Associate Curator of Primates

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Gladys Porter Zoo

Associate Curator of Primates

Gladys Porter Zoo is seeking an experienced and motivated Associate Curator of Primates to support the leadership and daily operations of a diverse primate collection, including great apes. This is a working supervisory role that blends hands-on animal care with team leadership, program coordination, and departmental development.

The Associate Curator of Primates will partner closely with the Curator of Mammals and institutional leadership to ensure high standards of animal welfare, staff performance, and operational consistency. This position is ideal for a primate professional ready to take the next step in leadership-someone who can balance direct animal care with staff supervision, program execution, and a commitment to continuous improvement aligned with AZA standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Support and help lead the daily operations of the primate department
• Coordinate and participate in daily animal care activities with strong communication across teams
• Supervise, schedule, train, and evaluate staff; contribute to hiring and performance management
• Develop staff through feedback and structured growth opportunities
• Implement departmental continuous improvement plans
• Maintain accurate records; assist with SSPs and studbooks
• Collaborate on training and enrichment programs
• Support safety protocol development and implementation
• Engage with guests and support media and education efforts
• Represent the Zoo in AZA TAGs and initiatives
• Provide leadership coverage and emergency response support
• Support special events and on-call responsibilities

Minimum Qualifications

• 8+ years professional primate care experience
• Supervisory or team leadership experience
• Experience with diverse primates including great apes
• Strong knowledge of operant conditioning, enrichment, and behavioral husbandry
• Familiarity with AZA and USDA standards and best practices
• Strong communication and leadership skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in AZA-accredited institutions
• Program development and staff training experience
• Participation in TAGs, SSPs, or conservation initiatives

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to balance animal care with leadership responsibilities
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
• Ability to foster a positive, accountable team culture
• Professional interaction with staff and public
• Knowledge of zoonotic disease prevention

Working Conditions & Requirements

• Flexible schedule including weekends, holidays, extended hours
• Work in varying weather conditions
• Exposure to animal environments
• Ability to walk, stand, and lift 25 lbs
• Must pass background check

About Gladys Porter Zoo

Gladys Porter Zoo is committed to excellence in animal care, conservation, education, and community engagement. As an AZA member, the Zoo maintains the highest standards of animal welfare and inspires conservation action.

Brownsville and the greater Rio Grande Valley offers a tropical climate, cultural opportunities, and proximity to South Padre Island.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary commensurate with experience.

• 100% employer-paid health, vision, dental, life insurance
• Paid time off
• 401(k)
• Supportive team environment

How to Apply

Submit cover letter and resume to:

Kat Thompson-Hawk, General Curator, at kthompson-hawk@gpz.org

Subject line: Associate Curator of Primates

We look forward to hearing from you!

Don't delay! Applications will be reviewed as they are received.

Gladys Porter Zoo

500 E Ringgold St.

Brownsville, TX 78520

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