San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a nonprofit international conservation leader, committed to inspiring a passion for nature and creating a world where all life thrives. Empowering people from around the globe to support our mission to conserve wildlife through innovation and partnerships, we support cutting-edge conservation, and bring the stories of our work back to our two world-famous front doors — the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park — giving millions of guests, in person and virtually, the opportunity to experience conservation in action. The deep and extensive knowledge gained from more than a century of experience in wildlife care, health, veterinary services, nutrition and conservation makes us invaluable in the global effort to save species. Our team members play a crucial role in driving our conservation efforts forward and bringing us closer to a world where all life thrives.
HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION
The Curator of Herpetology and Ichthyology leads and inspires their team as they look after the wildlife in their care each day. Partnership and engagement on long term strategy that works toward sustainable populations with the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and other AZA facilities is integral for the long-term success of species worldwide. The Curator of Herpetology and Ichthyology is responsible for strategic development, proper management and care of the reptile, amphibian and fish collections at the Zoo, SDZ Safari Park and the Beckman Center. This position reports to the Director of Wildlife Care.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
Leads and inspires the Herpetology and Ichthyology team to ensure their engagement. Duties include hiring, training and development and performance management. Partners with wildlife care team, wildlife health team, internal stakeholders, AZA and other organizations on species related tasks and strategies, such as studbooks, TAGs, population planning and conservation projects. Provides complex interpretation of policies and procedures with the wildlife care team, zoo leadership and other stakeholders. Evaluates and partners with key stakeholders to coordinate a population strategy that is in line with the zoo and SDZWA master plan and established policies. Collaborates with architecture and operations team on habitat design always taking into consideration our wildlife's opportunity to thrive and flourish. Ensures SDZWA is compliant with all legal requirements regarding domestic and international movement of wildlife, including partnering with the Safari Park and other agencies on wildlife welfare issues. Exercise fiscal accountability and responsibility for departmental budget. WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR?
JOB EXPERIENCE
7+ years experience in zoo/exotic animal management, exhibit development and personnel supervision And Previous curatorial experience Experience with preparing materials for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals. EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree In biological or natural sciences or a related field Or Equivalent specialized training with herpetology and/or fish SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
Demonstrated ability to lead highly effective teams in a diverse environment Increasing responsibility of captive Herpetology and Ichthyology work Knowledge of current herpetological and fish conservation landscape Knowledge of modern exhibitry and water quality maintenance Knowledge of venomous reptile procedures and emergency protocols Able to operate moderately complex computer software programs Demonstrated ability to prepare and present to large audiences Able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing Able to conduct field study work SOME OF THE PERKS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER
Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park Family Passes Complimentary Tickets Local and In-House Discounts Employee Assistance Program Wellness Program IMPORTANT DETAILS
Location: San Diego, CA Position Type: Salaried Full-Time Exempt Position Salary Range: $104,300 to $115,340 Be an ally for wildlife by joining our team!
At San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, we thrive on celebrating our differences. Diversity is vital for the benefit of our team members, our guests, our community, and our wildlife.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.
If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, please email your request to and provide the job title and location to which you are applying.
As a Federal Contractor, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is required to participate in the E-Verify Program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States.
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a drug free workplace.
