Animal Curator (Full Time)

Kansas City Zoo • Kansas City, MO

249d

About The Position

The Animal Curator is responsible for assisting with the development, planning and coordination of all aspects of activities in assigned areas, including animal welfare, exhibits and holding facilities, and the overall direction of the Animal Care department. This position works closely with the animal managerial staff to coordinate daily operations, as well as formulating short, mid, and long term plans for the department. This position will directly supervise multiple animal care teams, who care for a variety of taxa including elephants, great apes, big cats, hoofstock, and avian species.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in biology, animal science, zoology or related field strongly preferred.
• 5-7 years' related experience and progressive responsibility at an accredited AZA facility required.
• At least 2 years' experience in a supervisory/managerial position required.
• Comprehensive and working knowledge of animal husbandry, behavior and procedures for proper care and training of exotic animals.
• Strong observation skills to recognize and evaluate conditions of animal health, diets and behavior.
• Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office, required.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Must have valid driver's license.
• Must have or be able to obtain negative TB test.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds and have sufficient mobility to ensure a safe work environment.
• Must be able to be stationary for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to manage stress, endure potentially high risk situations when feeding, transferring, or restraining animals, and make immediate decisions concerning the safety of animals, staff or the public.
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays and evening hours, in all weather extremes.
• Must pass a background and drug screening.

Responsibilities

• Oversees the overall welfare and management of the animal collection within assigned areas, including working closely with Veterinary Health staff to ensure proper nutritional, environmental and clinical care of collection.
• Overseeing the creation of, and commitment to, department and area operating and safety standards for both guests and staff.
• Communicating and carrying out plans from associated SSP's/TAG's, as well as communicating with other zoo professionals to enhance animal welfare, exhibit, and husbandry practices.
• Coordinating the acquisition and disposition of animals.
• Ensuring proper daily records are kept and maintained.
• Advising or making decisions on day-to-day animal management as needed.
• Overseeing and advising on animal planning in the areas of birth management, animal introductions, habitat modification, training, and enrichment.
• Assisting area staff with animal care, husbandry, and other duties when necessary.
• Oversees the overall management of area staff, including directly overseeing the work and development of animal care manager staff.
• Assisting with the hiring, coaching, monitoring, developing, and evaluating of area care staff.
• Balancing and managing staff schedules as it pertains to payroll.
• Works with other departments to ensure overall zoo goals and strategies are being met, including assistance with media, tours, speaking engagements, meetings, and other events.
• Assists with the developing and monitoring of department budget.
• Assists with the creation and implementation of departmental and collection strategic plans.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Museums, Historical Sites, and Similar Institutions
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree