Zoo Curator

Role Overview

The City of Wagga Wagga is seeking a committed and knowledgeable Zoo Curator to join their Botanic Gardens team. This permanent, full-time position is pivotal in managing the daily operations, development, and upkeep of the Council's Zoo, ensuring excellent animal care and visitor engagement.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversee daily zoo operations, collaborating closely with Zoo Keepers and the Botanic Gardens Team Leader to coordinate staff, volunteers, animal care, maintenance, visitor services, and compliance with legislation.
• Lead, supervise, and guide zoo staff, casual workers, and volunteers, fostering a collaborative environment that upholds safety, animal welfare, customer service excellence, and strong operational performance.
• Provide direct animal care including feeding, hydration, health assessments, enrichment, and maintaining welfare standards.
• Maintain cleanliness and upkeep of animal enclosures, exhibits, pathways, and related infrastructure.
• Assist in the construction and maintenance of animal enclosures and zoo exhibits.
• Conduct informative guided tours and positively engage with zoo visitors to enhance their experience.
• Keep accurate records such as animal, chemical, and treatment logs.
• Support the maintenance and establishment of gardens, lawns, and landscaped areas within the Botanic Gardens precinct.
• Perform horticultural tasks including planting, pruning, irrigation, mowing, pest and weed control, rehabilitation, and maintain facilities.
• Operate and maintain machinery, power tools, protective equipment safely and effectively.
• Work within seasonal roster systems, contributing to a safe, cooperative, and customer-centered team atmosphere.

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• Relevant certification such as Certificate III in Captive Animals.
• Valid Class C Driver's License.
• General Construction Induction (White Card).
• Certificate for AQF III Chemical Application.
• Extensive experience in zoo management, animal husbandry, environmental parks, or related fields involving animal care, maintenance, and operational leadership.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to manage teams and work both independently and collaboratively.

Additional Requirements

In compliance with Work Health and Safety laws, candidates must be vaccinated for Q-Fever and provide vaccination proof. Pre-employment background and police checks will be conducted, with considerations made individually regarding any criminal records.

Compensation and Benefits

• This role is permanent full-time, requiring 38 hours per week.
• Salary starts at $2,801.00 gross per fortnight with progression potential to $3,361.20 gross per fortnight plus 12% superannuation.
• Opportunities for ongoing professional training and development.

Application Details

Applications close on Sunday, 23 August 2026 at 11:59 pm AEST. Interviews are planned for the week beginning Monday, 31 August 2026. For inquiries, contact the Team Leader at 0424 750 206.

Inclusive Employer Statement

The City of Wagga Wagga is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all backgrounds including women, Indigenous peoples, culturally and linguistically diverse individuals, persons with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people of all ages.