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Associate Curator of Gorilla/Carnivores
Associate Curator of Gorilla/CarnivoresGladys Porter Zoo • Brownsville , TX
Associate Curator of Gorilla / Carnivores

Associate Curator of Gorilla / Carnivores

Gladys Porter Zoo • Brownsville , TX
16 days ago
Job type
  • Full-time
Job description

The ideal candidate will be an experienced primate and feline keeper who will enjoy the challenge of working with a diverse collection of gorillas, tigers, lions, bears, African wild dogs and otters. This is a working leadership position. The successful candidate, with input from the Curator of Behavioral Husbandry, will help develop, participate in, and be held accountable for training and animal wellbeing within the department. Accordingly, a strong background in training is required and experience with great apes is strongly preferred. Must be an excellent communicator with robust interpersonal and managerial skills. This is a great opportunity for someone who is seeking to take the next step in their career by leading a team of husbandry professionals with an exciting and unique grouping of animals.

Experience Required

  • At least six years of primate and / or carnivore care experience
  • A minimum of 2 years supervisory experience
  • Husbandry and management experience with a variety of primates and carnivores
  • Proven ability to develop, train, and teach welfare-based behaviors
  • Comprehensive knowledge of AZA accreditation and USDA regulatory standards.
  • Thorough knowledge of the requirements of the animals in their charge
  • Working understanding of zoonotic diseases and their prevention
  • Well-developed interpersonal skills. Ability to get along with diverse groups. Tactful, mature
  • Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, zoo visitors and general public
  • Willingness and ability to participate in Zoo Emergency Response / Armed Response team
  • Strong oral and written communication skills
  • Proficiency with computer software and programs; proficiency with ZIMS preferred Note : A comparable combination of education, experience or training that would provide the level of knowledge, skills and ability required may qualify some individuals

Further Comments

Responsibilities include :

  • Direct, oversee and participate in the activities of the department to promote and ensure effective and efficient care and welfare of the department's collection
  • Coordinate daily activities of the department through effective communication with the Mammal Curator, Curator of Wellbeing, Curator of Behavioral Husbandry, as well as other departments / teams when needed
  • Assist in maintaining studbooks and following Species Survival Plan (SSP) recommendations
  • Maintain and review departmental husbandry / enrichment / training logs to ensure accuracy and compliance
  • Inspect barns / exhibits to ensure safety, cleanliness and aesthetics of animal areas
  • Work beside and supervise department personnel : hire, train, schedule, and conduct performance reviews
  • Identify and leverage existing staff talent
  • Assist Mammals Curator in staff recruitment
  • Develop and drive a continuous improvement plan for the department as well as each staff member, focusing on enhancing team skill set and productivity
  • Ensure staff is given ample constructive feedback
  • Cultivate and maintain a positive working environment. Effectively interact and communicate with senior staff, employees, volunteers, and various external groups
  • Work with fellow associate curators and their respective teams to develop and implement dynamic training projects and programs that serve to enhance animal welfare
  • Provide supervisory coverage of other areas, as needed
  • Work with various Taxon Advisory Groups (TAGs), in partnership with, and direction by, Senior Staff
  • Represent the zoo, on an occasional basis, to external donors, community, scientific, and government groups
  • Substitute for Mammal Curator during temporary absences by carrying out specified duties
  • Perform related duties, as required
  • Work special events, evenings, weekends or holidays, as necessary and assigned
  • Respond to calls / texts outside of regular work schedule, as needed

    • Perks

    100% employer-paid health and life insurance; Paid time off : vacation, holidays and sick leave; Friendly co-workers . . . join our family!; Zoo-friendly community; No traffic jams on the freeways; extremely low cost-of-living ; and 30 minutes away from South Padre Island's beautiful beaches.

    Salary

    Commensurate with experience

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    Curator • Brownsville , TX