Avian Care Leader Assistant/Associate Curator

Akron Zoo; Akron, Northern (OH, KY); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Akron Zoo seeks an Assistant/Associate Curator for the Avian Team to lead and oversee the care, welfare, and exhibit of the bird collection. You will supervise zookeepers, coordinate with veterinarians, and ensure AZA and USDA standards are followed.

You will collaborate with Education to create on-ground programs, manage training, documentation, and capital projects while fostering staff growth and strong stakeholder relationships.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Sciences or an Associate’s Degree with substantial AZA zoo experience.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience at an AZA facility in an animal care position.
• Previous supervisory experience desirable.
• Knowledge of animal behavior, safety, and welfare.
• Manage staffing and performance of 5-10 direct reports.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience with avian incubation and hand rearing.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and some holidays.
• Ability to build collaborative relationships with diverse groups.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and direction to the Animal Care Department staff.
• Manage a large staff including hiring, training, evaluation and recognition.
• Ensure compliance with AZA standards and institutional policies.
• Provide resources to support the animal care team.
• Coordinate with Veterinarians on health and welfare concerns.
• Collaborate with Education to deliver on-grounds programming.
• Review documentation and ensure USDA and AZA standards compliance.
• Complete animal transfer documentation and assist in moves.
• Inspect habitats and plan renovations; submit capital requests.
• Oversee required training including safety, OSHA, and welfare.

Skills

Supervisory experience

Leadership

Communication skills

Staff training

Organizational skills

Animal behavior knowledge

Team collaboration

Flexible scheduling

Cross-functional teamwork

Safety and welfare knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Sciences

Associate’s Degree with AZA experience

Job description

The Akron Zoo seeks an Assistant/Associate Curator for the Avian Team to lead and oversee the care, welfare, and exhibit of the bird collection. You will supervise zookeepers, coordinate with veterinarians, and ensure AZA and USDA standards are followed.

You will collaborate with Education to create on-ground programs, manage training, documentation, and capital projects while fostering staff growth and strong stakeholder relationships.