach, and develop a diverse team.
- Demonstrated ability to make sound decisions in dynamic, fast-paced environments.
- Experience managing departmental budgets and long-term planning initiatives.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively represent the zoo in professional associations and public settings.
- Working knowledge of AZA accreditation standards, USDA/APHIS regulations, and industry best practices.
- Proficiency in recordkeeping systems such as ZIMS preferred.
- Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and perform physically demanding tasks when needed.
- Must be available to work weekends, holidays, evenings, and special events as required.
- Must be 18 years of age or older with a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record.
- Successful candidates must complete a pre-employment background check, drug screen, and National Sex Offender Registry check.
The San Antonio Zoo is an equal opportunity employer. San Antonio Zoo will not discriminate against any applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.
