Curator - Mammals - ZOO

Department:  Zoo 

Pay:  $60,070.40 annually  

Work Schedule:   

Sedgwick County offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees that includes health coverages, paid leave, regular compensation reviews, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities.  For more detailed information, please visit our benefits page at SCBenefits.

The Curator of Mammals oversees all aspects of husbandry and well-being for the mammal population within assigned zoological areas. This person is responsible for formulation and implementation of the department population management plan. This person collaborates with other professionals and participates in appropriate programs to ensure the Zoo reaches its goals with regard to population management and conservation. This person advises and has input on animal exhibit design, form and function. This person manages departmental personnel to include supervision, recruitment, retention, training, development, commendation and disciplinary action. This person is responsible for departmental budget development and monitoring. This person is the primary liaison between their areas of responsibility and the veterinary department. This person interacts regularly with other zoo departments and assists them in achieving their goals. This position participates in a mandatory on-call rotation.

Supervise all aspects of animal husbandry, health and well-being

• Establish &/or approve procedures for species husbandry
• Act as the primary authority in husbandry matters.
• Ensure all enrichment, training, and well-being SOP’s are being followed
• Complete daily reviews of animal activity reports
• Maintain knowledge of principles and practices of zookeeping, including diet, housing, exhibition, and breeding
• Attend Curator meeting to report the events that have occurred in areas of responsibility
• Advise and consult regularly with the Zoo veterinary department

Responsible Population Management

• Create and implement the assigned zoological areas’ population management plan
• Advise the registrar as needed in preparing for and conducting animal transports
• Maintain a functional understanding of ZIMS
• Have a thorough understanding of AZA accreditation standards and AZA conservation and science programs
• Communicate with professional colleagues when needed to further the goals of their area of supervision
• Participate in the development of Zoo conservation programming, field work initiatives, and program support. Provide input and direction with regard to Zoo research proposals and participation

Supervision of Zoological Managers and Facility Management

• Train, and mentor mammal Zoological Managers. Assist in resolving job related concerns.
• Participate in evaluating applicants for open positions and in selecting final candidates. Assist with evaluating and selecting final candidates for open zookeeper positions
• Compose reports and other documents clearly, logically, accurately, and professionally
• Develop and monitor annual operating budget for the department
• Interact regularly with zoo maintenance, horticulture, guest services, education, public relations, and development departments, and assist them in achieving their goals
• Inspect facilities for security, safety, and facility maintenance. Report areas of concern to the appropriate department(s)
• Initiate and facilitate on-call personnel for emergency events.
• Participate in an on-call rotation during emergency situations.

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college university in Biology, Zoology, Environmental Resources, Wildlife Management, or a related field. Two years of experience in the care of mammals. One year of experience as a supervisor. Per Sedgwick County policy, this is a driving level position that requires a valid US driver’s license without restrictions and current proof of automobile insurance.

Preferred Qualifications: Five years of experience in the care of mammals. Two years of experience as a supervisor. Master’s Degree in Biology, Zoology, Environmental Resources, Wildlife Management, or a related field.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws. Please find more information under the following link.  Apply for a Job | Sedgwick County, Kansas