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Zoo Manager Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

$22 - $24/hr

Manage employees in accordance with state and federal laws. * Incorporate sustainable resources into the culinary selections. * Perform specialty projects as assigned by the Executive Chef. * Respond ...

Kitchen Manager(s), Sous Chef(s) and Executive Chef Who are we : For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners ...

$22 - $24/hr

Manage employees in accordance with state and federal laws. * Incorporate sustainable resources into the culinary selections. * Perform specialty projects as assigned by the Executive Chef. * Respond ...

WI · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Assign priorities, manage workloads, and help keep design deliverables on schedule. * Review ... COST of Wisconsin, Inc. creates award-winning themed construction for zoos, theme parks, casinos ...

Blaster

West Bend, WI · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

... to the Milwaukee County Zoo, various Milwaukee Museums, Summerfest, State Fair, and local ... Exceptional time management and organizational skills * A strong work ethic with a solid attendance ...

WI · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Manage Kafka Brokers, ZooKeeper/KRaft, Kafka Connect, and Schema Registry. * Monitor Kafka cluster performance, broker health, producer throughput, consumer lag, and latency. * Configure and maintain ...

Showing results 21-40

Zoo Manager information

What does a zoo manager do?

A Zoo Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a zoo, ensuring the welfare of animals, and managing staff such as keepers, educators, and veterinarians. They coordinate animal care, develop and implement policies, manage budgets, and work to ensure the zoo meets all regulatory and safety standards. Zoo Managers may also be involved in conservation programs, public education initiatives, and community outreach. Their role requires strong leadership skills, knowledge of animal husbandry, and effective communication with various stakeholders.

What are some common challenges a zoo manager faces in balancing animal welfare with operational responsibilities?

Zoo Managers often navigate the complex balance between ensuring top-tier animal care and managing operational tasks such as budgeting, staffing, and guest services. Prioritizing animal welfare requires coordinating with veterinarians, curators, and keepers to maintain proper habitats and enrichment, while also handling logistical duties and regulatory compliance. A key challenge is making decisions that support both animal health and the zoo's financial sustainability, often requiring creative problem-solving and strong leadership. Collaboration with diverse teams is essential to address unforeseen issues quickly and maintain high standards across all areas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a zoo manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Zoo Manager, you need expertise in animal care, facility operations, and staff management, typically supported by a degree in zoology, biology, or a related field. Familiarity with animal management software, regulatory compliance systems, and budgeting tools is also important. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help in managing teams and addressing the diverse challenges of running a zoo. These skills ensure animal welfare, regulatory adherence, and a positive experience for both staff and visitors.

How do you become a zoo manager?

To become a zoo manager, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in zoology, biology, or a related field, along with several years of experience working with animals or in zoo operations. Many zoo managers also pursue advanced degrees or certifications in animal management or conservation and develop strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Zoo jobs in Wisconsin?

The most popular types of Zoo jobs in Wisconsin are:

What are popular job titles related to Zoo Manager jobs in Wisconsin?

For Zoo Manager jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Zoo Manager job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Food Service - Sous Chef - Henry Vilas Zoo

SSA Group

Madison, WI • On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


SSA Group rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

376th of 740 rated retailers


Job description

Who are we:
At SSA, we believe our work matters because the people do. For more than 50 years, we've helped create experiences that leave people feeling connected, inspired, and reminded that fun still matters.
Whether you're looking for your first job, building your career, or bringing years of experience to a new role, you'll be part of a team that values your ideas, supports your growth, and encourages you to make an impact. More than 54% of our leaders are promoted from within, reflecting our commitment to investing in people and creating opportunities to succeed.
Position Title: Sous Chef
Reports to: Executive Chef
Who are we:
For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to remain mission-focused.
We bring together admissions, culinary, and retail with innovation and human connection to shape a seamless guest journey.
Our focus is on people, innovation, and operational intelligence as a means to create special moments with lasting impact. We call it 452 Hospitality, the foundation of how we serve our partners and their communities.
Responsibilities
  • Live out 452 Hospitality by delivering warm, welcoming, and memorable experiences for every guest and client.
  • Create Competitive quality products.
  • Supervise and participate in creating high-quality products for events and food service locations.
  • Assist in menu pricing and preparation.
  • Estimate food consumption for events and request necessary products.
  • Demonstrate new cooking techniques.
  • Train, coach, counsel, and resolve problems.
  • Comply with all food safety regulations and practices.
  • Implement and enforce sanitary practices for food handling, general cleanliness, and maintenance of kitchen and/or dining areas.
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable health and safety regulations.
  • Monitor and track proper cooking and holding temperatures.
  • Support the management of payroll and controllable profit within established guidelines.
  • Oversee quality, product levels, and inventory of products.
  • Manage employees in accordance with state and federal laws.
  • Incorporate sustainable resources into the culinary selections.
  • Perform specialty projects as assigned by the Executive Chef.
  • Respond to guest requests and take action to ensure client satisfaction.
  • Perform other tasks as deemed necessary.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
  • Uphold and demonstrate a complete understanding of company policies and procedures.

Job Requirements
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to articulate to our client, General Manager and HQ personnel.
  • Proven leadership skills with an understanding of the importance of team building/development, while fostering partnerships.
  • Exceptional problem-solving/decision-making skills combined with the ability to be organized.
  • Demonstrates financial management, merchandising, analytical, planning, and leadership skills.
  • Demonstrates the ability to remain flexible in a fast-paced environment.
  • Computer knowledge and skill level for basic office functions.
  • Physical ability to stand for extended periods and to move and handle boxes (35lbs) as necessary to operate, which entails lifting, and perform all functions as set forth above.
  • Ability to work varied hours/days, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as needed.

IDEA + Belonging
  • Promote an inclusive & supportive approach within the Brand team, with networking continuing at all units.
  • Focuses on removing barriers and empowering growth and opportunity for team members at all levels.
  • Leads by example through Sustainability/Conservation efforts; displays knowledge of efforts in business application as well as giving adequate opportunity for teaching to unit staff as necessary.
  • Engages with SSA/Unit in driving community effort through engagement activities and focus. On opportunities of giving back.

Previous Experience
  • Three years of food preparation experience.
  • ServSafe or Food Handling Certified.
  • Knowledge of HAACP
  • Culinary training, must be 18 or older.

This is by no means an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, efforts or working conditions associated with this job description. SSA Group reserves the right to revise the job description or to require that other or different tasks be performed when circumstances change (i.e. emergencies, changes in personnel, workload, rush jobs or technological developments)
Compensation and Benefits
      • Pay Rate: $22.00-$24.00 per hour, based on experience and qualifications.
      • Full-Time, non-exempt, eligible for overtime pay.
      • Primarily daytime/early shifts, with occasional evenings and a schedule that generally does not require working both weekend days.
      • Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day.
      • Paid Time Off plan: up to 144 hours based on tenure.
      • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance and other voluntary benefits for you and your family; employee premiums applicable.
      • Participation in a 401(k) program with a 15% company match (must be 21 years or older, eligible after one year of employment with 1,000 hours worked, available to enroll during Open Enrollment Periods).
      • SSA Paid Benefit: Up to 120 hours of Paid Leave for qualifying reasons, including Parental Leave and your or your family's serious medical conditions.
      • Up to 40 hours Paid Bereavement.
      • On-Demand Pay Program: Get access to a portion of earned wages before payday.
      • Meal Plan & Employee Discounts where applicable
      • Tuition Discount through Partnership College
      • Paid sick leave is provided in accordance with applicable state and local laws. Accrual rates, caps, and usage rules vary by location.

      Locations include: Arizona, California, Chicago, Pittsburgh, Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, Washington, D.C.. Colorado: Employees accrue 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked, up to 48 hours per year, under the Healthy Families and Workplaces Act (HFWA). Maryland: Employees accrue at least 1 hour of paid sick and safe leave for every 30 hours worked, up to 40 hours per year, as required under the Maryland Healthy Working Families Act. Washington: Employees accrue 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 40 hours worked, in accordance with the Seattle Paid Sick and Safe Time.

SSA Holdings and its affiliated companies, including SSA Group, A&F Souvenir, Cinchio Solutions, and Behavioral Essentials, are equal opportunity employers. We are committed to diversity and inclusion in our hiring practices and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. A diverse team strengthens our collective impact.
All California Residents: By submitting your job application, you agree you have reviewed the SSA Group California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) Candidate and Employee Privacy Notice ("Notice").
San Francisco Residents: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Please see the "Fair Chance Ordinance - Know Your Rights" document for more information. By submitting your job application, you agree you have reviewed the "Fair Chance Ordinance - Know Your Rights" document.
We accept applications for this position on a rolling basis. Apply anytime at thessagroup.com. Applications are reviewed as received, and the position remains open until filled.
SSA Holdings and its affiliated companies, including SSA Group, A&F Souvenir, Cinchio Solutions, and Behavioral Essentials, are equal opportunity employers. We are committed to diversity and inclusion in our hiring practices and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. A diverse team strengthens our collective impact.
All California Residents: By submitting your job application, you agree you have reviewed the SSA Group California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) Candidate and Employee Privacy Notice ("Notice").
San Francisco Residents: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Please see the "Fair Chance Ordinance - Know Your Rights" document for more information. By submitting your job application, you agree you have reviewed the "Fair Chance Ordinance - Know Your Rights" document.

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