Animal Curator

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Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Garden

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Animal Curator

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Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Garden is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Animal Curator to join our team. This position reports to the Director of Animals, Conservation, and Education and oversees a diverse group of taxa, including rhino, giraffe, Humboldt penguin, Komodo dragon, and more. This position also plays a key role in managing our hellbender rearing and release program.

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Essential Duties and Responsibilities

\t\t\t\t\t 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.

\t\t\t\t\t Identifies staff development needs and assists with the implementation of staff training.

\t\t\t\t\t Maintains accountabilities for all aspects of the animal collection, facilities, and employee performance within the department at the Zoo.

\t\t\t\t\t Contributes to planning and implementation of an organized master plan for the acquisition, management, and exhibition of a large, diverse assortment of resident animals.

\t\t\t\t\t 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.

\t\t\t\t\t Assists with initiating, administering, and reviewing protocols for animal care, safety, and operational protocols.

\t\t\t\t\t Performs research and provides guidance on enclosure design, exhibition, and management techniques to meet a high standard of animal wellbeing, safety, and guest engagement.

\t\t\t\t\t Contributes to the development of graphics, exhibit signage, and education programs.

\t\t\t\t\t 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.

\t\t\t\t\t Oversees and evaluates animal diets, implementing adjustments to meet needs and veterinary recommendations.

\t\t\t\t\t Provides coverage for other curators as needed, ensuring continuity of care and operations.

\t\t\t\t\t Collaborates successfully within and across departments to achieve goals for animal wellbeing, conservation, and guest engagement; Engages frequently with the public.

\t\t\t\t\t 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.

\t\t\t\t\t Submits purchase requests for departmental needs.

\t\t\t\t\t Actively participates in efforts identified by the Zoo's conservation program.

\t\t\t\t\t Assists with management of pests and nuisance wildlife on Zoo grounds.

\t\t\t\t\t Represents the Zoo in AZA managed animal programs and SAFE programs as designated.

\t\t\t\t\t Regularly interprets and applies a wide variety of laws and regulations to administer and supervise the animal collections, facilities, and personnel.

\t\t\t\t\t Participates in and, when appropriate, leads emergency response efforts involving animals, staff, or public safety.

\t\t\t\t\t Assists the Director of Animals with risk management and mitigation duties and performs other duties assigned

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Skills, Abilities, and Knowledge

\t\t\t\t\t Knowledge and experience in the husbandry and propagation of animals in human care.

\t\t\t\t\t Strong understanding of management principles and the ability to build and maintain effective working relationships within a collective bargaining unit environment

\t\t\t\t\t Knowledge of USDA Animal Welfare Act regulations and AZA standards.

\t\t\t\t\t Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to use good judgment and tact.

\t\t\t\t\t Knowledge of operant conditioning, enrichment, and evidence-based animal welfare.

\t\t\t\t\t Ability to conduct research and publish popular and technical scientific articles.

\t\t\t\t\t Excellent communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with the public and act as the spokesperson

\t\t\t\t\t Advanced knowledge of the theory or practical application of biology, zoology, or a related natural science discipline.

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Education and Experience

\t\t\t\t\t Bachelor's degree in Zoology, Life Sciences, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

\t\t\t\t\t A minimum of five (5) years of experience as an Animal Curator in an accredited zoological facility preferred.

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\t\t\t\t\tAdditional Requirements

\t\t\t\t\t Availability to work weekends, holidays, and on-call shifts as required.

\t\t\t\t\t Must possess a valid driver's license and be able to operate zoo vehicles safely on and off zoo grounds.

\t\t\t\t\t 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.

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\t\t\t\t\tWork Environment and Physical Requirements

\t\t\t\t\t Work is performed primarily indoors but requires frequent outdoor inspections, supervision, and some labor on the Zoo grounds.

\t\t\t\t\t Must be able to lift 50 pounds and walk or stand for extended periods.

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Salary

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$68,000/year

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How to Apply

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Submit an application, resume, and cover letter through the City of Evansville Employment Opportunities site for "Animal Curator": https://cityofevansvillein.munisselfservice.com/ess/EmploymentOpportunities/JobDetail.aspx?req=1&sreq=5&form=COE&desc=ANIMAL%20CURATOR

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Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Garden

1545 Mesker Park Dr.

Evansville, IN 47715-7071

Phone: 812-435-6143

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