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CIT~ OF SANTA A~A ZOO CURATOR DEFINITION Under general directio~supervises the operation and maintenance of the municipal zoo and performs responsible technical and professional work involved in the ecquisltion, breeding, exhibition and care of zoo animals. EXAMPLES OF DUTIES Determines food, shelter, care and environmental needs of · wide variety of zoo speci- mens, including ma~mm~ls, birds and reptiles and plans, organizes, supervises and par- ticipates in the activities ~,enich provide for those needs; determines diets, feeding schedules and environmental requirements, including special food requirements and environmental conditions necessar~ for reproduction; supervises food purchasing, pre- paration and feeding activities; supervises the cleaning and disinfecting of living areas of zoo animals and the maintenance of public walks and viewing areas within the zoo complex; in consultation with veterinarians, develops, supervises end participates in programs to control and condition all zoo specimens for public exhibition and main- tain their physical safety and well-being, including controlling and preventing diseases and injuries; sets up and supervises the maintenance of comprehensive records pertain- ing to the keeping and care of animals; advises on and participates in formulation and development of the Master Plan for zoo improvement and the design and modification of exhibits and facilities; develops and implements zoological education programs for the public; prepares budget estimates and controls expenditures; participates in the public relations and fund-raising activities pertaining to the zoo, including the preparation of reports and articles for publication and giving lectures to schools, civic organizations and other community groupa; and performs other related duties as required. DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS This is a responsible professional and supervisory position requiring the application of specialized knowledge of a technical and scientific nature to the operation and maintenance of a small but expanding municipal zoo. Faulty Judgement could result in the loss or injury to exhibit specimens with a resultant loss of public confidence and support. Supervises technical, maintenance and clerical employees. Work ia evaluated in terms of results obtained and the promotion of increased public support. RECOHHENDED MINIMUM qUALIFICATIONS Graduation from s recognized four-year college or university with specialization in zoology, biology or closely related field and three years' full-time paid professional zoo experience as an assistant curator, curator, assistant zoo director, zoo director, or zoo veterinarian or any combination of training and experience which provides the following knovledge and abilities: Thorough knowledge of: zoology as required to determine food, shelter, care and environ- mental requirements of zoo specimens; scientific information pertaining to their selection and breeding; various diseases affecting zoo specimens and the appropriate methods and techniques for disease prevention and control; working knowledge of zoo management and supervisory principles and practices. Abtlity to: plan, organize and supervise the work of others; prepare budget estimates; prepare technical reports and articles for publication; speak effectively before groups; and deal tactfully and effectively with other employees, special interest groups and the general public.