Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

The Indianapolis Zoo is a national leader of animal conservation and is an AZA accredited institution. We're located on a 64-acre campus in the heart of vibrant downtown Indianapolis, and a top tourist destination in the Midwest. In addition to our animal exhibits, gardens, and aquarium, we support local and international animal conservation efforts. The Indianapolis Zoo is a private, 501(c)(3) organization. Our employees and volunteers are committed to supporting the Zoo's mission to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world. If you are an experienced animal care professional, look no further- your next opportunity is at the Indianapolis Zoo! We are on the prowl for a Curator of Plains and Forests !

The Curator of Plains and Forests is a critical leadership position within the Life Sciences Department of the Zoo and requires bachelor's degree in biology or related field from an accredited college or university. Supervisory/ management experience is required. The successful candidate must have the ability to work cohesively with a large team and flexibility to work differing shifts such as overtime, overnights, weekends, and holidays. This is a full-time position that will work at least 40 hours per week. Some travel is expected and will require candidates to be at least 18 years old and have a valid Indiana driver's license with a record insurable by the Zoo's insurance (or the ability to obtain one within thirty (30) days of hire date).

Under the supervision of the General Curator, the Curator of Plains and Forests will oversee the selection, acquisition, husbandry, training, and welfare of the Zoo's collections. This position requires planning and directing exhibit modifications, submitting quarantine arrival forms and, if needed, organizing and implementing quarantine procedures for animals, overseeing and directing animal introductions and seasonal animal moves, and using behavioral enrichment techniques to modify/ enrich animals within the biome. The successful candidate must have extensive knowledge of the hazards of working with a variety of species, as well as knowledge of animal diseases, methods of preventing the spread of contagious disease, and principles of biology and zoology. This position requires superb critical thinking skills, decisive and sound judgment with the ability to work with minimal supervision. Must be able to work in a stressful environment and take appropriate action.

Position Requirements and Experience include but are not limited to:

*NOTE--there are strenuous physical requirements to this position.

• Minimum of a bachelor's degree in biology, zoology, or related life sciences field.
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in husbandry, training, and exhibit design.
• Minimum of three (3) years of supervisory experience in animal care or training.
• Intermediate user of Microsoft Word, Microsoft Access (Keeper Daily Report, Proposed Animal Transactions and Animal Husbandry Protocols), Excel, Power Point, and Outlook.
• Has day to day accountability and responsibility for the proper care of the animals and/or plants in their assigned area. This includes leadership of subordinates as well as personal performance.
• Assist in efforts to redesign and improve animal care and welfare standards.
• Develops, recommends, reviews, updates and has the authority to implement approved Husbandry Protocols, Behavioral Enrichment and Animal Training Programs as directed by the General Curator.
• Proactive in the decision-making process involving animal health. Has direct responsibility and accountability to ensure implementation of day-to-day health related treatments following veterinarians' instructions. Coordinates and schedules procedures with the veterinarians and area staff. Participates in monthly veterinary rounds.
• Implements dietary programs.
• Supports the General Curator with follow up to injury and accident prevention.
• Implements counter measures to help mitigate future injuries and accidents.
• Trains, coaches, mentors, and evaluates area staff. Has responsibility for creating and conducting performance reviews for all full time and part time direct reports. Applies progressive discipline when appropriate.
• Has direct responsibility and accountability for coordinating arrival and departure details in movement of animals in concert with appropriate parties following all applicable IZS policies and/or procedures under the direction of the General Curator.
• Assists in the selection of species, as well as accessioning and de-accessioning of specimens as directed by the General Curator.
• Exposure to work indoors and outdoors, under all environmental conditions, which include inclement weather, cold and hot temperatures, and humidity.
• Exceptional visual acuity is required.
• 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.
• Ability to detect, assess, identify, and observe surroundings to make sound judgments, along with the ability to communicate verbally, comprehend and decipher information accurately, using a two-way radio and telephone.
• Valid driver's license and driving record insurable by the Zoo's insurance.

To apply :

• Interested candidates must complete an online application on the Indianapolis Zoo's website.
• Interested candidates must include a resume, cover letter, and salary requirements to be considered.

Employment at the Indianapolis Zoo is contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment testing including a background check, motor vehicle check (if applicable) and a drug test.

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