This position oversees the zoo’s extensive large cat and ambassador animal collections as well as animals from other taxa and exercises considerable authority and direct responsibility in the overall management and direction of the animal care staff, animal collection, and animal exhibits in a manner which continues the Zoo’s leadership on a national level. The Wildlife Curator will ensure that the goals and objectives established by Nemacolin in support of its mission are met. Responsibilities include management of the resorts collection of animals, animal acquisitions and intakes, personnel hiring, training and evaluation, animal husbandry, health and conservation programs, professional networking, participation in national zoo associations endeavors, budget development and management, and coordination with other zoological facilities.

The Wildlife Curator must have excellent communication skills, organizational ability and working knowledge of computer systems. This position assists the Director of Animal Life in creating employee scheduling, managing inventory and supplies, promoting and enforcing policies and procedures, manages support functions and departments of the Wildlife operation, including but not limited to: the equestrian center, sled dog kennels, and in areas of husbandry, health and habitat. This individual must observe and maintain knowledge of new policies, programs, and equipment in the company protocol. The Wildlife Curator must be able to act in a leadership capacity on all fronts, when Director is not present, while consulting and informing the Director of Animal Life for optimal clarity for staff and clients. The individual in this role must possess leadership qualities, a pleasant personality, neat appearance and enjoy working with the public and wildlife.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

(The following statements are intended as general illustrations of the work in this job class and are not all-inclusive for this position.)

• Deliver internal and external guest service the Nemacolin way. Goes above and beyond – whether for an associate or guest.
• Responsible for actively building and retaining guest relations and acts as a mentor to other employees and coworkers to provide superior guest service.
• Ensures Standard Operating Procedures are adhered to and cohesive.
• Implements company guidelines, manuals and service protocols.
• Creates an inviting environment by combining both visual and service atmosphere which conveys the right message and services to guests.
• Responsible for supporting the Director of Animal Life in the overall performance of the company and ensuring operating objectives and profit remain on target.
• Prioritizes conflicting needs; handles matters expeditiously, proactively, and follows-through on projects to successful completion – often with deadline pressures.
• Positively addresses and resolves guest concerns in a timely manner and communicates any problems/issues to Director of Animal Life.
• Works with the Director of Animal Life to develop strategies to capitalize on opportunities – both short and long-term.
• Ability to use all required office equipment in an effective and efficient manner.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to multi-task in high-pressure situations.
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with external contacts and all levels of associates.
• Maintains animal collection plan and transactions;
• Ensures that all the guidelines of animal husbandry are met;
• Develops enrichment and behavior management for the collection;
• Prepares and monitors budgets and collection planning;
• Develops goals and projects for the department;
• Completes annual performance reviews for all staff in a timely manner;
• Develops and coordinates safety efforts within the department;
• Communicates nationally and internationally on animal transactions, animal transports, animal management, conservation, and Zoo related issues;
• Participates in Zoo’s emergency response teams as needed;
• This position is an integral part of the Zoo’s Management Team and strong knowledge of and experience in team participatory skills are required.
• Performs all other duties as assigned and directed.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

Completion of a Bachelor’s Degree in Zoology, Animal Science, Biology, Ecology or related field from an accredited college or university, plus minimum of five years of previous supervisory experience at a professional zoological facility in a management capacity; or equivalent combination of education and experience in lieu of a degree.

SKILLS AND APTITUDES:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to manipulate, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk and hear; and sit for prolonged periods of time. The employee may be required to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to weather conditions.

This job description cannot possibly include a complete comprehensive listing of all the activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required by the organization and/or members of management. It reflects management’s assignment of essential functions, but it does not prescribe or restrict the additional tasks that may be required.