Here at Nemacolin, our associates know to “Expect the Unexpected” – You have come across the career opportunity where entertainment and excitement are the job description. This position must be committed to making every experience memorable all while having fun and relishing the incredible atmosphere of the resort. 

Nestled within the breathtaking Laurel Highlands, a region known for its 3,000 square miles of spectacular natural scenery, Nemacolin Resort offers an unparalleled blend of luxury and adventure. Located just east of Pittsburgh, this four-season destination boasts world-class outdoor recreation, historic sites, and family-friendly activities. Our wildlife sanctuary, home to more than 150 animals representing over 50 species, including hoofed animals, carnivores, birds, herptiles, and select fish and invertebrates, invites a dedicated professional to join us in caring for these extraordinary residents.

At Nemacolin, our Wildlife Curator leads the animal care staff in managing the daily operations of the Wildlife Department. This position ensures the highest standards of animal welfare, guest engagement, and facility maintenance, supporting the Director of Animal Life in executing operational goals. The Wildlife Curator has direct responsibility for overseeing animal husbandry, health, enrichment, behavior management, and care programs. The role also ensures all standard operating procedures are adhered to while maintaining positive relations with guests and staff.

The Wildlife Curator is a critical leader in advancing the zoo’s vision of pushing towards excellence, driving the facility to lead the industry by developing unique programs that stand apart from traditional approaches. The role focuses on innovative conservation messaging, ensuring guests don’t just hear facts but experience the unique behaviors and traits of the animals firsthand through dynamic enrichment and training programs. The Wildlife Curator will closely manage and guide keepers to elevate these programs, bringing them to new levels and creating memorable, interactive guest experiences. This position also plays a vital role in rebuilding, designing, and developing a zoo that not only achieves ZAA accreditation but is recognized as a magical and transformative wildlife destination.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

(The following statements are intended as general illustrations of the work in this job class and are not all-inclusive for this position.)

Leadership & Staff Management: Lead and manage the animal care team, overseeing all aspects of animal husbandry, health, and enrichment. Schedule, train, and develop staff to meet high standards of care and guest engagement. Ensure adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and develop necessary protocols in collaboration with the Director of Animal Life. Supervise both front-of-house (guest-facing) and back-of-house (animal care) operations, ensuring a seamless guest experience and professional conduct. Serve as the leadership presence in the Wildlife Areas when the Director of Animal Life is not available, ensuring that staff and guest needs are met. Animal Care & Welfare Oversee the care, health, and management of the animal collection, ensuring compliance with established guidelines and government regulations. Develop and maintain enrichment and behavior management programs for all animals, promoting their well-being. Work closely with veterinarians and other professionals to develop and adjust animal feed and care guidelines. Coordinate animal acquisitions, transfers, and transactions, ensuring proper care, handling, and transportation of animals in collaboration with the Director of Animal Life. Collaborate with our contracted exotic veterinarian and with the Director of Animal Life to ensure that all health protocols, feeding schedules, and care guidelines are followed. Guest Engagement & Conservation Education: Create an immersive and educational experience for guests, tying conservation efforts into every interaction. Implement programs that go beyond flat facts, allowing guests to experience animals' unique behaviors through well-managed training and enrichment activities. Lead the development of new, engaging programs that showcase the “cool facts” about each species through their natural behaviors, enhancing guest understanding and appreciation. Elevate and manage enrichment and training programs, providing close guidance to keepers to bring these efforts to new levels of excellence. Family & Resource Management Monitor and enforce the cleanliness, functionality, and appearance of animal exhibits and facilities. Ensure that all exhibits are appropriate for the species they house and provide input on improvements to enhance animal welfare and guest engagement. Assist in managing budgets related to animal care, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to support the department’s goals. Operational Support & Safety:
Implement and enforce safety protocols, emergency procedures, and staff training related to animal handling, guest interactions, and facility maintenance. Ensure that animal care protocols align with the resort's safety and conservation goals. Schedule regular farrier, dentist, sheep shearer, and veterinary visits to ensure that the health needs of the animal collection are met in a timely manner. Collaboration & Communication Maintain clear and effective communication with the Director of Animal Life, veterinarians, staff, and external stakeholders, including other zoos and conservation organizations. Act as a mentor to staff, providing support in professional development and ensuring that all training needs are met. Ensure clear communication between Wildlife and other departments to promote a collaborative and efficient workplace. Compliance & Professional Development: Participate in relevant zoo association initiatives and networking opportunities to maintain professional standards. Ensure compliance with all government regulations regarding animal care, transportation, and safety. Stay updated on industry best practices, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes in wildlife management.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

Completion of a Bachelor’s Degree in Zoology, Animal Science, Biology, Ecology or related field from an accredited college or university Minimum of five years of experience in wildlife care, with at least three years in a management role at a professional zoological facility. Expert-level knowledge in managing exotic animals in captivity, with a strong understanding of animal behavior, husbandry, nutrition, enrichment, and training principles. Strong leadership skills with the ability to train, lead, and develop staff in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Demonstrates interpersonal sound judgment and decision-making skills in directing tasks, using discretion when necessary, understanding the potential impact on the department and others. Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to handle confidential information with discretion. Flexibility to work weekends, holidays, and respond to emergencies as needed. Valid state driver’s license required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds. Frequent standing, walking, and working in various outdoor weather conditions.

Why Work for Nemacolin?

Kick-start your career at Nemacolin, a world-renowned luxury resort nestled in southwestern Pennsylvania. Nemacolin boasts an unparalleled blend of elegance and adventure, offering an array of amenities that redefine luxury. With two Forbes-rated hotels from which to choose, guests are treated to the epitome of comfort and style. A five-star, five-diamond restaurant sets the stage for exquisite dining experiences, while our on-site wildlife habitats bring animal encounters to a whole new level. The opulent spa, championship golf courses, and a range of outdoor activities, including fly fishing, skiing, and snowboarding, provide a holistic and exciting getaway.

As a part of the Nemacolin team, you'll have the chance to work in a dynamic and supportive environment where your skills and passion will flourish. We believe in fostering growth and providing our team members with opportunities to shine and advance in their careers. Join us in delivering unparalleled experiences that leave lasting memories for our cherished guests and members. Real Life Magic meets boundless opportunity at Nemacolin. Come, be a part of it!

ASSOCIATE PERKS:

What’s in it for you? As a Nemacolin associate, you won’t just have a bright future — you’ll have a bright present! You’re invited to join our warm, supportive community, where you’ll enjoy competitive wages, exciting events, a full suite of benefits, discounts, and perks, and access to amenities at our associate community Wisteria.

Attractive 401(k) plan Paid vacation, holidays, and personal hours Family medical, dental, and vision insurance. Long-term and short-term disability insurance Employee and educational assistance program Up to 40% off Retail, Spa, Activities, Food and Beverage at the Resort On-site uniform and dry-cleaning services Discounted meals during breaks in associate break areas Wisteria Associate Community
Wisteria is Nemacolin’s way of showing our appreciation to our associates. This neighborhood is exclusive to associates and contains a Pub, Market, and Fitness Center. As a member of Team Nemacolin, you’ll enjoy these exclusive amenities. Associate Recognition programs
Nemacolin realizes that our associates help to set us apart from other organizations in the industry through their commitment to providing exceptional service and their ability to consistently exceed guests’ expectations.

Nemacolin promotes a culture of continuous learning for our associates. We are strongly committed to comprehensive professional development programs:

Opportunities for advancement – At Nemacolin, we encourage our associates to grow within the organization and gain experience in a variety of departments to better understand the hospitality industry. Nemacolin prides itself on promoting from within the organization, and many of our upper-level managers began in entry-level positions and advanced into their current roles. Mentoring and coaching programs – As a new associate, we provide a level of mentoring that is best suited to you to enhance your growth and career interests, while sharing knowledge, advice, and encouragement along the way.

This job description cannot possibly include a complete comprehensive listing of all the activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required by the organization and/or members of management. It reflects management’s assignment of essential functions, but it does not prescribe or restrict the additional tasks that may be required.