Association Of Zoos & Aquariums
SUMMARY
Under the supervision of the General Curator the Assistant Curator will assist in the care of the CFZBG animal collection and animal care staff. The Assistant Curator will collaborate on all aspects of animal care, all aspects of animal care staff, and animal habitat design and renovations. This individual will serve as a liaison to other Zoo departments and outside organizations. This position reports to the General Curator.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Assist with the supervision of animal enrichment and operant conditioning programs. Liaise as needed, between the the Behavioral Husbandry Coordinator, management, area staff, and other zoo professionals to ensure successful implementation of husbandry, welfare, enrichment, operant conditioning programs, animal transfers, and share information regarding operational or procedural changes in the area and/or the zoo.
Provide supervision, guidance, and leadership to the Senior keepers, and Zookeepers in the Animal Care Department. Foster a culture of growth, provide encouragement, coaching, training, mentoring and professional development.
Supervises department personnel, hires and ensures staff training, collaborates on staff’s annual performance evaluations and documents staff performance throughout the year, and corrective action where needed.
Ensure compliance with zoo policies and assist in development and implementation of department/area policies, procedures, presentations, plans and reports
Assist with the managed breeding and husbandry in compliance with SSP and AZA requirements.
Review daily records for accuracy and assist in department record‑keeping by maintaining daily keeper logs, individual care charts, census forms, enrichment calendars and weekly reports to ensure consistent, professional communications regarding all aspects of the collection's maintenance. Compile reports as needed.
Collaborate with the General Curator and Registrar to monitor animal transactions and coordinates with Animal Care staff to ensure legal compliance with local, state, federal and international laws, government regulations and industry‑specific standards.
Communicates with the Veterinarian staff to ensure optimal health care for the animal residents and assists in examinations.
Collaborate with Senior management and other departments on research and development of habitat designs, construction, renovation, and identify, submit and prioritize work orders and projects in the area. Liaises with stakeholders including Horticulture, Facilities, Security and contractors to plan work and address animal and staff issues. Participates in the Acquisition and Disposition committee.
Participates in AZA and other appropriate professional associations in an effort to develop and set standards for animal management and continually elevate the level of professionalism for the Assistant Curator of Animal Care position.
Partner and communicate with other departments to support integrated initiatives to help institutional goals. Create, train staff and deliver encounters, tours, chats and other opportunities to positively engage guests
Develop and nurture professional relationships with all zoo staff.
Serve as a Zoo Ambassador at all times and adhere to all Central Florida Zoo Policies and Procedures.
Other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
At least 2 years of management experience. Must be able to take lead role in the absence of higher management level supervisor during emergencies; and cope with high stress situations, e.g., the recapture of escaped animals or emergency assistance to guests as directed.
Minimum of 5 years of progressive animal husbandry experience, preferably in an AZA institution, demonstrating knowledge of animal husbandry, enrichment and exhibition for a variety of taxa, including Class I felids, hoofstock, birds and reptiles.
Proven knowledge and application of AZA or similar accrediting standards and USDA requirements. Proven ability to enhance the team’s knowledge and skills to provide professional animal care.
Knowledge of venomous species handling and protocols a plus
Must have the ability and skill to carry out supervisor responsibilities for a team of 20+ and remain in compliance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws.
Knowledge and skills to interview, hire, and train employees; plan, assign, and direct work; appraise performance; reward and discipline employees; address complaints and resolve problems.
Knowledge of the laws regulating animal acquisition, disposition, exhibition, husbandry standards and transportation within the U.S. and abroad is desirable.
Must be familiar with exotic animal permitting procedures.
Possess excellent people and communication skills, both written and verbal.
General knowledge of collection management principles.
Knowledge of AZA cooperative animal management programs, such as studbooks, SSPs, TAGs, etc.
Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and ZIMS.
Ability to manage time effectively.
Ability to multi‑task as well as delegate.
Ability to drive or learn to operate Zoo vehicles.
Must be able to take direction, both verbally and written.
Must be able to sit/stand for long periods of time.
Must have the ability to work flexible hours, including weekdays, weekends, holidays and evenings.
Must provide a negative drug test result.
LANGUAGE ABILITY
Read and understand policy, procedures, manuals, scientific and educational texts, equipment instructions, professional articles, statistical analyses, research documents and business correspondence.
Must be able to speak with and before others with poise and confidence.
Participate in scheduled programs within the Zoo as needed.
Ability to respond to common inquiries, requests or complaints from guests and/or staff in a kind and courteous manner.
Must be able to communicate with guests and staff clearly and effectively.
REASONING ABILITY
Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions to find effective solutions and alternatives.
Flexibility and adaptability in dealing with high levels of responsibility, empathy, frustration and patience when it comes to the care of animals with basic needs, changes of schedule or responsibilities.
Resilience and ability to prioritize competing Tasks and work under pressure in a fast‑paced environment.
Ability to maintain Positive and productive relationships with others, even when differing perspectives present potential for conflict. Ability to maintain composure and handle difficult situations with professionalism.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
Valid Florida driver’s license. If Central Florida Zoo’s insurance carrier deems the holder of this position to be uninsurable, termination may result.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, stand for long periods of time and drive Zoo vehicles.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear.
Must be able to sit for long periods of time.
The employee is frequently required to use hands and fingers to handle, reach or feel and manipulate objects or controls.
The employee is frequently required to sit, walk distances over uneven terrain, climb, balance, stoop, bend, kneel, crouch and stand for long periods of time.
Several job functions of this position are performed in confined areas.
WORK ENVIRONMENT A large percentage of the job functions are performed in an office environment, however there is a significant percentage of duties performed outdoors in the Various Weather Conditions found in Central Florida. These conditions range from rain, wind, cool to cold weather and extreme heat and humidity. The Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Exposure to infectious diseases from daily contact with exotic and domestic animals including bacterial, fungal, parasitic and viral pathogens. Work around a variety of animal species with potential for physical harm from bites, kicks, heavy lifting, or surgical instruments. Occasionally, the Assistant Curator is required to attend Zoo events and workshops.
The Central Florida Zoological Society is an equal opportunity employer and makes decisions related to compensation and all terms, conditions or privileges of employment on the basis of merit. Company policy prohibits unlawful discrimination based on race, color, creed, sex (including pregnancy), gender orientation, religion, marital status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic characteristic, military status or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state, or local laws. All such discrimination is unlawful and prohibited by the CFZS.
EXPERIENCE REQUIRED Bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology, records management or other related field or equivalent experience. 5 years related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience. Knowledge of and experience with the Zoo Information Management System (ZIMS) is strongly preferred.
HOW TO APPLY Please send your cover letter and resume to HR@centralfloridazoo.org by close of business October 31, 2025.
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ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Assist with the supervision of animal enrichment and operant conditioning programs. Liaise as needed, between the the Behavioral Husbandry Coordinator, management, area staff, and other zoo professionals to ensure successful implementation of husbandry, welfare, enrichment, operant conditioning programs, animal transfers, and share information regarding operational or procedural changes in the area and/or the zoo.
Provide supervision, guidance, and leadership to the Senior keepers, and Zookeepers in the Animal Care Department. Foster a culture of growth, provide encouragement, coaching, training, mentoring and professional development.
Supervises department personnel, hires and ensures staff training, collaborates on staff’s annual performance evaluations and documents staff performance throughout the year, and corrective action where needed.
Ensure compliance with zoo policies and assist in development and implementation of department/area policies, procedures, presentations, plans and reports
Assist with the managed breeding and husbandry in compliance with SSP and AZA requirements.
Review daily records for accuracy and assist in department record‑keeping by maintaining daily keeper logs, individual care charts, census forms, enrichment calendars and weekly reports to ensure consistent, professional communications regarding all aspects of the collection's maintenance. Compile reports as needed.
Collaborate with the General Curator and Registrar to monitor animal transactions and coordinates with Animal Care staff to ensure legal compliance with local, state, federal and international laws, government regulations and industry‑specific standards.
Communicates with the Veterinarian staff to ensure optimal health care for the animal residents and assists in examinations.
Collaborate with Senior management and other departments on research and development of habitat designs, construction, renovation, and identify, submit and prioritize work orders and projects in the area. Liaises with stakeholders including Horticulture, Facilities, Security and contractors to plan work and address animal and staff issues. Participates in the Acquisition and Disposition committee.
Participates in AZA and other appropriate professional associations in an effort to develop and set standards for animal management and continually elevate the level of professionalism for the Assistant Curator of Animal Care position.
Partner and communicate with other departments to support integrated initiatives to help institutional goals. Create, train staff and deliver encounters, tours, chats and other opportunities to positively engage guests
Develop and nurture professional relationships with all zoo staff.
Serve as a Zoo Ambassador at all times and adhere to all Central Florida Zoo Policies and Procedures.
Other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
At least 2 years of management experience. Must be able to take lead role in the absence of higher management level supervisor during emergencies; and cope with high stress situations, e.g., the recapture of escaped animals or emergency assistance to guests as directed.
Minimum of 5 years of progressive animal husbandry experience, preferably in an AZA institution, demonstrating knowledge of animal husbandry, enrichment and exhibition for a variety of taxa, including Class I felids, hoofstock, birds and reptiles.
Proven knowledge and application of AZA or similar accrediting standards and USDA requirements. Proven ability to enhance the team’s knowledge and skills to provide professional animal care.
Knowledge of venomous species handling and protocols a plus
Must have the ability and skill to carry out supervisor responsibilities for a team of 20+ and remain in compliance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws.
Knowledge and skills to interview, hire, and train employees; plan, assign, and direct work; appraise performance; reward and discipline employees; address complaints and resolve problems.
Knowledge of the laws regulating animal acquisition, disposition, exhibition, husbandry standards and transportation within the U.S. and abroad is desirable.
Must be familiar with exotic animal permitting procedures.
Possess excellent people and communication skills, both written and verbal.
General knowledge of collection management principles.
Knowledge of AZA cooperative animal management programs, such as studbooks, SSPs, TAGs, etc.
Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and ZIMS.
Ability to manage time effectively.
Ability to multi‑task as well as delegate.
Ability to drive or learn to operate Zoo vehicles.
Must be able to take direction, both verbally and written.
Must be able to sit/stand for long periods of time.
Must have the ability to work flexible hours, including weekdays, weekends, holidays and evenings.
Must provide a negative drug test result.
LANGUAGE ABILITY
Read and understand policy, procedures, manuals, scientific and educational texts, equipment instructions, professional articles, statistical analyses, research documents and business correspondence.
Must be able to speak with and before others with poise and confidence.
Participate in scheduled programs within the Zoo as needed.
Ability to respond to common inquiries, requests or complaints from guests and/or staff in a kind and courteous manner.
Must be able to communicate with guests and staff clearly and effectively.
REASONING ABILITY
Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions to find effective solutions and alternatives.
Flexibility and adaptability in dealing with high levels of responsibility, empathy, frustration and patience when it comes to the care of animals with basic needs, changes of schedule or responsibilities.
Resilience and ability to prioritize competing Tasks and work under pressure in a fast‑paced environment.
Ability to maintain Positive and productive relationships with others, even when differing perspectives present potential for conflict. Ability to maintain composure and handle difficult situations with professionalism.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
Valid Florida driver’s license. If Central Florida Zoo’s insurance carrier deems the holder of this position to be uninsurable, termination may result.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, stand for long periods of time and drive Zoo vehicles.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear.
Must be able to sit for long periods of time.
The employee is frequently required to use hands and fingers to handle, reach or feel and manipulate objects or controls.
The employee is frequently required to sit, walk distances over uneven terrain, climb, balance, stoop, bend, kneel, crouch and stand for long periods of time.
Several job functions of this position are performed in confined areas.
WORK ENVIRONMENT A large percentage of the job functions are performed in an office environment, however there is a significant percentage of duties performed outdoors in the Various Weather Conditions found in Central Florida. These conditions range from rain, wind, cool to cold weather and extreme heat and humidity. The Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Exposure to infectious diseases from daily contact with exotic and domestic animals including bacterial, fungal, parasitic and viral pathogens. Work around a variety of animal species with potential for physical harm from bites, kicks, heavy lifting, or surgical instruments. Occasionally, the Assistant Curator is required to attend Zoo events and workshops.
The Central Florida Zoological Society is an equal opportunity employer and makes decisions related to compensation and all terms, conditions or privileges of employment on the basis of merit. Company policy prohibits unlawful discrimination based on race, color, creed, sex (including pregnancy), gender orientation, religion, marital status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic characteristic, military status or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state, or local laws. All such discrimination is unlawful and prohibited by the CFZS.
EXPERIENCE REQUIRED Bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology, records management or other related field or equivalent experience. 5 years related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience. Knowledge of and experience with the Zoo Information Management System (ZIMS) is strongly preferred.
HOW TO APPLY Please send your cover letter and resume to HR@centralfloridazoo.org by close of business October 31, 2025.
#J-18808-Ljbffr