Assistant Curator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Salary: $59,217.60 Annually
Location : 517 Court Place, Louisville, KY 40202, KY
Job Type: Full_Time
Job Number: 15838
Department: Zoo
Opening Date: 08/06/2026
Closing Date: 8/19/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Description
Summary Objective
The purpose of this position is to perform curatorial work in general operational areas.
This class works under general supervision, independently developing work methods and sequences.
Examples of Duties
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The essential functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the class as necessary.
• Supervises, directs, and evaluates assigned staff, processing employee concerns and problems, directing work, counseling, disciplining, and completing employee performance appraisals.
• Coordinates, assigns and reviews work and establishes work schedules; maintains standards; monitors status of work in progress; inspects completed work assignments; answers questions; gives advice and direction as needed.
• Observes the general health and behavior of the animals.
• Assists in the acquisition, disposition, and exhibition of animals.
• Assists in budget preparation and monitors expenditures.
• Participates in renovation planning and the design of new exhibits as directed.
• Assists in the safety and security operations of the zoo.
• Maintains applicable records on the animals and directly facilitates zoo participation in the International Species Inventory System.
• Participates in scientific research as available or necessary.
• Participates in daily work routines of the animal area.
ANIMAL COMMISSARY
• Prepares diets for different types of animals, as prescribed by the Veterinarian and Curatorial staff, and maintains electronic inventory of animal diets.
• Establishes and maintains standards of food production and service.
• Orders vitamins, hay, grains, produce, other food stock, supplies and equipment and maintains inventory of food and kitchen stock.
• Ensures commissary and hay barn is kept clean and safe for food preparation and to meet USDA standards and regulations.
• Researches and develops ways to improve diets and diet components.
• Supervises and participates in animal waste collection and removal and makes deliveries to landfill.
ANIMAL TRAINING AND GLACIER RUN
• Develops behavioral enrichment programs for animals.
• Instructs and trains animal department staff on the use of behavioral training.
• Researches, recommends, and implements new training methodologies, techniques and programs and transfers that information and knowledge through meetings and keeper training programs.
• Establishes, initiates, and participates in public programs related to training activities.
GLACIER RUN
• Oversees the dive safety program.
• Performs related work as assigned.
Minimum Requirements
MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
• Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Zoology or related discipline.
• Two (2) years of managerial experience in a Zoo.
• EQUIVALENCY: An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted.
OTHER MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
• Must be on 24-hour call.
• Must participate in an employee preventive health care program.
• Must participate in an operative conditioning program.
• Must work a varied schedule.
• Must participate in public education demonstrations and educational programs.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license with an acceptable driving history.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Physical demands refer to the requirements for physical exertion and coordination of limb and body movement.
• Performs medium work that involves walking, standing, stooping, jumping, lifting, digging, pushing and raising objects and also involves exerting between 20 and 50 pounds of force on a regular and recurring basis and 50 to 100 pounds of force on an occasional basis.
UNAVOIDABLE HAZARDS (WORK ENVIRONMENT)
Unavoidable hazards refer to the job conditions that may lead to injury or health hazards even though precautions have been taken.
• Involves routine and frequent exposure to:
Bright/dim light; Dusts and pollen.
Extreme heat and/or cold; Wet or humid conditions.
Extreme noise levels, Animals/wildlife.
Vibration; Fumes and/or noxious odors.
Traffic; Moving machinery.
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE
Louisville Metro Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires the Louisville Metro Government to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.
STANDARD CLAUSES
May be required to work nights, weekends, holidays and emergencies (man-made or natural) to meet the business needs of Louisville Metro Government.
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of essential functions and responsibilities that are required of an employee for this job. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.
ESSENTIAL SAFETY FUNCTIONS
It is the responsibility of each employee to comply with established policies, procedures and safe work practices. Each employee must follow safety training and instructions provided by their supervisor. Each employee must also properly wear and maintain all personal protective equipment required for their job. Finally, each employee must immediately report any unsafe work practices or unsafe conditions as well as any on-the-job injury or illnesses.
Every manager/supervisor is responsible for enforcing all safety rules and regulations. In addition, they are responsible for ensuring that a safe work environment is maintained, safe work practices are followed and employees are properly trained.
Louisville Metro Government is committed to providing our employees with the tools they need to lead a fit and healthy life. Aside from community-wide initiatives like the Mayor's Hike, Bike and Paddle event every Memorial Day and Labor Day, and the Healthy Hometown Movement, Metro Government provides employees with programs designed to enhance their life and well-being, like a Wellness Center that allows employees and their dependents with Metro health insurance to take care of their basic medical and health needs for a $5 co-pay. Louisville Metro Government understands that a team of healthy, vibrant employees is the greatest asset we have.
Full Time Regular
• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Group Term Life
• Supplemental Life
• Accidental Death & Dismemberment
• Sick Leave
• Vacation
• Holiday Pay
• Bereavement Leave
• Kentucky Public Pensions Authority
• 457 Deferred Comp
• Voluntary Lifestyle Benefits
• Tuition Assistance
• Qualified Adult Benefits
• Childcare Assistance
• Free TARC Use
• Paid Parental Leave
Part Time - 17.5 to 25 Hours Per Week
• Vacation (pro rata)
• Sick Leave (pro rata)
• Holiday Pay (pro rata)
Part Time - Less Than 17.5 Hours Per Week
• Ineligible For Benefits
Temporary Positions
• Ineligible For Benefits
Interns
• Ineligible For Benefits
01
Do you have a bachelor's degree in Biology, Zoology or related discipline?

• Yes
• No

02
Do you have two (2) years of managerial experience in a Zoo?

• Yes
• No

03
Are you able to be on 24 hour call?

• Yes
• No

04
Are you able to work a varied schedule?

• Yes
• No

05
Do you possess and can you maintain a valid state driver's license with an acceptable driving history?

• Yes
• No

Required Question