Animal Care - Carnivore Curator

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center; Glen Rose (TX); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose, TX is seeking an Animal Care - Carnivore Curator. The role involves overseeing the care of the carnivore collection, training Animal Care Specialists, and enhancing the organization’s image through public engagement.

Candidates must have a degree in Biology or Zoology, or equivalent experience, along with expertise in managing carnivores. The position requires strong public speaking skills and the ability to work in varied weather conditions. Must be available for after-hours emergencies.

Qualifications

• University Degree or equivalent experience in relevant field.
• Expertise with carnivores and animal management.
• Ability to manage finances and budgets for programs.

Responsibilities

• Oversee care and maintenance of the carnivore collection.
• Train and supervise Animal Care Specialists and interns.
• Develop carnivore programs to generate conservation awareness.

Skills

Expertise with carnivores

Public speaking experience

ZIMS literate

Familiarity with Macintosh and PCs

Competent with Excel and Microsoft Word

Education

University Degree in Biology, Zoology, or related field

5 years’ experience with 2 years of supervisory experience

Job description

Animal Care - Carnivore Curator

Location: Glen Rose, TX

Job Id: 339 | # of Openings: 1

Summary / Purpose of Position

This position is responsible for overseeing the care and maintenance of the carnivore collection, training and supervising daily duties of the Animal Care Specialists – Carnivores and interns, and enhancing Fossil Rim Wildlife Center’s image and visitor experience through public speaking and publications.

Specific / Mandatory Duties

• Provide a healthy, well managed carnivore collection on a daily basis
• Develop/maintain programs consistent with Recovery Programs and SSP/AMP recommendations and needs.
• Develop carnivore programs that generate conservation awareness.
• Oversee all carnivore transfers with input from the Director of Animal Care.
• Secure loan, licensing, permits, contracts and agreements relating to carnivore activities.
• Organize and secure all necessary paperwork and records in accordance with regulatory agencies (AZA, USFWS, etc.).
• Provide professional training opportunities through internships.
• Provide supervision and oversight of Animal Care Staff in the carnivore department.
• Supervise staff/interns for daily care and maintenance of the carnivore collection.
• Selection, scheduling, and supervision of Animal Care Specialists and interns.
• Interface with other zoological and related organizations regarding animal management.
• Assist SSP/AMP Coordinators in planning, securing and coordinating carnivores to be moved into and out of Fossil Rim.
• Submit purchase authorization requests and receipts as needed.
• Assist the Animal Health Department with daily treatments as needed.
• Consult with the Animal Health Department regarding diets, parasite control, and health and management issues.
• Ensure proper record keeping.
• Supervise and/or assist with animal management plans and actions within the carnivore collection.
• Coordinate management activities with other area supervisors and the Director of Animal Care.
• Regular and dependable attendance is required.
• Be available for after‑hours and weekend call‑out in emergencies.
• Able to lift and carry 75 pounds.
• Be able to bend over.
• Ability to spend up to 2/3 of the workday standing/walking.
• Ability to work outside all day in weather ranging from extreme heat (+100 degrees) to extreme cold (below freezing) and in wet conditions.
• Ability to drive and/or operate small maintenance equipment (chainsaw, weed trimmer, mower, hand tools, truck, lawn tractor).
• Ensure compliance with Employee Handbook, Risk Management Plan, Contingency Plan, and all other safety rules & procedures, the company vision, mission and goals.

Secondary Responsibilities

• Assist the Animal Care Department with procedures as needed, consistent with the existing “Team” concept.
• Participate and serve on species or taxon management committees (SSPs, AMPs, TAGs, Cheetah Breeding Center Coalition).
• Develop preliminary budgets and manage carnivore programs within an approved budget; responsible for all carnivore hand‑rearing, diets, and record keeping.
• Interface with Environmental Engagement and Public Relations Departments as needed.
• Assist Support Services with facilities design and maintenance.
• Assist the Director of Animal Care regarding communication with other Fossil Rim Departments, media, and professional contacts.
• Be on emergency call.

Desired Qualities, Experience and Educational Skills

• University Degree in Biology, Zoology, or related field, or 5 years’ experience, with two years of supervisory experience.
• Expertise with carnivores and captive animal management programs.
• ZIMS literate.
• Public speaking experience.
• Familiarity with Macintosh and PCs; competent with Excel and Microsoft Word.

Work Requirements

The position is essential to Fossil Rim throughout the year and during unexpected closures; essential employees scheduled to work must work as scheduled. Typically a 5‑day work week, often requiring flexibility and ability to work weekends and holidays, with irregular scheduling that may exceed 8 hours per day or five days per week.

We are a Non‑Profit organization and an equal employment opportunity employer and will consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other protected classification under federal and state law. Fossil Rim is an “at will” and equal opportunity employer. The company conducts background checks on potential new employees, inclusive of drug and controlled substance testing.