An Operations Supervisor manages daily operations and activities for a company or organization. Primarily involved in supervising and coordinating the activities of front-line employees such as monitoring work progress, providing training, and ensuring compliance. Has authority over the work of their team members but typically reports to higher-level management.
Birmingham, AL Job Details Full-time $18.68 an hour 9 hours ago Qualifications High school diploma or GED Driver's License Full Job Description Birmingham Zoo Inc. (BZI) is a nonprofit, Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited Zoo and regional tourist attraction serving the greater Birmingham community and beyond. We advance wildlife conservation through responsible animal care, education, and local and global conservation efforts in support of our mission, Inspiring Passion to Conserve the Natural World.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Operations Supervisor is responsible for supporting daily operations to ensure the Zoo is clean, organized, and ready to deliver a high-quality, consistent guest experience. This role leads and participates in operational tasks across rides, attractions, janitorial services, and event logistics, and serves as a liaison with the Events team to support successful programs and activities. The Operations Supervisor contributes to coordination, communication, and implementation of operational practices that support efficiency, consistency, and safe operations. All employees serve as ambassadors of the Zoo and are expected to act in a professional manner consistent with the Zoo's mission and its core values of Passion, Excellence, Teamwork, Stewardship, and Inclusion . This expectation applies when interacting with the public or when reasonably perceived as representing the organization.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Leads and participates in daily operations as a working supervisor, supporting rides, attractions, janitorial services, and event logistics to ensure consistent guest experience and operational readiness. Trains and supports staff, including developing training materials, coordinating onboarding, and ensuring staff receive appropriate training and certification for assigned duties. Coordinates closely with the Events team to support planning and execution of events, including setup, breakdown, staffing, and operational needs. Establishes and monitors standards for cleanliness, attraction operations, and daily checklists, and conducts routine inspections to ensure expectations are met. Supports operational systems and resources, including scheduling, inventory, vendor coordination (e.g., waste management), and communication with leadership on daily operations and needs. Adheres to all organizational policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook and applicable departmental guidelines. This job description reflects the general nature of the work and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties. This position may be assigned additional duties reasonably related to the employee's primary responsibilities and organizational needs, provided such duties are within the employee's training, experience, and safety requirements and do not materially change the nature of the position.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
For purposes of this job description, "staff" may include employees, volunteers, interns, and other assigned personnel. No direct supervisory responsibility for staff. Provides functional leadership through training, guidance, and reinforcement of established protocols to support consistency in daily operations. Serves as a resource and point of contact for staff, supporting adherence to operational, safety, and Organizational standards.
SAFETY ANALYSIS
This position involves exposure to hazards common to outdoor and operational Zoo environments, including weather conditions, equipment, and other environmental factors. Specific training and procedures will be provided to maintain safety of people as the highest priority, followed by the safety of the animal collection. Use and understanding of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required based on assigned tasks and work conditions. Demonstrates the ability to safely operate equipment, vehicles, tools, and attractions, including adherence to established procedures and obtaining training or certification as applicable. Demonstrates the ability to follow cleaning and sanitation safety practices, including protocols related to Bloodborne Pathogens, and to work safely in public-facing environments with awareness of guests. Employees are required to follow all Zoo safety policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook and Emergency Procedure Manual and to promptly report injuries, incidents, or safety concerns through established reporting channels.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described below are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position, with or without reasonable accommodation. Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, climb, and move for extended periods while supporting rides, attractions, and janitorial operations in indoor and outdoor environments. Ability to use hands, fingers, and tools or equipment required for assigned tasks, such as but not limited to cleaning, maintenance, ride operation support, and setup/breakdown activities. Ability to communicate effectively, including exchanging information with team members and guests in active, public-facing environments. Ability to routinely move, lift, or carry items up to 50 pounds or more, such as but not limited to cleaning equipment, supplies, and operational materials. Ability to work in varying environmental conditions, including exposure to weather, humidity, temperature changes, noise, water, and wet or uneven surfaces.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
Birmingham Zoo Inc. recognizes that skills and knowledge may be gained through a combination of education, paid employment, volunteer service, and other relevant experiences. Candidates who meet most of the qualifications for a position are encouraged to apply. Education and Work Experience High school diploma or equivalent is required. Approximately three years of experience in operations or a related field is preferred, including experience supporting or leading staff; experience in a zoological institution, theme park, or similar environment is a plus. Skills, Knowledge, and Desired Qualities Demonstrates the ability to plan, organize, and prioritize work efficiently while following established procedures and supporting operational goals. Communicates clearly and respectfully, including the ability to present information and collaborate effectively with others to meet deadlines. Demonstrates integrity, professionalism, and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple responsibilities, maintain confidentiality, and support a team-oriented, mission-driven work environment. Other Requirements Employees working in or around animal areas may be required to meet health and safety requirements based on job duties and risk exposure, in accordance with applicable law. These requirements may include TB testing, rabies vaccination or titer verification, and documentation of other vaccinations. In situations where required documentation is not provided or current, employees may be required to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including an N95 respirator or similar protection, as determined by workplace safety protocols. May be required to obtain and maintain First Aid/CPR certification or be willing to complete training and certification as a condition of the role. Will be required to operate Zoo-owned vehicles (including golf carts), powered equipment, and/or ride or attraction systems. In such cases, must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and an acceptable driving record in accordance with Zoo policy. A pre-employment Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) check will be conducted, and an annual MVR review is required. May be required to travel on occasion.
HOURS OF WORK
Work schedules are based on operational needs and may include any combination of weekdays, weekends, evenings, holidays, and special events. Employees may be required to work during emergency situations or unusual operational circumstances.
ORGAZATIONAL COMMITMENT
Birmingham Zoo Inc. is committed to fostering a safe and welcoming workplace and encourages applicants with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. Birmingham Zoo Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Final candidates may be subject to background screening and drug testing, in accordance with applicable law. This job description outlines the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position and does not constitute an employment contract. The Zoo reserves the right to modify duties, responsibilities, and requirements at any time based on operational needs. Employment with Birmingham Zoo Inc. is at-will and may be terminated by either the employee or the organization at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law.
