Animal Care Manager

• Full Time
• Application Closes 03 Apr 2026
• Wellington - Wellington
• Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist

Mō mātou: About us
At Te Nukuao Wellington Zoo we are guided by our kaupapa “Me tiaki, kia ora!” We care about making connections between animals, people, and our environment. We lead the way through connecting people with animals, saving animals in the wild and ensuring we’re a voice to be heard.  We’ve been a crucial part of Wellington for 120 years and are proud to be a progressive accredited Zoo. 

Mō te tūranga: About the role
Due to an internal promotion, we have an opportunity for our Animal Care Manager (ACM) position. This role is responsible for the overall leadership, decision-making and effective management of all animal care sections in the Animal Care Team. 

There are extensive interactions and collaboration with other staff across the Zoo, as well as engagement with our visitors, other zoos and regional associations. 

The ACM is supported by the three Animal Care Team Leaders.    More information is available in the attached position description. 

He kōrero mōu: About you 

• Experience leading, coordinating, developing and motivating staff in a multi-disciplined team.
• Extensive experience in animal care and animal management (at least 10 years).
• Demonstrated experience in species management.
• Experience in habitat maintenance and the ability to review habitats to ensure optimal animal welfare whilst balancing visitor needs and expectations.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and an ability to deal with the media, professionally representing the Zoo.
• Thorough understanding of zoo-based strategies and policies regionally and globally.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain external and internal working relationships. 
• Relevant bachelor's degree and/or Certificate in Zoo Animal Management and/or relevant equivalent experience. 
• ZIMS record-keeping experience is essential. 
• A reasonable level of fitness - we are on a hill. 

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer 

• Permanent Full-time. Monday to Friday position.
• Four weeks of annual leave.
• Sick leave entitlement of 15 days from the start of employment. 
• Uniform provided, including boots. 
• An extra accrued week of annual leave after 5 years of continuous service. 
• Zoo product discounts.  
• Annual flu vaccinations.  
• Free parking. 
• KiwiSaver employer contributions are in addition to the annual salary. 

 Please note the following:

• Applicants for this position should be New Zealand citizens, have a resident visa, or a valid New Zealand work permit.  
• If successful, you will be required to undergo a police background check, a Police vetting check, and a pre-employment drug and alcohol test. We arrange all of these for you through relevant providers. 
• When you apply, let us know if you have support or access requirements so we can assist you through the recruitment process. 
• Please contact people&culture@wellingtonzoo.com if you have any questions about the role or the application process.  

Tono mai | Apply Now
Applications close: NZT 5:00pm Friday 3 April 2026 submitted through our career website.

Wellington Zoo is a diverse workforce that reflects Aotearoa New Zealand. We are committed to accepting, valuing, and embracing the diversity of all people. Tūhono mai! Come join us!