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Zoo Manager

Zoo managers oversee the running of a zoo, reserve or aquarium, which can include staff management, budget control and the development of conservation programmes.

 

Tasks & duties

Zoo managers may do some or all of the following tasks:

  • assume overall responsibility for the health and well-being of animals
  • manage the zoo's operational budget
  • manage staff and volunteers
  • ensure animal enclosures are in good order and recommend or undertake any necessary maintenance, repairs or design changes
  • if necessary, refer animals for veterinary procedures
  • plan displays and exhibits
  • keep up to date with relevant legislation such as that relating to wildlife and transport procedures
  • read reports written by zookeepers or park rangers
  • plan and manage animal conservation and research programmes
  • give public talks on conservation issues
  • oversee the relationship between the zoo and local community
  • plan the movement of animals between locations

 

Specialisations

Zoo managers can work at zoos, aquariums, wildlife parks and reserves.

 

Skills & knowledge

Zoo managers need to have:

  • knowledge of animal biology and the and scientific classification of animals
  • skill in caring for and handling animals
  • an understanding of legislation relevant to their work.
  • budgeting, administration and business management skills
  • people management skills
  • knowledge of botany
  • good communication skills, including presentation and public speaking skills
  • organisational ability

 

They may also need to have some veterinary skills.

 

Entry requirements

There are no specific requirements to become a zoo manager, but experience working with captive animals is preferred and a Certificate in Captive Wild Animals is recommended.

It may be useful to have a tertiary qualification such as a Bachelor of Science or a veterinary qualification.

 

Secondary education

To enter tertiary training, you need to have HSC equivalent that includes science subjects.

 

Tertiary education

It may be useful to have a tertiary qualification such as a Bachelor of Science or a veterinary qualification.

Management courses are also useful for zoo managers.

 

Training on the job

Skills are learned on the job. Zoo managers also attend conferences and seminars to expand and update their skills.

 

Useful experience

Useful experience for zoo managers includes:

  • working with animals, especially exotic animals
  • work as a zookeeper
  • university courses in biological sciences
  • management experience

 

Related courses

Microbiology
Veterinary Assisting
Veterinary Science

 

For more information, please refer to myfuture.

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