Wildlife Curator

Woodbridge Aquarium & Wildlife Center

$28/hour + Bi-Weekly & Monthly Bonus Opportunities

Why This Role Matters

At Woodbridge Aquarium & Wildlife Center, we’re not just caring for animals, we’re creating meaningful connections between people and wildlife that inspire conservation for generations to come.

We’re looking for a passionate, hands-on leader to join our team as a Wildlife Curator. This is a unique opportunity to lead a dedicated team and directly impact animal welfare, guest experience, and conservation efforts, all in a dynamic, growing environment.

If you’re someone who thrives in both leadership and on-the-floor animal care, this role gives you the best of both worlds.

What You’ll Love About This Role:

• Competitive pay at $28/hour.
• Additional bi-weekly and monthly bonus opportunities.
• The ability to lead, influence, and build something meaningful.
• A collaborative environment where your expertise is valued .
• Direct impact on animal welfare, conservation, and guest education.

What You’ll Do:

Lead Exceptional Animal Care:

• Oversee daily care, feeding, and enrichment for a diverse collection of terrestrial and aquatic species.
• Partner with veterinary and husbandry teams to ensure top-tier health and wellness programs.
• Continuously evaluate and elevate animal welfare standards.

Shape Engaging, High-Quality Exhibits:

• Collaborate cross-functionally to design and maintain safe, enriching, and educational habitats.
• Provide expertise in species selection, habitat design, and exhibit improvements.
• Ensure all exhibits meet the highest standards of safety, cleanliness, and functionality.

Drive Compliance & Best Practices:

• Ensure full compliance with USDA, Fish & Wildlife, CITES , and all applicable regulations.
• Maintain accurate documentation and oversee audits, inspections, and biosecurity practices.
• Train and guide staff on proper protocols and procedures.

Lead & Develop Your Team:

• Supervise, mentor, and develop animal care professionals.
• Foster a culture of accountability, growth, and teamwork.
• Support hiring, scheduling, and performance management.

Champion Conservation & Education:

• Contribute to conservation initiatives and partnerships.
• Collaborate on programs that educate and inspire guests.
• Represent the organization as a leader in animal welfare and conservation.

Support Operations:

• Manage budgets and resources related to animal care and exhibits.
• Ensure efficient, ethical procurement of supplies and animals.
• Partner with leadership to drive operational success.

What We’re Looking For:

Experience & Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Zoology, Biology, Animal Science, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 5+ years in a zoo, aquarium, or wildlife facility.
• 2+ years in a leadership or supervisory role.

Skills That Set You Apart:

• Strong knowledge of animal behavior, welfare, and husbandry.
• A collaborative leadership style (not just directive—this role partners closely with teams).
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Experience with exhibit design, public education, or conservation programs is a plus.

What to Expect Physically:

• Active, hands-on role requiring lifting (up to 50 lbs), bending, and standing.
• Work in both indoor and outdoor environments.
• Flexible schedule including weekends, evenings, and holidays.

A Note About This Role

This position is designed as a guideline, not a rigid box. We’re looking for someone who can adapt, collaborate, and grow with us, not just check every single box.