Senior Curator, Animal Care & Welfare

Connecticut Zoological Society; Bridgeport (CT); On-site; USD 65,000 - 79,000; Full time

Job summary

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is seeking an experienced General Curator to lead daily animal care operations and drive exceptional welfare. You will supervise Senior Keepers, Keepers, and seasonal staff, coordinate priorities, and ensure compliance with AZA standards, USDA requirements, and safety protocols.

The role emphasizes staff development, collaboration with veterinary and facilities teams, and a commitment to conservation and leadership excellence.

Qualifications

• Seven years of progressive professional animal care experience in a zoo, aquarium, wildlife, conservation setting.
• Three+ years in supervisory or lead roles overseeing animal care staff.
• Expertise in husbandry, enrichment, behavioral management, welfare assessment, staff training, and records.
• Strong knowledge of AZA standards, USDA requirements, and animal care safety practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily animal care operations, including feeding, habitat cleanliness, observation, enrichment, training, and behavioral support.
• Oversee husbandry practices to align with AZA standards and USDA requirements.
• Identify and address animal health, behavior, nutrition, welfare, and habitat concerns.
• Develop and evaluate husbandry procedures, enrichment plans, training, and welfare assessments.
• Directly supervise Senior Keepers, Keepers, and seasonal or intern staff; coordinate workloads with leadership.
• Coach staff as area leads and provide training for species-specific skills.
• Collaborate with HR on performance management, recognition, and corrective action.
• Foster a culture of communication, professionalism, accountability, and safety.

Skills

Staff supervision

Animal care

Leadership

Communication

Documentation

Problem-solving

Training

Animal records

Safety practices

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Zoology/ Biology/ Animal Science/ Wildlife Management/ Conservation

Advanced degree or additional training in animal welfare or zoo management

Job description

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is seeking an experienced General Curator to lead daily animal care operations and drive exceptional welfare. You will supervise Senior Keepers, Keepers, and seasonal staff, coordinate priorities, and ensure compliance with AZA standards, USDA requirements, and safety protocols.

The role emphasizes staff development, collaboration with veterinary and facilities teams, and a commitment to conservation and leadership excellence.