Hamilton Zoo at Te Kaaroro Nature Precinct is a Zoo and Aquarium Associate Australasia (ZAA) accredited and World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) member zoo.  Owned and operated by Hamilton City Council we are set in 35 hectares of tranquil surroundings and are home to more than 500 native and exotic animals.

To find out more about Hamilton Zoo, click here.

He angituutanga: The opportunity 

Te Kaaroro Nature Precinct is seeking an experienced and dedicated team leader to oversee our Birds and Ectotherms team. If this sounds like the right fit for you, we’d love to chat!

In this role, you’ll oversee, and actively contribute to the daily operations of our Birds and Ectotherms section.

You’ll not only be leading the team but also working alongside them, ensuring you’re present and connected to the work on the ground.

You will support the performance and development of your team members while providing hands-on oversight of animal husbandry.

We are looking for someone who:

• is a dynamic people leader who enjoys leading and inspiring their team
• has have exceptional communication skills
• enjoys being part of a team but can confidently work independently
• thrives in a fast-paced environment and is able to adapt to changing priorities
• is available to work within a 7‑day roster to support the care of our animals

Oo puumanawa me oo wheako | Your skills and experience

• At least 5 years experience in operational husbandry
• Tertiary level qualification in animal management or equivalent (preferred)
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to take people on a change journey
• An understanding of modern zoo principals and practices including legislation

He aha te wariu o te utu kaimahi? | What’s the salary? 

The salary range starts at $77,000 and is dependent on skills and experience.

Ngaa waahi whakarato painga kei a maatou: What we offer 

• Opportunities for professional development.
• Two Wellbeing days per year.
• Free health insurance through Unimed including hospital/surgery grade cover and discounted. membership rates for family members.
• Free annual health checks and flu vaccination.
• Ability to purchase additional annual leave.
• Eye testing/glasses cost reimbursement.
• Discounted purchases from local businesses; gym memberships, cafes, dentists, hairdressers and many more.

Me Tono Inaaianei!: Apply Now! 

• View the Position Description
• Click apply
• ​Complete your application.

If you wish to include a cover letter with your application, please combine this in the same file as your resume and upload as a PDF file. Alternatively, you can use the 'Write a message to the Hiring Team' text box.

Applications close on the: 5/03/2026

Note: We will be shortlisting as we receive applications.

Council is committed to honouring the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi/Treaty of Waitangi through its relationship with Kiingitanga, Waikato Tainui, mana whenua and maataa waka within Hamilton Kirikiriroa.

All candidates will be notified of the outcome on their application via email. Short-listed candidates will be required to complete an interview process, reference checks and a criminal check. This role is Safety Sensitive so a pre-employment medical including drug and alcohol test will be required. View more information about these checks and our commitment to the Privacy act here by clicking here

It is important to us that we support you throughout our selection process (interview and assessments). If you have any access needs during this process, let us know in advance so we can make sure these are met.

As a council, we believe in creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and belongs. We value inclusiveness (Kotahitanga) – we respect and value the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents that everyone brings. 

This role is being sourced directly. If/where Hamilton City Council requires the support of a recruitment agency, we will seek this support from our panel of selected agencies. Hamilton City Council will not be responsible for, and will not pay, any commissions, fees or other payments related to unsolicited contact.