Assistant Curator of Plains & Forests

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 an Assistant Curator of Plains & Forests!

• The Assistant Curator of Plains & Forests is a critical management 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 strongly preferred.
• 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).
• This position requires a minimum of four (4) years of experience with or knowledge of similar, related work, with a minimum of two (2) years practical zoo experience, preferably AZA accredited zoo experience.

Position Requirements and Experience include but are not limited to:

• NOTE--there are strenuous physical requirements to this position.
• Must have in-depth knowledge and prior professional work experience with African and/ or exotic hoof stock, large carnivores and macropods.
• Must be temperamentally suited to working with animals and have good observational skills.
• Must have proven decision making and problem-solving skills.
• Must be team oriented with good interpersonal and communication skills.
• Intermediate user of Performance Impact, Outlook, Excel and Word.
• Supervises area staff (full-time, part-time, and seasonal), volunteers, and interns assigned to the area. 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.
• Has day to day accountability and responsibility for the proper care of the animals and/or plants in their assigned area. This includes management of subordinates as well as personal performance.
• Assist in efforts to redesign and improve animal care and welfare standards.
• Assists in the selection of species, as well as accessioning and de-accessioning of specimens as directed by the Curator of the area.
• 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. .
• 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.

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.

Perks

• Work for the wildest employer in Indianapolis!
• Some perks include: Medical (Health Savings Account with employer contribution included), Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability paid through the Zoo for eligible employees; 403(b) Retirement Plan, generous Paid Time Off (PTO), Immediate Paid Holidays, complimentary Zoo Membership, Reciprocal Benefits to other local institutions, and many, many more!!!

Salary

• Negotiable