Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Emergency Response • Animal Ambassador Programs • Animal Escape Protocols

SSP (Species Survival Plan)

Term from Zoological Management industry explained for recruiters

Species Survival Plan (SSP) is a program used by zoos and aquariums to help endangered animals survive. Think of it like a dating and family planning service for animals - it helps zoos decide which animals should breed with each other to keep the species healthy. When you see this on a resume, it means the person has worked with these important breeding programs that help prevent rare animals from going extinct. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) oversees these programs, making sure all participating zoos follow the same guidelines. It's similar to other conservation programs but specifically focuses on managing animal populations in human care.

Examples in Resumes

Coordinated SSP breeding recommendations for endangered red pandas

Participated in the Species Survival Plan for African penguins

Managed animal records and SSP compliance for big cat collection

Typical job title: "SSP Coordinators"

Also try searching for:

Animal Collection Manager Zoo Curator Wildlife Conservation Specialist Population Manager Animal Care Manager Zoological Registrar Conservation Program Coordinator

Where to Find SSP Coordinators

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where two zoos disagree about an SSP breeding recommendation?

Expected Answer: A senior coordinator should discuss diplomatic communication skills, reference AZA guidelines, explain the importance of genetic diversity, and describe how to find compromise while maintaining program integrity.

Q: What strategies would you use to improve participation in an SSP program?

Expected Answer: Should discuss relationship building with other institutions, education about program benefits, addressing facility concerns, and demonstrating successful outcomes from other SSP programs.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when making SSP breeding matches?

Expected Answer: Should mention genetic diversity, age of animals, facility capacity, transportation logistics, and previous breeding history.

Q: How do you maintain accurate records for SSP animals?

Expected Answer: Should explain using animal record software, importance of updating genetic and medical histories, tracking transfers between facilities, and maintaining breeding recommendations.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the main purpose of an SSP program?

Expected Answer: Should explain that SSPs help maintain healthy, genetically diverse populations of endangered species in zoos and aquariums to prevent extinction.

Q: What is the role of AZA in Species Survival Plans?

Expected Answer: Should explain that AZA oversees all SSP programs, sets standards, approves breeding recommendations, and coordinates between participating institutions.