ANIMAL CURATOR
Job Summary
The Animal Curator provides professional and administrative direction and supervision of the Zoo’s animal collection, facilities, and personnel.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Provides leadership and daily supervision for 20-30 animal care employees and volunteers, overseeing all aspects of their duties, including daily inspection and evaluation of animal habitats and associated facilities.
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Identifies staff development needs and assists with the implementation of staff training.
- Maintains accountabilities for all aspects of the animal collection, facilities, and employee performance within the department at the Zoo.
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Contributes to planning and implementation of an organized master plan for the acquisition, management, and exhibition of a large, diverse assortment of resident animals.
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Conducts and reviews evidence-based welfare evaluations; and oversees the enrichment program for all zoo animals. Natural behavior-driven enrichment is measured and evaluated for effectiveness, with detailed records maintained for this program.
- Assists with initiating, administering, and reviewing protocols for animal care, safety, and operational protocols.
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Performs research and provides guidance on enclosure design, exhibition, and management techniques to meet a high standard of animal wellbeing, safety, and guest engagement.
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Contributes to the development of graphics, exhibit signage, and education programs.
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Maintains accurate animal records and ensures compliance with all applicable USDA, AZA, and regulatory standards. Provides data and reporting for permits and licenses as needed.
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Oversees and evaluates animal diets, implementing adjustments to meet needs and veterinary recommendations.
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Provides coverage for other curators as needed, ensuring continuity of care and operations.
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Collaborates successfully within and across departments to achieve goals for animal wellbeing, conservation, and guest engagement; Engages frequently with the public.
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Maintains regular professional contact with colleagues from other zoos and a wide variety of governmental agencies and may occasionally address concerns or complaints from outside the zoo.
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Submits purchase requests for departmental needs.
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Actively participates in efforts identified by the Zoo’s conservation program.
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Assists with management of pests and nuisance wildlife on Zoo grounds.
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Represents the Zoo in AZA managed animal programs and SAFE programs as designated.
- Regularly interprets and applies a wide variety of laws and regulations to administer and supervise the animal collections, facilities, and personnel.
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Participates in and, when appropriate, leads emergency response efforts involving animals, staff, or public safety.
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Assists the Director of Animals with risk management and mitigation duties and performs other duties assigned.
Skills, Abilities, and Knowledge
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Knowledge and experience in the husbandry and propagation of animals in captivity.
- Strong understanding of management principles and the ability to build and maintain effective working relationships within a collective bargaining unit environment
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Knowledge of USDA Animal Welfare Act regulations and AZA standards.
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Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to use good judgment and tact.
- Knowledge of operant conditioning, enrichment, and evidence-based animal welfare.
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Ability to conduct research and publish popular and technical scientific articles.
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Excellent communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with the public and act as the spokesperson
- Advanced knowledge of the theory or practical application of biology, zoology, or a related natural science discipline.
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Zoology, Life Sciences, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- A minimum of five (5) years of experience as an Animal Curator in an accredited zoological facility preferred.
Additional Requirements
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Availability to work weekends, holidays, and on-call shifts as required.
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Must possess a valid driver’s license and be able to operate zoo vehicles safely on and off zoo grounds.
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Occasional travel, including overnight and out-of-town trips, is required to visit other zoos, wildlife reserves, and similar areas for liaison, study, professional meetings, research and animal acquisitions.
Work Environment and Physical Requirements
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Work is performed primarily indoors but requires frequent outdoor inspections, supervision, and some labor on the Zoo grounds.
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Must be able to lift 50 pounds and walk or stand for extended periods.
- This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee.
Position : 3111031
Code : 1-5
Type : INTERNAL & EXTERNAL
Location : MESKER PARK ZOO
Posting Start : 10/10/2025
Posting End : 12/31/9999
