Wildlife Conservation Society · 1 month ago
Assistant Director of Operations
Wildlife Conservation Society operates the Bronx Zoo and is seeking an Assistant Director of Operations to lead facilities and trade shop operations. The role oversees maintenance, repairs, preventive maintenance, safety, compliance, staffing, budgeting, and coordination across zoo departments and external partners.
Non ProfitPetWildlife Conservation
Responsibilities
Provide leadership in directing the Operations Department’s functions throughout the Bronx Zoo in performing routine maintenance and repairs. These activities include general construction, capital upgrades, demolition, alteration, repair, modification and maintenance of the facilities and grounds, including roads, paths, fences, buildings, exhibits, equipment, pools, streams, dams, etc. and be able to prioritize all activities
Provide leadership in managing staff in the Operations Department. Ensure that trade shops in the Operations Department operate at a consistent, efficient and effective level, and in compliance with WCS policies and procedures. Provide direction and training when necessary
Oversee the preventive maintenance program for HVAC, life support systems, electrical and plumbing related equipment. Work with staff to troubleshoot and conduct repairs to all associated equipment
Maintain established standards of safety for the Operations staff outside contractors, vendors, zoo guests, and all WCS staff members working at the Bronx Zoo
Ensure building systems are in compliance with DOB & FDNY rules and regulations
Communicate and coordinate activities with other departments within the Bronx Zoo and the other four WCS zoos & aquarium as necessary and as directed by the Director
Ensure compliance with WCS’s collective bargaining agreement with District Council 37 (DC 37), including, but not limited to, enforcing consistent practices in monitoring performance and discipline and adhering to all rules and regulations relating to interaction among WCS management, union members and DC 37 representatives
Interview and onboard new staff for the Operations Department as needed, providing supervision, guidance and follow-up as necessary
Develop project budgets, order materials, and assist the Director in the preparation of all departmental budgets, both Capital and Operating, and work within approved budgets
Work with WCS’s Environmental Compliance & Safety Specialist to assure adherence to environmental regulations, OSHA Compliance and safety training
Provide all necessary written and verbal reports, updates and analysis in a timely fashion to the Director as required and when requested
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Construction, Engineering or similar related field
Minimum five years' experience in managing facilities maintenance and trades in a zoo, aquarium, or similar facility with multiple buildings and grounds
Must have extensive exposure to various building trade disciplines and a familiarity with building codes and OSHA safety regulations
Must be familiar with building operations including chillers, boilers, life safety systems, electrical distribution, and HVAC building management systems
The Assistant Director must have excellent communication skills, be a team leader, builder of people and able to relate well to others
Proven ability to multitask and prioritize critical work
Ability to work effectively with other WCS departments, outside vendors/contractors, and government agencies in carrying out the principal functions of the Operations Department
Commitment to creating and maintaining a positive work environment for staff and guest experiences throughout the Bronx Zoo
Preferred
Previous experience managing staff in a union environment is preferred
Company
Wildlife Conservation Society
Wildlife conservation organization saving wildlife and wild places worldwide.
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
unknownKey Investors
Bezos Earth Fund
2025-10-23Grant
2024-04-29Grant
Leadership Team
David Leboff
Director of Payroll
Sarah Mulwa
Africa Regional Human Resources Director
Recent News
The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News
2026-06-14
2026-03-08
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