About this opportunity
Gulf Breeze Zoo lists this Curator of Hoofstock opportunity in gulf breeze, Florida. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
The Gulf Breeze is looking for an energetic and enthusiastic Curator of Hoofstock. The Hoofstock team cares for animals in both a free-range preserve and exhibit setting; including (but not limited to): giraffes, southern white rhino, Indian rhino, dromedary camels, Thomson’s gazelles, blackbucks, Nile and pygmy hippos, kangaroos, and ratites.
Description
The Curator of Hoofstock is responsible for the management, welfare, and strategic development of the zoo’s hoofstock collection, farm area, preserve operations, commissary, and service road operations. This position provides direct supervision to the Farm/Commissary/Service Road Lead and Preserve Lead while maintaining the highest standards of husbandry, collection management, staff leadership, and operational efficiency.
This is a working management position requiring both administrative oversight and active field participation.
Provide direct oversight of all hoofstock, farm, preserve, and support operations
Supervise the Farm/Commissary/Service Road Lead and Preserve Lead
Ensure exceptional standards of animal husbandry, nutrition, exhibit maintenance, and welfare
Manage breeding recommendations, acquisitions, transfers, and collection planning
Coordinate hoof care, preventative medicine, veterinary procedures, and reproductive management
Oversee commissary operations including diet preparation, inventory, and food quality
Monitor forage quality, nutrition, body condition, and feeding protocols
Maintain accurate records including medical records, inventories, and breeding documentation
Develop and maintain departmental SOPs and operational procedures
Recruit, train, mentor, and evaluate department staff
Develop schedules and ensure appropriate staffing
Participate in enclosure development and facility improvement projects
Assist with budget development and purchasing
Coordinate maintenance needs with Facilities
Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement
Participate in emergency response procedures and animal escapes
Serve as a member of the zoo’s leadership team
Education and Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Zoology, Biology, Animal Science, or related field (or equivalent experience)
Minimum five years of progressive zoological experience.
At least three years of supervisory experience.
Extensive hands‑on experience with hoofstock species, including large ungulates.
Strong understanding of nutrition, hoof care, breeding management, and preventative medicine.
Strong understanding of animal behavior, welfare and enrichment techniques.
Requirements
Excellent organizational and leadership skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment
Ability to manage multiple priorities and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment
Must be professional, in both demeanor and appearance
Must be physically fit and active, able to lift 50 pounds comfortably and be able to work in all types of weather
Must possess a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn
Must maintain a non-smoking/vaping work environment
Must be able to work an 8‑hour shift
Weekend and holidays are required
Compensation and Benefits
Competitive salary, insurance including vision and dental coverage, paid sick/vacation time and 401k options available.
Salary:
Commensurate with experience.
Work Location: Gulf Breeze, Florida. Relocate before starting work (Required)
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Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.