Shape the vision. Lead the mission. Elevate the Zoo. The Honolulu Zoo is hiring a Director of Zoo to plans, organizes, and directs the administration and operations of the Honolulu Zoo, including budgeting, coordinating, and administering programs and activities required to carry out the mission and objectives of the Zoo. What You Will Do. Executive Leadership & Strategic Direction: Sets the vision and long-range strategy for the Zoo, ensuring all programs, operations, and policies align with modern zoological standards and organizational priorities. Operational Oversight & Organizational Performance: Directs all Zoo operations, establishes performance expectations, and drives accountability, efficiency, and continuous improvement across divisions. Financial & Capital Management: Oversees budgeting, financial planning, and capital improvement initiatives to sustain operations, modernize facilities, and support long-term growth. Workforce Leadership & Organizational Development: Leads, develops, and holds management staff accountable; oversees staffing, labor relations, and organizational structure to ensure a high-performing workforce. Revenue Growth, Partnerships & Community Engagement: Drives revenue-generating strategies, partnerships, and public engagement efforts to expand attendance, funding, and community support. Animal Programs, Conservation & Compliance (AZA Standards): Provides executive oversight of animal care, conservation, and education programs, ensuring compliance with accreditation standards and regulatory requirements. Performing other duties and responsibilities of the position. The Honolulu Zoo is hiring an Assistant Zoo Director to assists in planning, organizing, and directing the administration and operations of the Honolulu Zoo, including budgeting, coordinating, and administering programs and activities required to carry out the mission and objectives of the Zoo. What You Will Do. Operational Leadership & Execution: Oversees day-to-day Zoo operations and ensures effective implementation of policies, programs, and initiatives; resolves operational issues and ensures continuity of services across divisions. Organizational Performance & Accountability: Monitors performance metrics, supports division managers, and drives efficiency, accountability, and continuous improvement across Zoo functions. Financial & Administrative Support: Assists in budget development, financial monitoring, and resource allocation; oversees administrative functions including personnel, contracts, and internal processes. Workforce Leadership & Staff Development: Supervises and supports management staff; assists with staffing, labor relations, and organizational development to maintain a productive and engaged workforce. Programs, Animal Care & Compliance Support: Supports oversight of animal care, conservation, and education programs, ensuring alignment with professional standards such as those of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and applicable regulations. Revenue, Partnerships & Community Engagement: Assists in implementing strategies to increase attendance, revenue, and community engagement; supports partnerships, events, and public outreach efforts. Performing other duties and responsibilities of the position. Special Work Requirements May be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays. On a voluntary basis, serves as a member for the Zoo Dangerous Animal Response Team. If the situation dictates, may need to use firearms during animal escape emergencies. Qualification to possess, carry, and/or have access to firearms and ammunition will be in accordance with applicable state and federal laws. - - - Assistant Zoo Director (EM-07): $10,289 - $13,749.67 per month, salary rate commensurate with applicable experience, pending approval - - - - - - Zoo Director (EM-08): $10,802 - $15,535 per month, salary rate commensurate with applicable experience, pending approval - - - Enjoy excellent employment benefits including generous time off (up to 21 vacation days, 21 sick leave days, and holidays), comprehensive health coverage, retirement plan, career development, and much more! View details about all our available benefits by clicking on the “Benefits” tab at the top of this posting or visiting Apply today and take the first step toward a lasting career! Additional Job Information Some notifications will be sent via e-mail. You are responsible for monitoring instructions and correspondence from this office by checking your email account in a timely manner. To ensure proper delivery, please make sure you: - use a valid e-mail account; - verify your e-mail address is entered correctly on your Government. Jobs account; - are subscribed to e-mail notices; - check your spam folders; and - add infoneogov@honolulu.gov and info@governmentjobs.com to your contact list. Notifications may also be sent via text message if opted into the service. Data and text messaging fees apply. Minimum Qualification Requirements At time of application, you must be a citizen, national, or permanent resident alien of the United States or a non-citizen eligible under federal law for unrestricted employment. EDUCATION REQUIREMENT:Equivalent to graduation from an accredited four year college or university with a bachelor’s degree in zoology, business, public administration or a related field. Substitution: Work experience may be substituted for a bachelor's degree on a year-for-year basis. Such experience must have provided the knowledge, skills, and analytical ability normally gained from attainment of a bachelor's degree. Education Verification: Education information must be listed clearly on your application. If available, please attach a legible electronic copy of your diploma, official transcripts, and/or applicable foreign credential evaluation to your application. As part of the hiring process, you may be asked to furnish documentation to verify your education to move forward for further consideration. EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT:Director of Zoo: Five years of professional experience in the care and exhibition of a wide variety of zoo animals, three of which shall have been in an administrative capacity at a zoological institution of comparable size and scope. Assistant Zoo Director: Five years of professional experience in the care and exhibition of a wide variety of zoo animals, two of which shall have been in an administrative capacity at a zoological institution of comparable size and scope. Quality of Experience: Having the required number of years of experience will not in itself be accepted as qualifying for the position. Candidates' overall experience must have been of such scope and responsibility as to conclusively demonstrate the ability to perform the duties of the position. Such experience must have demonstrated the following:Knowledge of zoo operations, including animal care, habitat requirements, exhibition standards, and public safety;The ability to support implementation of programs in alignment with accreditation and regulatory requirements (e.g., Association of Zoos and Aquariums standards);The ability to assist in planning, coordinating, and improving daily operations across multiple functional areas;Experience supervising staff, supporting workforce development, and maintaining effective working relationships;The ability to assist with budgeting, administrative processes, and governmental procedures;Experience supporting public engagement, education programs, and partnerships with community and external agencies;The ability to analyze operational needs, prepare reports, and communicate effectively with leadership, stakeholders, and the public. LICENSE REQUIREMENT: Possession of a valid Hawaii State driver's license (Type 3).