Year-Round Employment Opportunities

Position Summary

The Executive Director serves as the chief executive and strategic leader of the Friends of the Zoo and is responsible for advancing the Zoo’s mission through visionary leadership, operational excellence, community engagement, and financial stewardship. This position oversees all administrative, fundraising, marketing, financial, human resources, and strategic planning functions of the Friends organization in collaboration with Zoo leadership, the Board of Directors, community stakeholders, and county leadership.

The Executive Director will foster an inclusive, mission-driven culture that values teamwork, innovation, accountability, and strong community partnerships while supporting the Zoo’s long-term sustainability and growth.

Reporting Relationship

Reports To: President and Board of Directors, Friends of the Zoo

Direct Reports

The Executive Director directly supervises:

Director of Human Resources

Director of Finance

Director of Marketing and Communications

Director of Education

Director of Food and Beverage

Director of Philanthropy

Director of Development

Membership Manager

Gift Shop Manager

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Organizational Leadership & Strategic Planning

• Provide strategic leadership and direction for the Friends of the Zoo organization in alignment with the Zoo’s mission, vision, and long-term goals.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate strategic initiatives in partnership with the Zoo Director and Board of Directors.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative workplace culture that supports employee engagement, innovation, volunteerism, and professional growth.
• Lead organizational planning efforts and ensure operational priorities support long-term sustainability and community impact.
• Serve as a visible and engaged ambassador for the Zoo throughout the community and regionally.
• Promote a culture of accountability, communication, collaboration, and continuous improvement across all departments.

Financial Management & Operational Oversight

• Oversee all financial operations of the Friends organization, including budgeting, forecasting, financial planning, and revenue generation strategies.
• Prepare and present annual operating budgets in collaboration with the Finance Committee and Board of Directors.
• Ensure sound fiscal management practices and achievement of organizational financial objectives.
• Identify and implement opportunities for earned revenue growth, operational efficiencies, and entrepreneurial initiatives that support the organization’s mission.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including maintaining the organization’s 501(c)(3) status.
• Oversee organizational policies, procedures, and operational standards to ensure effective and efficient operations.

Fundraising, Development & Community Engagement

• Lead and support all fundraising initiatives, including annual giving, membership development, grants, sponsorships, capital campaigns, donor cultivation, and special events.
• Develop and execute comprehensive short- and long-term fundraising strategies to sustain and grow organizational impact.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with donors, sponsors, foundations, community partners, public officials, and key stakeholders.
• Partner with staff and volunteers to identify and pursue grant opportunities and additional funding sources.
• Serve as a compelling spokesperson and advocate for the Zoo and Friends organization through public speaking, media engagement, and community outreach activities.
• Strengthen the organization’s visibility and reputation within the community and industry.

Human Resources & Team Leadership

• Provide leadership, coaching, mentorship, and professional development opportunities for staff and leadership team members.
• Oversee organizational staffing, recruitment, performance management, employee relations, and succession planning efforts.
• Approve hiring, disciplinary actions, and terminations in accordance with organizational policies and employment laws.
• Support the development of high-performing teams within a collaborative and mission-focused environment.
• Ensure volunteers are effectively engaged, supported, recognized, and aligned with the Zoo’s mission and goals.

Board & Stakeholder Relations

• Maintain strong and transparent communication with the Board of Directors regarding organizational operations, strategic priorities, and emerging issues.
• Support Board development, committee engagement, and governance initiatives.
• Collaborate effectively with Zoo leadership, Onondaga County leadership, community stakeholders, and partner organizations.
• Provide regular updates to members, staff, volunteers, and stakeholders regarding organizational initiatives, accomplishments, and goals.

Additional Responsibilities

• Attend and participate in Board meetings, committee meetings, leadership meetings, and organizational events as required.
• Lead regular meetings with directors and managers to support communication, accountability, and organizational alignment.
• Maintain appropriate professional memberships and affiliations, including AZA and other relevant industry organizations.
• Ensure adherence to organizational policies, procedures, and Zoo protocols.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of the organization’s mission and operations.

Qualifications & Preferred Experience

• Demonstrated senior leadership experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, operations, public administration, or a related field.
• Proven success in strategic planning, financial management, fundraising, and team leadership.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills with the ability to engage diverse audiences and stakeholders.
• Experience leading and developing high-performing teams within a collaborative environment.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, projects, and deadlines effectively.
• Knowledge of nonprofit governance, compliance, and 501(c)(3) operations preferred.
• Grant writing and grant management experience preferred.
• Passion for the mission of zoological, educational, conservation, and community-based organizations.

Education Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business administration, public administration, communications, finance, or a related field required. Master’s degree preferred.

Position Details

This is a full-time, on site, exempt position.

Salary range $110-121,500/yr

Evening, weekend, and event attendance may be required based on organizational needs.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of criminal background and driver history checks.

Friends of the Zoo is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace for all employees, volunteers, and community members.

To Apply: Please submit resume and cover letter via email to [email protected]. 

Full Time

Rate of pay: $20.60/hr

Position Summary

The Graphic Designer provides essential technical and creative support to the marketing department. This role is responsible for the production, layout, and editing of a high volume of visual collateral, including the member magazine, signage, and advertising. The focus is on technical precision, speed, and strict adherence to the Zoo’s brand identity.

Essential Job Duties

• Execute the design and layout of posters, flyers, invitations, booklets, and brochures based on established brand guidelines and project requirements.
• Support the production of the MyZoo member magazine, ensuring all files meet printing specifications and deadlines.
• Create and update large-scale environmental signage and exhibit displays, ensuring durability and visual clarity for the zoo grounds.
• Produce graphic assets for email marketing, website, and social media platforms as directed.
• Prepare "print-ready" files for external vendors and ensure final products meet the Zoo's brand and quality standards.

Skills Required

• Skilled in Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop. Proficiency in Premiere Pro for basic video edits is a plus.
• Full understanding of basic printing specifications (bleed, resolution, CMYK/RGB) and experience preparing files for various physical materials.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and successfully handle multiple simultaneous projects.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively as part of a team, taking direction from the Marketing Director and Senior Communications staff.

Training and Experience

• Minimum of 3–5 years of recent experience in graphic design and visual communication for both print and digital media.
•  Bachelor's degree in graphic design or communication graphics, or equivalent professional experience.
• Must possess a valid NYS driver’s license.
  
  

To Apply: Please submit resume and portfolio via email to [email protected].

Part-Time

$17/hr

Job Summary
The Sales Lead / Key Holder supports daily Gift Shop operations by leading the sales floor, delivering excellent guest service, and providing opening and closing coverage. This role serves as Manager on Duty during assigned shifts and represents the Zoo’s mission and nonprofit values. This is a part-time, hourly position and is not a management role.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the sales floor and support sales associates during assigned shifts
• Deliver exceptional customer service and resolve routine guest concerns
• Open and close the Gift Shop, secure cash, and facility
• Operate POS systems and follow cash handling procedures
• Maintain store standards, cleanliness, and visual presentation
• Assist with merchandise receiving, inventory entry, and restocking
• Schedule breaks and provide floor coverage as needed

Qualifications

• Retail or leadership experience preferred
• POS and basic computer skills
• Strong communication and customer service skills
  
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and climb ladders

To Apply: Please submit resume via email to [email protected]. 

Full Time

Rate of pay: $18.50/hr

Position Summary

Creates and delivers interactive educational programs, on and off-site, using animal biofacts and robotics; Travels throughout Central New York; Regular, full time, non-exempt position; Employment pending criminal and driver history records; Promotes the zoo and its mission.

Essential Job Functions:

• Will be assigned primary responsibilities (registration, program development, delivery and evaluation) for offsite programs and will be cross trained to assist with delivery for other programs as needed.
• Coordinates grant based literacy PreK program. This includes delivery of programs, budgeting, grant reporting, evaluation and scheduling with community partners.
• Coordinates virtual programming needs. This includes managing the CILC platform and studio equipment, writing, scheduling and delivery of programs.
• Works with Conservation Education Manager to achieve established program goals, including program impact and revenue.
• Supports teammates in delivering assigned programs when needed, providing program plans and materials.
• Works with community partners and clients to ensure success of programming.
• Adheres to Zoo policies and protocols.
• Attends regular staff meetings, including Education Staff, All-Staff, individual meetings with Conservation Education Manager and Friends of the Zoo meetings.
• Required to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends as needed.
• Required to work and drive in a variety of weather conditions.
• May be required to drive personal vehicle to programs when zoo vehicle is not available (mileage reimbursement provided).
• Responsible for zoo to you vehicle – Such as cleanliness, scheduling maintenance, and maintaining fuel level.
• Performs other duties as requested.

Desired Training and Experience:

• Preferred bachelor’s degree in education, zoology, biology, environmental science or a related field
• A minimum of one year’s experience working in an educational capacity in a school, zoo, aquarium, nature center or similar organization.
• Knowledge of NYS Learning Standards and the Common Core Learning Standards
• Previous experience working with grades PK-2 and camp programs preferred
• Previous knowledge in interactive virtual learning a plus
• Ability to demonstrate and communicate scientific and conservation messages in a lively, engaging manner to diverse audiences from infants to adults
• Excellent public speaking, organizational, record keeping and writing skills
• Ability to be self-directed, flexible, work as a team player, achieve established goals and maintain accurate records
• Proficient with computer programs, including Microsoft Office
• Capable of lifting 50 pounds
• Must have a valid NYS Driver’s License, reliable transportation and a registered and insured vehicle. Must be able to use personal vehicle for work purposes. NYS DMV Clearance.

To Apply: Please submit resume and cover letter via email to [email protected]. 

Rate of Pay: $16-$30/hr

Job Functions:

• Sets up facilities for events including dishware, glassware etc.
• Cleans china/silverware
• Maintains clean tables and banquet area
• Takes orders from customers
• Serves courses in timely manner
• Assists in breaking down tables after events
• Assists in training new staff, when necessary, as directed by Director of Food and Beverage
• Provides high levels of customer service at all times
• Adheres to Zoo policies and protocols

Experience:

• Two years serving experience
• Food and beverage experience preferred
• Customer service oriented; Team player; Self-motivated; Able to work in fast paced environment; Able to handle difficult customers
• Able to lift moderate to heavy items ( 50-75 pounds ); Continuous standing and walking while carrying items
• Shifts may include days, nights and / or weekends

To Apply: Please submit resume via email to [email protected].