Assistant Curator of Animals

JOB DESCRIPTION

Lucky Ladd Farms is an award winning agritourism destination with a growing animal program that includes domesticated and exotic hoofstock, small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and invertebrates. We combine a busy guest facing farm park with a professional animal care operation and are actively working toward ZAA accreditation. We are looking for an experienced Assistant Curator of Animals / Animal Care Manager to help lead our animal program to the next level.

THE OPPORTUNITY

This is a hands-on leadership role for an experienced professional who wants to... Take primary responsibility for day to day animal operations at a growing facility Build and mentor a team of keepers, educators, and seasonal animal encounter staff Lead

USDA / TWRA

compliance and be the point person for ZAA accreditation Shape and implement high standards of welfare, husbandry, training, and guest interaction You will report directly to the Owner & Operations Manager and serve as the top operational leader for all animal care on site. The role is roughly 60% leadership/administration and 40% hands-on work in the field.

YOUR ROLE ON OUR TEAM

Lead the Animal Care Team Supervise up to 10 keepers and ~20 seasonal animal encounter staff Handle hiring, scheduling, onboarding, performance reviews, and coaching Build a positive, accountable, welfare focused team culture Own Daily Animal Operations Oversee husbandry for a mixed collection of domestics and exotics Ensure consistent standards for feeding, cleaning, sanitation, and environmental control Conduct regular rounds to check welfare, safety, and enclosure conditions Drive Compliance & Accreditation Serve as primary point of contact for USDA and TWRA Lead preparation and documentation for inspections Coordinate animal related components of ZAA accreditation with the Owne r Elevate Welfare, Training, & Enrichment Design and oversee positive reinforcement training programs for priority species Lead preparation and documentation for inspections Train staff to implement and document enrichment and training effectively Manage Records & Systems Use AnimalCare software to maintain accurate animal records Implement and oversee logs, checklists, and schedules for feeding, cleaning, and enrichment Oversee inventory and proper storage of feed, bedding, supplements, and medications Enhance Guest Experience & Education Oversee all guest facing animal encounters (petting barns, aviary, pony rides, wildlife trail, etc.) Train staff to deliver safe, engaging animal interactions and keeper talks Ensure guest programs align with welfare, safety, and educational goals Lead in Emergencies Serve as the primary on call contact for animal emergencies after hours (rotation) Help design and run emergency response drills for staff

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

Minimum requirements: Bachelor's degree in zoology, animal science, biology, wildlife management, or related field; or 8+ years experience in zoological setting 6+ years of progressive experience in zoological/animal care settings 4+ years at an AZA, ZAA, or equivalent type accredited zoological facility 2+ years supervisory/leadership experience (Lead Keeper, Supervisor, Assistant Curator, etc.) Strong working knowledge of: USDA licensing requirements State wildlife regulations (ex., TWRA or similar) requirements Demonstrated experience working with: Domesticated and exotic hoofstock Small mammals Reptiles, amphibians, birds, and invertebrates Proven skills in: Operant conditioning / behavioral training Designing and running enrichment programs Coaching and holding staff to clear standards High degree of organization, attention to detail, and follow through Comfortable interacting with guests and speaking to groups Proficient with basic office software; familiarity with AnimalCare or similar software preferred Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting up to 50 lbs, standing on your feet for extended periods of time, bending, stooping, and extending oneself Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions Valid driver's license Willing and able to work a variable swing schedule, including weekends and holidays Proof of current rabies vaccination, or willingness to be vaccinated, at LLF expense.

BENEFITS OF JOINING OUR TEAM

Competitive annual salary based on experience starting at $50,000 401(k) with match Medical Insurance Paid Time Off Life Insurance Paid Professional Development Free meal when you work a 6+ hour shift Unlimited admission for you and 5 guests Discounts on dining and merchandise Annual team member appreciation event Employee referral bonus program Work shirt, work boots, and name badge provided

SCHEDULE

Full time, salaried leadership position Regular weekend and holiday work required On call rotation for after hours animal emergencies

Pay:

From $50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) matching Employee discount Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance

Experience:

supervisory: 2 years (Required) progressive animal care in an AZA, ZAA, or accredited zoo: 6 years (Required)

Work Location:

In person