Senior Curator (Full-Time, Exempt)

Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo • Tampa, FL

343d

About The Position

Join Our Animal Leadership Team as a Senior Curator at ZooTampa! Are you an experienced leader with a passion for animal care, wildlife conservation, and team development? ZooTampa is seeking a highly qualified Senior Curator to join our dynamic team and lead the care and management of our diverse animal collection, with a focus on elephants. This is your chance to make a lasting impact at one of Florida's top zoological institutions, renowned for its commitment to excellence in animal welfare and guest experience. This position is tailor-made for individuals with extensive experience in elephant care. You'll have the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to our elephants' well-being, from managing daily operations to overseeing enrichment programs. As a Senior Curator, you'll shape the future of ZooTampa's animal care teams, mentoring and developing a skilled staff while working collaboratively across departments. We're looking for someone with a proven track record in leadership, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation. This is more than just a job-this is a chance to influence conservation programs and exhibit design that will engage the public and inspire future generations. You'll represent ZooTampa nationally and internationally, putting your expertise to work in the world of conservation.

Requirements

• A Bachelor of Science or higher degree in the natural sciences or related field or equivalent specialized training.
• A minimum of five years of curatorial experience in the zoological field.
• Broad based knowledge of animal diets, needs and habits, hazards, safety measures and precautions applicable to the housing and care of animals.
• Knowledge of wildlife laws as they relate to the State of Florida, USF&WS and USDA.
• Ability to diagnose team member training and development needs of subordinates and develop training programs.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (both verbal and written).
• Proficient with Word, Excel, Power Point and Access, and able to adapt well to various other computer programs.

Nice To Haves

• International travel experience.
• A broad range of husbandry management experience with various taxa in a zoological setting.
• Working knowledge of ZIMS.

Responsibilities

• Perform diverse administrative and supervisory functions in directing the operation and maintenance of the living collection of animals.
• Assist in operational management and supervision of functions such as custodial care and welfare of all animals in area of responsibility.
• Continuously monitor and analyze Department functions and make recommendations to the S.V.P. Chief Zoological Officer and S.V.P Chief Conservation and Animal Health Officer on current and future Department and Zoo needs.
• Serve as principal assistant to the S.V.P. Chief Zoological Officer in planning, organizing, coordinating and managing the operation and maintenance of the Zoo's animal population.
• Supervise Zoo personnel and functions as it relates to the Animal Department.
• Develop and implement animal population plan objectives.
• Supervise assigned animal divisions to ensure excellence in animal welfare, guest experience and fulfillment of ZooTampa's mission, core goals and business objectives.
• Work with the Senior Director of Animal Programs to assist in the development of conservation programs, guest engagement and messaging.
• Assist in the development of engaging animal exhibit concepts and plans that reflect our 'brand' strategies.
• Develop and implement animal husbandry and enrichment programs in coordination with the Curator of Behavioral Husbandry.
• Represent the Zoo nationally and internationally as required.
• Supervise regulatory and contractual requirements related to functional areas of responsibility to ensure the Zoo remains in compliance.
• Provide leadership guidance and development of zoo curators under areas of responsibility.
• Assist with hiring, training, and supervising staff members.
• Manage certain business aspects of the zoo, including developing and managing budgets.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance options.
• 403(b) Retirement Plan.
• Paid Time Off (Generous PTO Vacation and Wellness time).
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Tuition Forgiveness.
• Free gym membership.
• Free admission to the Zoo, MOSI, and the Florida Aquarium.
• Free or discounted admission to many attractions in Florida.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Museums, Historical Sites, and Similar Institutions
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees