If you are a strategic problem solver skilled in emergency planning and leading security operations to ensure guest satisfaction, the Indianapolis Zoo is the place for you! We are hiring a Director of Security to ensure state and local ordinances are upheld relating to the prevention of crime, traffic and parking regulations, and that effective security services are used. In addition, the position oversees the development of health and programs for various facets of the Zoo, promoting safe and healthy working conditions through subordinate managers.

Equally important, this leader ensures that guest experiences are consistently safe, welcoming and memorable, with a strong focus on proactive service, problem resolution, and creating a positive environment for all Zoo visitors. The Director of Security serves as a role model for exceptional guest engagement and works cross-departmentally to reinforce the Zoo's reputation for excellence in both safety and hospitality.

Ideal candidates are committed to advancing the Zoo's mission to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world. Additionally, building a guest-first culture within the Security team, setting expectations that staff interactions with guests are positive, courteous, and solution-oriented is essential to success in this role.

What You'll Do

Management

• Oversee and support all security initiatives and the management of the security team.


• Builds a guest-first culture within the Security team, setting expectations that staff interactions with guests are positive, courteous, and solution-oriented.

Emergency Preparedness

• Responsible for implementing, managing, and updating the Zoo's Emergency Preparedness Policies and Procedures.


• Develops and leads the Zoo's emergency drills and training initiatives.


• Serves as the Zoo's Weapons Team commander and oversees the Rides Evacuation Team.


• Must have the ability to acquire a license to carry a firearm.

Loss Prevention

• Investigates incidents involving acts of dishonesty or theft of Zoo assets.


• Participates in cash control procedures to include monitoring of cameras, following up on all discrepancies and providing drawer and safe audits as well as observing daily cash procedures by attendants.

Guest Relations

• Oversee all aspects of the Zoo's parking initiatives and operations with an emphasis on convenience, courtesy and safety for guests.


• Partners with Guest Experience leadership to ensure seamless coordination in parking, ticketing, wayfinding, and guest flow.


• Ensures staff respond in a timely, professional, and compassionate to incidents such as lost children/guests, visitor and staff injury/illness, and unruly guest situations.


• Works with cross-departmental leaders to identify opportunities to enhance the guest journey (signage, safety messaging, queue management, etc.)


• Reviews and analyzes guest feedback and incident reports to improve policies, training, and proactive guest engagement strategies.


• Proactively engages with guests during Zoo visits to demonstrate visible leadership, gather feedback and coach staff in real time.


• Works in concert with the Guest Services team to manage Zoo parking lot issues.

Business Planning & Budget

• Develops the annual Security business plan and budget. Manages and monitors department budget against plan goals.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in business management, occupational safety & health, security management or related field from an accredited institution is preferred; High School Diploma or G.E.D is required.


• At least ten (10) years of proven knowledge and experience with incident command and Emergency Preparedness programs.


• Five to ten (10) years of experience in safety, security and guest services, with demonstrated success in balancing security needs with positive guest experiences.


• Good interpersonal, motivational, and management skills.


• Strong oral and written communications skills.


• Ability to work in a high stress, rapidly changing environment and to anticipate and develop alternate solutions.


• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to de-escalate conflicts while maintaining a positive guest experience.

Additional Information

• This is a full-time, 40 hours per week, position. Weekend and evening hours are certain due to seasonal, special events, and peak season demands.


• Must possess a valid Indiana driver's license and be insurable by Zoo's insurance carrier.


• Must be able to acquire and maintain a weapons permit.


• Will be on call 24 hours a day; will work weekends, holidays and overtime as required.

Why the Indianapolis Zoo?

Join a mission-driven team where your strategic planning and security skills will help make a global impact. As a unique institution accredited as a zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden, the Indianapolis Zoo offers an inspiring environment for innovation, education, and conservation.

How to Apply:

Submit your resume and salary requirements to be considered.

Apply online today and help us amplify the voice of conservation.