Lead Animal Care Curator & Welfare Leader

Beardsley Zoo; Bridgeport (CT); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport, CT seeks a General Curator to lead daily animal care, welfare programs, and a team of Senior Keepers and Keepers. You will oversee husbandry, enrichment, health coordination, and collection support, while promoting conservation and a culture of safety.

Reporting to the Director of Animal Care & Facilities, you will supervise staff, develop training, and partner with veterinary and facilities teams to ensure excellence in animal welfare and regulatory compliance

Qualifications

• At least seven years of progressive professional animal care experience.
• At least three years of supervisory or lead experience overseeing animal care staff.
• Demonstrated expertise in husbandry, enrichment, behavioral management, welfare assessment, staff training, animal records, and regulatory compliance.
• Strong knowledge of AZA standards, USDA requirements, and animal care safety practices.
• Effective leadership, coaching, communication, documentation, organization, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required job‑related certifications, permits, and training.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily animal care and welfare, ensuring alignment with AZA standards and USDA requirements.
• Directly supervise Senior Keepers, Keepers, and seasonal staff; coordinate daily priorities and staffing.
• Coordinate with veterinary staff on preventive care, treatments, and health monitoring.
• Maintain accurate animal records, behavioral observations, breeding notes, and related documentation.
• Support safety, emergency planning, and operational improvements across the zoo.

Job description

Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport, CT seeks a General Curator to lead daily animal care, welfare programs, and a team of Senior Keepers and Keepers. You will oversee husbandry, enrichment, health coordination, and collection support, while promoting conservation and a culture of safety.

Reporting to the Director of Animal Care & Facilities, you will supervise staff, develop training, and partner with veterinary and facilities teams to ensure excellence in animal welfare and regulatory compliance