• Job Description

  Req#: 4995305
  
  Norfolk, Virginia is America's most authentic and urban waterfront city. Home to the world's largest naval station and the business, arts, and cultural center of Coastal Virginia, Norfolk has been rated a top place to live, work, play, and raise a family by numerous publications. Working for the City of Norfolk is an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of others. With our commitment to competitive pay and a strong retirement package, you can do good for your community and do well for yourself. Join a caring workplace that proudly celebrates uniqueness, authenticity, and a shared commitment to improving the lives of our residents.
  
  The Virginia Zoo, located in Norfolk, Virginia, is home to more than 700 animals representing over 150 species. Founded in 1901 and residing on 53 beautifully landscaped acres, the Virginia Zoo has demonstrated a commitment to saving and protecting the world’s wildlife by inspiring a passion for nature and taking conservation action at home and around the world. The Virginia Zoo is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is recognized as a global leader in education, recreation, science, wildlife conservation, and animal care and welfare. For more than a century, the Zoo has connected adults, families and school children with the natural world and its wildlife.
  
  The Virginia Zoo is seeking a Curator of Americas/Zoo Farm. The Curator serves as the senior leader and supervisor for the Americas/Zoo Farm section of the Virginia Zoo, responsible for the strategic management and welfare of all animals in this diverse collection. This role leads a team of animal care professionals, overseeing husbandry, enrichment, health monitoring, breeding programs, and compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards. The Curator collaborates across departments to advance the Zoo’s mission of conservation, education, and visitor engagement while ensuring a safe, efficient, and positive working environment.
  
  
  Department Hiring Salary Range: $50,624 - $84,621
  Essential functions include but are not limited to:
  • Lead, manage, and develop the Americas/Zoo Farm animal care team, including scheduling, training, mentoring, performance evaluations, and fostering a collaborative, high-performing work culture.

  • Oversee all aspects of animal care and management in the Americas/Zoo Farm section, including species such as American bison, zebu, domestic cows, sheep, pigs, alpaca, saki monkey, and others, ensuring their health, wellbeing, and behavioral needs are met at the highest standards.
  • Develop and implement operational plans, SOPs, enrichment, and training programs that align with USDA regulations, AZA accreditation, and industry best practices.

  • Monitor animal health and behavior regularly, coordinating with veterinary staff and animal services leadership to address concerns and implement treatments or interventions.

  • Serve as a key decision-maker and point of contact during emergency situations, leading safety drills, and managing incident response as Manager on Duty.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams — including education, facilities, marketing, and animal services management — to support exhibit design, guest engagement, and institutional initiatives.

  • Manage section budget allocations in partnership with Animal Services management, forecasting needs for staffing, equipment, and supplies.

  • Participate in AZA animal programs such as SSPs, TAGs, and SAGs, representing the zoo in regional and national animal collection planning efforts.

  • Oversee exhibit and facility maintenance coordination to ensure environments remain safe, functional, and conducive to animal welfare.

  • Communicate clearly and effectively across all levels of the organization, promoting transparency, accountability, and teamwork.

  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  Knowledge is normally acquired through four years of college resulting in a Bachelor's degree or equivalent in biology, zoology, or related field with an emphasis on wildlife and/or zoo animal care.
  
  Three years' experience.
  
  Preferred Education/Experience:
  • Seven years of experience in animal care, with at least three years in a supervisory role at an AZA accredited institution.

  • Any combination of experience, education and training which provides the equivalent scope of knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the essential job duties.

  • Proven leadership skills with experience in managing and developing teams in a dynamic environment.

  • Strong knowledge of animal behavior, training methods, and operant conditioning.

  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with multiple departments and external partners
  • Experience with AZA accreditation processes and emergency management.

  • Strong communication and public programming skills.

  • Ability to innovate and implement improvements in animal wellbeing and operational efficiency.
  
  Work Location: 3500 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23504
  
  Work Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 7:00AM – 4:00PM
  

• About the company

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