Ectotherm Collection Curator & Care Team Leader

Akron Zoo; Akron, Northern (OH, KY); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

The Akron Zoo seeks an Assistant/Associate Curator to lead the Ectotherm collection, ensuring welfare, handling, and exhibition standards. This role oversees zookeepers, organizes work, and provides leadership for administrative and operational functions of the Ectotherm team.

The position requires a biology degree and 5 years at AZA facility, supervisory experience, and knowledge of animal behavior, safety, and enrichment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Sciences or Associate’s Degree with AZA experience.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience at an AZA facility in an animal care position.
• Previous supervisory experience highly desirable.
• Knowledge of animal behavior, defense mechanisms, compatibility of different animals, zoo safety practices.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and direction to the Animal Care Department staff including managing 5-10 direct reports.
• Ensure compliance with AZA standards and institutional policies and procedures.
• Oversee training, performance evaluations, and professional development.
• Collaborate with veterinarians and animal behavior team on welfare and enrichment.
• Assist in habitat inspection, maintenance coordination, and capital requests.

Skills

Staff management

Animal behavior knowledge

Compliance and safety

Communication skills

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Sciences

Associate’s Degree with AZA experience

Tools

LSS

Job description

The Akron Zoo seeks an Assistant/Associate Curator to lead the Ectotherm collection, ensuring welfare, handling, and exhibition standards. This role oversees zookeepers, organizes work, and provides leadership for administrative and operational functions of the Ectotherm team.

The position requires a biology degree and 5 years at AZA facility, supervisory experience, and knowledge of animal behavior, safety, and enrichment.