Head of Operations at Sydney Zoo Located in the heart of Western Sydney, Sydney Zoo strives to showcase a broad range of native and exotic animals using technology and advanced exhibit design, with a strong focus on animal welfare, conservation, and educating our visitors about animals and their habitats. Environmental and social awareness play a vital role in our message that highlights the indigenous culture and human influence on the environment. The Position This is an outstanding opportunity to lead an exciting team at Sydney Zoo in the role of our Head of Operations , utilising your skills in an area that you are genuinely passionate about. This role will commence as soon as possible. The Head of Operations is responsible for the strategic and day-today management of the visitor experience, some commercial functions, including Food & Beverage, Retail, Visitor Services, and Education & Conservation. This role ensures the delivery of exceptional visitor experiences, operational excellence, commercial outcomes, and the highest standards of safety. Skills, Knowledge, and Relevant Experience ESSENTIAL Tertiary qualification in front line management, business or other appropriate discipline and relevant work experience, or an equivalent combination of extensive relevant experience and/or education & training. Tourism or related experience and knowledge. High level staff supervision skills, proven ability to get the best from people. Experience leading commercial functions such as Food & Beverage or Retail. Ability to work independently under broad direction, being able to demonstrate a high level of initiative and organisational skills, the ability to plan and execute activities, set priorities and make sound judgements so as to meet goals and objectives. Proven ability to develop and manage an area of activity, including setting directions, monitoring workflows, supervising staff, providing feedback, managing performance and resolving grievances. This includes managing external consultants. A successful track record in identifying opportunities and effectively implementing innovative initiatives. Highly developed interpersonal and cross-cultural communication skills, including negotiation/conflict resolution skills. Demonstrated judgement and problem-solving skills in a pressured environment, combined with strong ability to prioritise competing tasks. Knowledge of and commitment to Workplace Health and Safety and Equal Employment Opportunity principles. DESIRABLE Training and/or experience in an emergency response warden role Previous attractions experience in an operational role. First aid certificate Why should you join the Zoo Crew? By joining the exciting Sydney Zoo Crew, you will not only be in close proximity to some of the most incredible animals native to Australia and across the world, but you will also join an amazing team of dedicated people! Our team are passionate, devoted, and heavily inspired by Sydney Zoo’s values and mission to deliver a world-class visitor experience that encourages the community to make a difference, and all with a smile! We are very proud of our diverse team of staff that represent all the different backgrounds and cultures that call Western Sydney ‘home.’ We love the individuality across our team of people as much as we love the collection of animals we so proudly care for. Whether you are looking for your first job, wanting to jump back into the workforce, or simply need a stimulating change to shake up your career, we encourage you to take the next step and join in our vision to make a difference. Sydney Zoo is committed to providing a positive workplace and fostering employee engagement and wellbeing. We know how important it is to recognise and thank our staff for making Sydney Zoo great and we do this by providing our team with free annual flu vaccinations, workplace massages, quarterly staff BBQs, training opportunities, and fulfilling fundraising events, just to name a few! If you would like to become part of an amazing team that does all of this and so much more, then look no further… Sydney Zoo is for you! Applications Please apply directly via the Sydney Zoo Website Careers Page https://sydneyzoo.com/about/careers . Applicants will be required to provide a current resume and a covering letter outlining your ability to meet the above selection requirements. Applications close at 9am Tuesday, 10th February 2026. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and people with disability are encouraged to apply for all Sydney Zoo positions. Sydney Zoo is a fully COVID-19 vaccinated workplace. We will require proof of your double vaccination status prior to commencement. Please contact us for general enquiries, including if you have any queries regarding our policy or to obtain a copy of the Sydney Zoo Vaccination policy. You can contact us by email careers@sydneyzoo.com or by phone to 7202 2560 Sydney Zoo is committed to the principles and practices of Equal Employment Opportunity and Cultural Diversity.
