Animal Care Curator - Desert Wilds

LIVING DESERT DBA THE LIVING DESERT • Palm Desert, CA

11d

About The Position

Join Our Team at The Living Desert – Animal Care Curator – Desert Wilds
Are you a passionate leader with a love for wildlife and a commitment to animal conservation? The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is looking for an Animal Care Curator to oversee our incredible Desert Wilds habitats! If you're ready to lead a dynamic team and make a lasting impact on animal care, this role is for you.
About the Role:
As the Animal Care Curator, you will lead and manage a dedicated team of animal care professionals who oversee a diverse range of species. You’ll be responsible for ensuring animals thrive in their habitats, implementing cutting-edge behavioral training and enrichment programs, and engaging guests in meaningful, inspiring experiences.
This leadership role requires a skilled communicator, an enthusiastic mentor, and a forward-thinking individual who thrives in a collaborative environment. You’ll support The Living Desert’s mission of desert conservation through preservation, education, and appreciation.

Requirements

• A strong leader with proven experience in animal care and supervisory roles, ideally with at least three years in a supervisory capacity in exotic animal care.
• A deep understanding of animal behavior and operant conditioning, with the ability to develop and implement training programs.
• A strong communicator, comfortable engaging with diverse audiences, from staff members to guests.
• Someone who embraces innovation, collaboration, and has a passion for zoo management, animal conservation, and public education.
• Familiarity with AZA accreditation standards and a commitment to maintaining the highest quality care for our animal residents.

Nice To Haves

• A Bachelor’s degree in Zoology, Animal Science, or a related field is preferred, but experience can substitute for education requirements.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the care and management of a diverse collection of species, including large carnivores, canid and avian species, reptiles including venomous snakes and lizards, the off public view small carnivore breeding center, and the diverse Australian Adventures.
• Lead a team consisting of Assistant Animal Care Curator, Animal Care Keepers, volunteers, and interns, inspiring them to provide exceptional animal care and guest experiences.
• Facilitate animal training programs and ensure positive behaviors are reinforced through operant conditioning.
• Create enriching experiences for each species, enhancing their natural behaviors in ways that engage guests and support conservation messaging.
• Collaborate with the Director of Animal Care and Health to establish goals for animal health, wellbeing, and breeding recommendations.
• Ensure the safety and security of staff, animals, and guests through strict adherence to safety protocols.
• Contribute to The Living Desert’s educational programs, presenting animal-related connections and behind-the-scenes tours for guests.
• Monitor and evaluate daily operations, helping to manage staff schedules and ensure high standards of cleanliness, care, and safety.

Benefits

• Meaningful Work: Contribute directly to The Living Desert’s mission to inspire, educate, and conserve.
• Leadership Opportunity: As a key member of our leadership team, you’ll have the chance to mentor and shape the next generation of animal care professionals.
• Impactful Community Engagement: Help connect guests with wildlife through unique, engaging animal encounters and educational presentations.
• A Thriving Environment: Work in one of the most innovative zoos in the world, where desert conservation comes to life every day.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager