Brandon Fuentes
Sacramento
Summary
Experienced zoological professional with nearly 18 years at the Sacramento Zoo, bringing a unique blend of animal care leadership, regulatory compliance, and institutional operations expertise. Currently serving as Animal Care Supervisor & Registrar, overseeing herpetology and carnivore programs, staff leadership, and all animal records and transfers. Proven track record in AZA accreditation, permitting, and cross-departmental coordination. Recognized for strong leadership, regulatory knowledge, and commitment to animal welfare, safety, and organizational excellence.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Animal Care Supervisor & Registrar
Sacramento Zoo
01.2008 - Current
- Supervise approximately 25 zookeepers across herpetology and interim carnivore sections
- Oversee staffing, training, and performance management
- Manage all animal records, transfers, and compliance documentation
- Lead all animal transfer activities and coordination
- Ensure compliance with regulations, permits, and inspections
- Maintain and train staff on ZIMS
- Collaborate with veterinary and leadership teams
- Serve on Zoo Safety Committee
- Special Projects Coordinator
- Led AZA accreditation preparation
- Managed permitting and compliance documentation
- Coordinated cross-departmental regulatory efforts
- Education Department Roles
- Progressed through multiple summer camp positions
- Delivered conservation and wildlife education programming
- Assisted with curriculum and hands-on learning
- Guest Services Roles
- Supported front-line guest operations
- Managed inquiries and visitor experience
Education
Bachelor of Science - Zoology
Oregon State University
Skills
- Animal Care Leadership & Staff Supervision
- AZA Accreditation & Compliance
- Animal Records Management (ZIMS)
- Permitting & Regulatory Inspections
- Animal Transfers & Logistics
- Herpetology & Carnivore Management
- Cross-Departmental Operations
- Training & Staff Development
- Safety & Risk Management
- Guest Engagement & Education
Affiliations
- - Member, Zoological Registrars Association (ZRA)
- - Member, AZA Institutional Data Management Advisory Group (IDMAG)
- - Participant, AZA Effective Leadership: Continuous Growth Cohort (2026)
- - Member, Safety Committee-Sacramento Zoo
Certification
- Zoological Registrar Association Registrar Certificate Program
Timeline
Animal Care Supervisor & Registrar
Sacramento Zoo
01.2008 - Current
Bachelor of Science - Zoology
Oregon State University
Additional Training
- AZA Effective Leadership: Continuous Growth, 2026 cohort
- GRAZE: Thriving Animal Care Professional course