Lead Primate Care & Welfare Curator

Indianapolis Zoo; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Indianapolis Zoo is seeking a Curator of Primates to lead care, management, and long-term planning for the primate collection. You will provide direction to animal care staff and be accountable for welfare, husbandry, and collection health.

The role collaborates with veterinary services, conservation, and other Zoo teams to advance species-appropriate care, population management, and the Zoo's mission to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biology or a related field from an accredited college or university
• Minimum of 10 years of direct or related experience in a zoo or similar professional setting, including at least four years of personnel management
• Experience working with primates (chimpanzees, orangutans, gibbons, baboons, tamarins) preferred
• Demonstrated leadership, supervisory, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to make sound decisions, manage priorities, and lead teams in a dynamic animal care environment
• Strong organizational skills and cross-department collaboration
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and outdoors

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership, supervision, and professional development for Assistant Curators and animal care staff, establishing clear expectations and promoting accountability
• Maintain direct accountability for health, welfare, behavioral management, and husbandry standards of the primate collection
• Oversee introductions, social group management, breeding recommendations, transfers, and collection planning in collaboration with partners
• Develop, evaluate, and improve animal care practices, enrichment, training, and welfare assessment procedures
• Collaborate with veterinary services on health, preventive care, treatment plans, and welfare assessments
• Establish departmental goals, manage operating plans and budgets, and identify staffing, equipment, and facility priorities
• Ensure compliance with regulations, policies, and documentation requirements

Job description

Indianapolis Zoo is seeking a Curator of Primates to lead care, management, and long-term planning for the primate collection. You will provide direction to animal care staff and be accountable for welfare, husbandry, and collection health.

The role collaborates with veterinary services, conservation, and other Zoo teams to advance species-appropriate care, population management, and the Zoo's mission to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world.