What are the responsibilities and job description for the General Curator position at Alaska SeaLife Center?
Summary:
The General Curator is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day management of the living collections and wildlife rehabilitation programs at the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC). This role ensures the well-being of all animals, supervises animal care staff, and supports the institution's conservation and research objectives. The General Curator reports directly to the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and plays a critical role in upholding the highest quality of care, wellbeing, and compliance with AZA accreditation standards. Preferred expertise: Strong leadership acumen to guide teams and promote an environment of continuous learning and cross-collaboration. Demonstrated track record of working with research programs, writing successful grants, and developing revenue generating programs.
Education/Training Requirements:
Grade 7
- Bachelor's degree in biology, zoology, marine science, or a related field.
- Minimum of five years of experience in animal care, with at least two years in a supervisory role at a zoo or aquarium.
- Familiarity with AZA accreditation standards and animal welfare regulations.
In addition to the above,
- Advanced degree in relevant fields.
- Field research experience.
- Minimum of 10 years of supervisory and budget management experience.
- Deep knowledge of AZA accreditation, animal welfare regulations, and relevant state and federal animal care laws.
Essential Duties:
1. Living Collections Management: Oversee daily care and management of all animals in the Living Collections, including avian, marine mammal, and aquarium species. Ensure optimum standards for animal health, welfare, and environmental enrichment, in accordance with the requirements of all permitting authorities and accrediting bodies. Grade 8: In collaboration with the COO and CEO, lead the development of a strategic Institutional Collections Plan.
2. Rehabilitation Programs: Oversee daily management of ASLC’s rehabilitation programs for stranded and injured wildlife and collaborates with the Veterinary Sciences team as needed. Ensure the successful release of rehabilitated animals, where appropriate, and oversees compliance with relevant permits (e.g., USDA, USFWS).
3. Team Supervision and Training: Supervise curatorial and animal care staff, providing guidance, performance evaluations, and ongoing professional development. Ensure staff adherence to protocols and AZA standards of care.
4. Compliance and Documentation: Ensure adherence to all regulatory requirements, including USDA-APHIS and AZA accreditation standards. Maintain accurate records for permits, animal care, and rehabilitation programs.
5. Enrichment and Exhibit Development: Oversees the design and implementation of animal enrichment programs and habitat improvements to ensure optimal animal welfare for both minds, bodies, and flock/school dynamics appropriate for mixed-species and group-based animals. Collaborate with the exhibits team to enhance visitor experiences involving living collections.
6. Animal Transfers and Breeding Programs: Manage and oversee animal acquisition, transfers, and breeding programs in alignment with AZA SAFE programs and other collaborative conservation initiatives.
7. Emergency Response Planning: Participate in the development and execution of emergency and contingency plans related to animal care and welfare, including disaster response and crisis management for the collections. Grade 8: Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of emergency and contingency plans for animal care and welfare, ensuring organizational readiness and effective crisis management for the collections.
8. Public Engagement and Education: Support the Center’s public education programs by providing expert input on animal care practices and accuracy in species science and natural history. Serve as an ambassador for ASLC’s mission in conservation and animal welfare, interacting with visitors, media, and partner organizations.
9. Budgeting and Resource Allocation: With support from the COO, develop and manage departmental budgets to ensure effective use of resources to maintain the highest standards of animal care and welfare. Grade 8: Develop and manage department budget to optimize operational efficiency, manage cost, and drive revenue.
- Strong collaborative leadership.
- Strong knowledge of animal husbandry, welfare, and rehabilitation practices for the range of taxa cared for at ASLC.
- Excellent communication and organizational skills.
- Solution-oriented with a focus on continuous improvement.
- Ability to manage and de-escalate crisis situations promptly and make informed decisions to minimize impact.
- Ability to balance animal care priorities with institutional goals and visitor engagement.
- Growth mindset with a commitment to self and team professional development
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Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums
APPLICATION DEADLINE: OPEN UNTIL FILLED
START DATE: ASAP
PAY RATE: Grade 7: $71,240 - $81,120 Grade 8: $89,440 - $101,920
Full-Time Position with Benefits
Please upload your resume, cover letter and letter of reference when you apply.
Must be able to pass a background check.
Salary : $71,240 - $81,120
