Senior Curator, Ectotherms & Animal Care Leadership

Akron Zoo; Akron (OH); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Akron Zoo seeks an Assistant/Associate Curator to lead the Ectotherm and support the Carnivore teams. You will supervise zookeepers, ensure welfare, and align operations with AZA standards and USDA guidelines. You’ll coordinate with veterinary and behavior teams and drive educational programming with the Education Department.

The role requires strong leadership, animal care expertise, and the ability to manage diverse staff while maintaining safety, accuracy, and records across facilities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Sciences (biology, zoology or life science) or an AZA-accredited zoo equivalent.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience at an AZA facility in an animal care position.
• Previous supervisory experience is highly desirable.
• Extensive knowledge of animal behavior, defense mechanisms, species compatibility, zoo safety practices and toxic plants to animals.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and direction to the Animal Care Department staff including hiring, training, evaluation, recognition, professional development and promotions.
• Ensure compliance with AZA standards, institutional policies and procedures.
• Oversee resources to support the animal care team and ensure CBA compliance.
• Coordinate animal transfers and moves between zoological institutions; review documentation.
• Regularly inspect habitats for cleanliness and safety; request capital improvements as needed.
• Oversee training for staff: zoo safety, OSHA, capture and restraint, welfare reporting, medication administration and zoonosis.
• Collaborate with Education to deliver on-ground programming (Rise and Shine, Keeper Talks).
• Participate in breeding programs including research, documentation, analysis and staff training.
• Develop cross-functional relationships and lead teams to meet core values and goals.

Skills

Leadership

Staff supervision

Communication

Animal welfare knowledge

Problem solving

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Sciences

Associate’s Degree with AZA experience

Job description

Akron Zoo seeks an Assistant/Associate Curator to lead the Ectotherm and support the Carnivore teams. You will supervise zookeepers, ensure welfare, and align operations with AZA standards and USDA guidelines. You’ll coordinate with veterinary and behavior teams and drive educational programming with the Education Department.

The role requires strong leadership, animal care expertise, and the ability to manage diverse staff while maintaining safety, accuracy, and records across facilities.