Operations​/Maintenance Manager at Little Ray’s Nature Center

Operations/Maintenance Manager at Little Ray’s Nature Center

40 hour work week
- Flexible shifts required, willing to work some weekends and holidays.

About Us: Little Ray’s is a growing zoological facility dedicated to exceptional animal care, education, and guest experiences. We are seeking a skilled and motivated Operations Manager to help lead daily operations, oversee staff, and ensure smooth and efficient zoo functions.

Position Overview: The Operations/Maintenance Manager plays a key role in maintaining both the guest experience and the operational integrity of the zoo. This position combines leadership, customer service, and hands‑on facility management. The ideal candidate will be a strong communicator who’s equally comfortable managing people, assisting guests, and getting hands‑on with repairs and maintenance tasks.

• Front‑End Operations Management:
  Co‑manage daily visitor services and front‑end operations. Oversee phone, email, and in‑person guest communications. Assist with scheduling and coordinating bookings for encounters, tours, parties, and field trips.
• Customer Service:
  Ensure guests receive excellent service and memorable experiences. Handle inquiries and resolve issues professionally and efficiently.
• Social Media & Marketing:
  Assist with managing social media platforms and online engagement and marketing initiatives.
• Administrative Duties:
  Assist with creating and managing staff schedules. Track inventory and coordinate ordering of supplies.
• Facility & Maintenance Duties:
  Perform repairs and maintenance as needed throughout the zoo. Use power tools and equipment comfortably and safely to build, fix, or improve enclosures, fixtures, and facilities. Ensure a safe, functional, and clean environment for animals, staff, and guests.
• Housekeeping & Animal Care Support:
  Assist with cleaning and zoo‑keeping duties when needed.
• Staff Leadership:
  Assist with supervising, training, and supporting a small team of employees to maintain high standards of safety, professionalism, and guest satisfaction.

• Previous experience in operations management, facility management, with customer service skills (experience in a zoo, animal care, or hospitality environment required).
• Hands‑on maintenance or physical labor/construction experience using power tools.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Comfortable working around animals and the public.
• Physically capable of working long hours on your feet and lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.
• Valid Driver’s License, reliable vehicle, willingness to transport animals and travel on occasion.
• Salary‑competitive pay (based on experience).
• Opportunities for growth and professional development.
• Supportive, team‑oriented atmosphere.

• Salary‑competitive pay (based on experience).
• Opportunities for growth and professional development.
• A dynamic work environment involving animals and guest interaction.
• Valid Driver’s License, reliable vehicle, willingness to transport animals and travel on occasion.
• Supportive, team‑oriented atmosphere.

Please submit your resume and cover letter describing your relevant experience and interest in the position to jennifer.