Job Description

Position Overview:

The Wildlife Curator at Layton Aquarium and Wildlife Encounters plays a pivotal role in overseeing the care, welfare, and management of the aquarium's animal collection, including terrestrial and semi-aquatic species. This leadership position ensures that all animals receive the highest standard of care, while exhibits and programs promote conservation, education, and engagement. The Wildlife Curator will work closely with animal care staff, veterinary teams, and animal ambassadors to align animal management practices with the institution’s mission of wildlife conservation and public education. 

Key Responsibilities:

Animal Care & Management:

• Oversee the care, feeding, and enrichment plans for a diverse collection of terrestrial and aquatic wildlife. 
• Collaborate with veterinary staff to ensure comprehensive health programs, including preventative care, treatment plans, and emergency responses. 
• Ensure habitats are safe, stimulating, and replicative of natural environments and parameters, maintaining the physical and psychological well-being of all animals. 
• Conduct regular reviews of animal welfare standards, identifying and addressing areas for improvement. 

Exhibit Oversight & Development:

• Work with the environmental quality staff, facilities teams, animal ambassadors, and national husbandry teams to develop and maintain exhibits that are engaging, educational, and aligned with conservation messaging. 
• Provide expertise on exhibit planning, species selection, and habitat design to promote animal welfare and public engagement. 
• Monitor exhibit conditions, ensuring optimal safety, cleanliness, and functionality. 

Regulatory Compliance:

• Ensure all wildlife care, handling, and exhibition practices comply with local, national, and international regulations, including but not limited to USDA, Fish and Wildlife, CITES, and other relevant wildlife conservation laws. 
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of applicable regulations and standards for wildlife management, ensuring that the facility is always in compliance with animal welfare and conservation policies. 
• Collaborate with veterinary and national husbandry teams to ensure that all animal care procedures and conservation efforts meet or exceed regulatory requirements. 
• Oversee the completion of necessary documentation and permits for animal transportation, acquisition, and exportation, adhering to governmental and industry guidelines. 
• Ensure that all staff members are trained and adhere to regulatory protocols, particularly regarding animal safety, health, and welfare. 
• Monitor the implementation and adherence to biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of diseases, ensuring the safety of both animals and visitors. 
• Conduct periodic audits and inspections of animal exhibits, habitats, and facilities to ensure regulatory standards are consistently met and that corrective actions are taken if necessary. 

Leadership & Staff Management:

• Supervise and mentor a team of animal care professionals.
• Provide training and professional development opportunities for staff, fostering a culture of continuous learning and excellence in animal care. 
• Oversee staff scheduling, performance evaluations, and recruitment efforts. 

Conservation & Education:

• Develop and participate in conservation initiatives, fostering partnerships with external organizations and institutions. 
• Advocate for and implement practices that contribute to global species conservation efforts. 
• Collaborate with the animal ambassador team to create programs that raise awareness of wildlife conservation and inspire action among visitors. 

Operational & Financial Management:

• Manage budgets related to animal care, exhibit maintenance, and conservation programs, ensuring cost-effective operations. 
• Oversee the procurement of equipment, supplies, and specimens, adhering to ethical and sustainable practices. 
• Ensure compliance with all local, national, and international regulations related to wildlife care and management. 

Public Engagement & Education:

• Assist in developing interpretive materials, presentations, and interactive experiences that engage visitors and promote the zoo/aquarium’s mission. 
• Represent the institution at public events and conferences acting as a spokesperson for animal welfare and conservation. 

Qualifications:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Zoology, Biology, Animal Science, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred). 

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a zoo, aquarium, or wildlife facility, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or leadership role. 
• Proven expertise in the care and management of diverse species, including both terrestrial and aquatic animals. 
• Experience in exhibit design, conservation programs, or public education preferred. 

Skills & Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of animal behavior, welfare, and husbandry practices. 
• Leadership and team management skills with a collaborative and solutions-oriented mindset. 
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills. 
• Proficiency in life support systems for aquatic species, habitat design, and animal training techniques. 
• Commitment to conservation and sustainability principles. 

Certifications:

• Professional certifications in animal care or life support systems (e.g., AZA, ZAA, AALSO) are a plus. 

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and environments. 
• Comfortable lifting up to 50 pounds and performing tasks that require bending, crouching, or prolonged standing. 
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends, evenings, and holidays. 

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