Zoo Experiences Program Manager

Are you a visionary leader passionate about connecting people with the vibrant arts, nature, and history of our community? The City of Edmonton is looking for a Program Manager to oversee the strategic delivery of programs and services at the Edmonton Valley Zoo. In this role, you will provide essential leadership to a diverse team, ensuring that our facilities offer high-quality, memorable experiences for all visitors. Join us in shaping the cultural and recreational heartbeat of Edmonton.

As a Program Manager, you will strategically coordinate the delivery of welcoming and inclusive visitor experiences including programs and events for the Edmonton Valley Zoo. A significant part of your role involves overseeing a robust Volunteer Services program. You will act as a key collaborator, working with various internal and external partners to align facility offerings with community needs. Your work directly impacts revenue and customer retention, ensuring these vital public spaces thrive. Ultimately, you are responsible for the overall performance of initiatives set by the branch and section.

What will you do?

• Research, plan, and coordinate the implementation and evaluation of admission, visitor experiences, and registered programs.
• Develop market plan processes, annual budgets, manage financial variances, and strategies to enhance revenue.
• Build and lead a cohesive team through innovative recruitment, coaching, and performance evaluation.
• Develop and maintain relationships with internal and community partners and external organizations to ensure successful program delivery.
• Research traveling exhibits and service providers and develop business cases to support external animation at the Zoo
• Review trends in attractions and education to make recommendations for future development and facility growth.
• Ensure programming and animation adheres to Association of Zoos and Aquariums / Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums, and Alberta Museums Association accreditation standards
• Provide professional advice and direction to internal and external clients in the planning, development, implementation and evaluation of programs and interpretation within the branch
• Establish and maintain an inventory of all materials, equipment and resources within the Unit
• Research grant and sponsorship sources and opportunities to assist in the costs of program and service delivery, as well as managing grant projects in an effective and timely manner
• Ensure all health, safety, and security procedures (OH&S and ENVISO) are strictly followed across all sites
• Perform related work as required
• University Degree in Business, Education, Recreation Administration, Science, or a related specialized field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in program development, staff management, and customer experience enhancement, and volunteer management of a similar scope and scale (managing approximately 1,200 volunteers across multiple locations)

Skills required for success :

Conditions of Employment :

Work Environment :

The City of Edmonton values applicants with a diverse range of skills, experiences and competencies, and encourages you to apply. We strive to provide reasonable access and accommodations throughout the recruitment process. To request an accommodation, please contact employment@edmonton.ca. Learn more about our benefits https : / / bit.ly / COEbenefits

Up to 1 permanent full-time position

Hours of Work : 33.75 hours

Salary Range :

$44.283 - $55.601 (Hourly); $78,015.58 - $97,955.06 (Annually)

Recruitment Consultant :

JP / JR

Edmonton rests in the heart of Treaty Six territory in Alberta and the homelands of the Metis Nation.

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