Animal Care Manager

Job Overview

Gone Wild Safari is seeking an experienced and dedicated Animal Care Manager to oversee the daily care and well-being of our exotic animal collection. This leadership position is responsible for managing animal care operations, supervising animal care staff, maintaining high standards of animal welfare, and ensuring all feeding, habitat maintenance, enrichment, and safety protocols are followed. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience working with exotic wildlife and is passionate about providing exceptional animal care in a safari park environment.

Job Duties

• Oversee the daily care, feeding, watering, and monitoring of all exotic animals within the safari park.
• Develop and manage feeding schedules, nutrition plans, and enrichment programs appropriate for each species.
• Supervise, train, and schedule animal care staff to ensure daily tasks are completed safely and efficiently.
• Monitor animal health and behavior, identify potential concerns, and coordinate with veterinarians as needed.
• Maintain accurate records of animal diets, medical treatments, behavior observations, and daily care activities.
• Ensure habitats, barns, fences, and animal holding areas are clean, secure, and maintained to the highest standards.
• Oversee animal introductions, transfers, and restraint procedures while following established safety protocols.
• Ensure compliance with all USDA, state, and local regulations regarding animal care and facility operations.
• Maintain inventory of animal feed, medications, enrichment supplies, and equipment.
• Assist with emergency response procedures involving animal escapes, injuries, severe weather, or other incidents.
• Work alongside park management to improve animal care programs and operational efficiency.
• Assist with grounds maintenance and other operational duties when needed.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Minimum of 3–5 years of hands-on experience caring for exotic animals in a zoo, safari park, wildlife facility, sanctuary, or similar setting.
• Previous supervisory or management experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of exotic animal husbandry, nutrition, behavior, enrichment, and habitat management.
• Experience safely working around large hoofstock, carnivores, primates, birds, reptiles, or other exotic species.
• Ability to recognize signs of illness, injury, stress, or behavioral changes and respond appropriately.
• Knowledge of USDA Animal Welfare Act standards and other applicable regulations is preferred.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to make sound decisions in emergency situations.
• Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds and perform physically demanding work, including walking long distances, bending, climbing, and operating equipment.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree in Zoology, Animal Science, Wildlife Biology, or a related field is preferred but not required with equivalent experience.
• Experience administering medications, assisting with veterinary procedures, or managing breeding programs is a plus.
• Certification in wildlife restraint, chemical immobilization, or related animal care training is beneficial.
• Forklift, tractor, skid steer, or other equipment experience is an asset.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is an experienced animal professional with strong leadership skills, sound judgment, and a commitment to the highest standards of exotic animal welfare. They thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on environment, lead by example, and are dedicated to ensuring both the animals and the animal care team receive exceptional support every day.

Pay: $15.00 - $18.00 per hour

Work Location: In person

Salary : $15 - $18