Carnivore Care Director

Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden; Oklahoma City (OK); On-site; USD 61,000 - 71,000; Full time

Job summary

Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden in Oklahoma City, OK seeks an experienced Curator of Carnivores to guide its carnivore team and advance care, welfare, and management of its assigned species. Reporting to the Chief Animal Program Officer, this role combines evidence-based animal care with staff leadership, budgeting, and cross-department collaboration.

The incumbent will lead a team of 13, oversee welfare and enrichment, coordinate operations, and contribute to long-term planning and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in animal science or related field.
• Five years of paid experience with relevant taxa at a AZA-accredited facility, including at least two years in supervisory roles.
• Knowledge of evidence-based animal welfare, husbandry, enrichment, and population management.
• Ability to coach staff, communicate expectations, and guide a team through changing priorities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the carnivore team; supervise 13 direct reports and guide hiring, training, coaching, and performance evaluations.
• Oversee husbandry, behavioral training, enrichment, and welfare monitoring informed by evidence and records.
• Direct daily operations: staffing, resources, documentation, and SOPs to support care and operations.
• Develop and review safety protocols, participate in emergency planning and drills, lead during incidents.
• Contribute to future planning: population management, habitat design, capital improvements, and maintenance priorities.
• Manage budgets for the carnivore program and allocate resources.

Skills

Team leadership

Budgeting

Animal welfare

Husbandry

Communication

Education

Bachelors in animal science

Job description

Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden in Oklahoma City, OK seeks an experienced Curator of Carnivores to guide its carnivore team and advance care, welfare, and management of its assigned species. Reporting to the Chief Animal Program Officer, this role combines evidence-based animal care with staff leadership, budgeting, and cross-department collaboration.

The incumbent will lead a team of 13, oversee welfare and enrichment, coordinate operations, and contribute to long-term planning and