The Indianapolis Zoo is a national leader of animal conservation and is an AZA accredited institution. In addition to our animal exhibits, gardens, and aquarium, we support local and international animal conservation efforts. The Zoo is a private, 501(c)(3) organization.
The Indianapolis Zoo is currently seeking a Curator of Ambassador Animals, Birds and Deserts. This role is a critical leadership position within the Life Sciences Department of the Zoo, and requires Bachelor's degree in Biology or a related field from an accredited college or university. This position will lead a team of animal care experts as the Zoo invests over the next several years to expand its collection of ambassador animals and the ways our guests can experience them.
Under the supervision of the General Curator, the Curator will oversee the selection, acquisition, husbandry, training, and welfare of the ambassador animal program, assists in the development and implementation of animal shows, special events, and other unique experiences where Ambassador Animals are used. The position will work directly with the Director of Education, and the Veterinary Department in the use of ambassador animals in interpretive and educational programming.
The successful candidates must have extensive knowledge of the care, feeding, animal behavior and hazards of working with a variety of species, as well as knowledge of animal diseases and methods of preventing the spread of contagious disease, and principles of biology and zoology. Prior experience and extensive knowledge of Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) standards is vital to the role.
Due to job demands, the successful candidate must have the ability to work at least 40 hours a week with flexible schedule, including overnights, weekends, & holidays. Some travel is required. Consequently, a valid Indiana driver's license (or obtain one within thirty (30) days of hire date) is required, as is a driving record that is insurable by the Zoo's insurance provider.
Other responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Biology, Psychology, Zoology, Education or related field.
- A minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in husbandry, training, and exhibit design for ambassador animals.
- A minimum of three (3) years of supervisory experience in animal care or training.
- Strong preference for candidates with at least 3 years of experience working in an AZA-accredited facility.
- Ensures proper care, maintenance and safety of animals and their quarters and facilities.
- Supports recruitment, progressive counseling, discipline, and promotion efforts in consultation with department management and Human Resources.
- Develops, maintains and reviews area budget.
- Assists marketing and development staff in promoting the Zoo's public image and achieving the Zoo's public relations and community service objectives.
- Educator role and animal ambassador handler for media appearances.
- Assists with developing interpretive and guest engagement programming.
- Ensures programming has a consistent message and advances educational initiatives and goals.
- Has the authority and responsibility to act immediately on issues of safety or security as it relates to animals, visitors, and staff.
- Serves as institutions contact within AZA Ambassador Animal SAG. Ensures compliance with AZA accreditation standards.
- Must be able to perform very heavy work exerting at least 100 pounds of force occasionally, and or up to 50 pounds of force frequently.
- Ability to transport and move items, exerting at least 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/ or up to 50 pounds of force frequently.
- Ability to ascend/ descend ladders, steps, and uneven terrain, while maintaining body equilibrium to perform various jobs.
To apply:
- Interested candidates must complete an online Zoo application.
- Attach a resumé and cover letter to your application to increase your chances.
- Please note, this is a director-level position, college transcripts will be requested, if selected.
