Area Manager of Oceans

The Indianapolis Zoo is a national leader of animal conservation, and one of the top tourist destinations in Indiana. We’re located on a 64 acre campus in the heart of vibrant downtown Indianapolis. In addition to our animal exhibits, gardens, and aquarium, we support local and international animal conservation efforts. The Zoo is a private, 501(c)(3) operation.

We have an opportunity for an Area Manager of Oceans, a position that demands strong management and supervisory skills, and extensive aquatic work experience and knowledge. Expertise with various fish, invertebrates and penguin species is required. Some mammal experience is also preferred. This position supervises staff, adult volunteers, and interns. Under the direction of the Curator, the area manager is responsible for carrying out decisions related to the selection, acquisition and de-acquisition of specimens; the Health and Welfare of the Collection; Records Management; Permits and Licenses; Safety and Security of the area; and Staffing.

The Area Manager of Oceans is also responsible for assisting with existing exhibit modifications; submitting quarantine arrival forms and, if needed, organizing and implementing quarantine procedures for animals quarantined in the area; oversees and directs animal introductions; and must be able to use behavioral enrichment techniques to modify/enrich animals within the biome.

Requirements of the position include:

  • A minimum four (4) years of professional work experience working in a Zoo or similar organization, and at least two (2) years of practical Zoo experience.
  • A minimum of three (3) years of supervisory/management experience.
  • Bachelor’s degree in zoology, biology, or a related field is required.
  • Outstanding communication skills.
  • Demonstrated strong interpersonal and organizational skills.
  • A completed on-line application, including an attached cover letter and resume.
  • The names and contact information of three (3) professional references. Preferably references are current or former supervisors, or someone who can speak knowledgeably about your work, abilities, and skills. Please do not list relatives and friends.

Technical Proficiency: Must be an intermediate user of Outlook, Excel, Word and Computer databases.

Working Conditions: Must be able to work outdoors and indoors under all environmental conditions. Must be able to perform very heavy work exerting at least 100 pounds of force occasionally, and or up to 50 pounds of force frequently. Must be able to climb and maintain body equilibrium while performing various jobs. Heavy visual acuity required and good hearing. Must follow Universal Protection Precautions and Bloodborne Pathogens Guidelines. Possible occupational exposure (Category B employee) to human bloodborne pathogens. Job requires working with harsh or hazardous chemicals (e.g., chlorine sanitizers or cleaning compounds). Exact chemicals and training will be explained by the area curator.

The Zoo offers a competitive benefit package (medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, 403b) after 90 days of employment. Compensation is commensurate with experience.

Please include compensation requirement in your attached cover letter, or enter it on the online application.

Successfully passing pre-employment testing, including a drug test, a driving record check, and criminal history check is a condition of employment.

Application deadline is October 25, 2013.

Mailed, faxed, or delivered applications are not accepted. Only online applications are considered. Interested candidates may apply online for this position at: