NJ Civil Service Navigator

ZOO DIRECTOR

Code: 04342 Local Competitive

Zoo Director is a local-government title in New Jersey's competitive civil service, which means the way in is an open exam rather than a direct appointment.

Candidates need a bachelor's degree and 2 years of relevant experience.

How to apply

  • Exam

    This is an application to sit an exam and be placed on an eligible list for this title, not an application for a specific job. A $35 application fee applies to Non-Public-Safety announcements issued on or after 2026-02-01. There may be no current vacancy behind it, and the list it produces may not be certified for months or years.

  • Exam

    Open to permanent employees in the competitive division who hold a qualifying lower title in the same unit. A $35 application fee applies to Non-Public-Safety announcements issued on or after 2026-02-01. Like the open competitive exam, this places you on a list; it is not itself a job offer.

Official job specification

The text below is the official specification published by the New Jersey Civil Service Commission. The plain-language summary and analysis above are derived from it by NJ Civil Service Navigator.

Definition

Under direction, is responsible for overseeing the operation, administration and maintenance of a New Jersey county or municipally owned zoo; implements zoo policies and procedures; oversees facility and program development; performs other related duties as required.

Examples of work

  • Supervises and directs a large workforce of zoo employees.
  • Provides direction, guidance and oversight to volunteers.
  • Assigns duties to and trains departmental managers in operational zoo procedures.
  • Develops and administers broad, effective animal care programs that ensure proper treatment of all zoo animals.
  • Oversees comprehensive maintenance programs that ensure proper care of all animals, structures and grounds within the zoo area.
  • Carries out continuing programs for the selection of various species of animals that enhance the zoo.
  • Coordinates research projects and initiatives for the enhancement of the zoo.
  • Maintains liaisons with other zoos and zoo organizations.
  • Oversees the operation of specialized facilities on zoo grounds, such as gift shops and eating areas.
  • Creates and administers budgets.
  • Develops, recommends and administers the zoo's operating budget and rate schedules.
  • Develops and maintains positive professional relationships with staff and volunteers.
  • Promotes zoo programs and initiatives to schools, municipal and civil groups.
  • Prepares strategic long-range plans regarding facility design, program development and budget allocation.
  • Conducts staff meetings and briefings to disseminate information, discuss issues and establish goals and priorities.
  • Serves as spokesperson for zoo in media and public relations.
  • Collaborates with departmental managers, community organizations and schools.
  • May be required to travel to represent the zoo at conventions, conferences, and special events.
  • Directs the maintenance of essential records and files
  • Performs other related duties as required.
  • Will be required to learn to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office or related units.

Education

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree in Zoology, Animal Husbandry or Biology.

Experience

Two (2) years of experience supervising the operation and administration of a zoological park, animal sanctuary or zoo department that is responsible for the care and display of mammals, birds, reptiles or amphibians.

License

Appointees will be required to possess a driver's license valid in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform the essential duties of the position.

Knowledge, skills and abilities

  • Knowledge of the operation and administration of a public zoological park and specialized facilities on zoo grounds.
  • Knowledge of developing and administering comprehensive operations and maintenance programs for zoological parks.
  • Knowledge of the planning, selection, care and display of various bird, animal and reptile species.
  • Knowledge of supervisory methods and techniques.
  • Ability to write and present speeches and technical papers.
  • Ability to analyze problems and develop effective work methods.
  • Ability to train, supervise and assign work to lower-level employees.
  • Ability to teach and lead groups and activities.
  • Ability to administer zoo programs and outreach initiatives.
  • Ability to direct the maintenance of essential records and files.
  • Ability to maintain cooperative relationships with zoo staff and members of the public.
  • Ability to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office or related units.
  • Ability to read, write, speak, understand, and communicate in English sufficiently to perform duties of this position. American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication.
  • Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible if they can perform essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible.

Note

The examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A particular position using this title may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed.