Assistant Zoo Animal Curator

Minimum Qualifications Education and Experience : Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Zoology, Wildlife Biology, or related field and two (2) years of professional exotic animal or aquatic species exhibit work experience.

Licenses and Certificates : Valid Texas Class "C" Driver's License or equivalent from another state by time of appointment. General Purpose Under the direction of the Zoo Animal Curator, assist in the management of animal care and exhibit maintenance and design. Typical Duties Assist in planning, organizing, and coordinating animal management and care. Involves : Oversee, monitor, and ensure that the proper methods of maintaining, acquiring, and disposing of captive animals are utilized. Ensure compliance with wildlife-related laws and regulations. Acquire and maintain wildlife permits. Assist with research, planning, and conducting animal management activities. Inspect, review, and recommend improvements in zoo operations, facilities, and other areas within the zoo. Review, advise, and oversee animal environmental enrichment. Maintain comprehensive records on animals. Respond to requests for information on zoo exhibits and animals, including care, environmental issues, and other information. Involves : Perform research on zoo animals, environmental issues, exhibits, and conservation. Develop comprehensive research papers. Assist in coordinating section activities with other zoo sections, city departments, and state and federal agencies. Participate in decisions concerning animal management including exhibit design, animal acquisition, animal disposition, reproductive programs as well as conservation and education programs. Supervise assigned staff. Involves : Schedule, assign, instruct, guide, and check work. Provide for training and development. Enforce personnel rules and regulations and work behavior standards firmly and impartially. Counsel, motivate, and maintain harmony. Interview applicants and recommend hiring, termination, transfers, discipline, or other employee status changes. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Application of considerable knowledge of exotic animal and aquatic animal care and handling principles and practices.
• Application of considerable knowledge of exotic animal exhibit design and maintenance.
• Application of considerable knowledge of exotic animal restraint, diet, habitats, and common diseases.
• Application of considerable knowledge of environmental factors required to maintain zoo animals.
• Application of considerable knowledge of positive animal enrichment techniques.
• Ability to analyze and identify changes in animal behavior and take corrective action.
• Ability to restrain zoo animals.
• Ability to maintain composure and handle difficult situations with professionalism in a dynamic environment.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely both orally and in writing to prepare reports and present complex information.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, coworkers, officials, contractors, regulatory agencies, and the public.

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