Supervisor Biologist - Curator of Herpetology

Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute

Supervisor Biologist - Curator of Herpetology

Position Summary

The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex, encompassing 21 museums and the National Zoo. The National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) is dedicated to saving species through cutting-edge science, collaboration, and public engagement.

NZCBI is seeking a Supervisory Biologist (Curator of Herpetology) to lead the management, care, and strategic direction of animal collections. This position plays a critical leadership role in ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare, conservation programming, and staff supervision within an accredited zoological setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and direct supervision of assistant curators, animal care staff, volunteers, interns, and contractors
• Oversee all aspects of daily animal care, husbandry, and welfare for a diverse collection including rare and endangered species
• Develop and implement animal management, breeding, and conservation programs
• Ensure compliance with institutional, regulatory, and accreditation standards
• Prepare and manage departmental budgets, including planning for routine and emergency needs
• Collaborate with veterinary, nutrition, facilities, and research teams to support animal health and habitat design
• Support disease surveillance, biosecurity, and population sustainability initiatives
• Represent the department in institutional planning, professional forums, and collaborative conservation efforts

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• Degree in biological sciences, zoology, wildlife management, animal science, or a related field

OR

• Equivalent combination of education and professional experience

Experience

• Minimum one year of specialized experience at a level equivalent to senior zoo or wildlife management leadership
• Demonstrated experience:
• Supervising and developing animal care staff
• Managing animal collections, particularly within an accredited zoo or similar institution
• Budget management and administrative oversight
• Participating in exhibit planning, construction, or facility design

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience managing complex, multi-species zoological collections
• Knowledge of AZA standards and accreditation processes
• Experience with conservation breeding programs and SSP participation
• Strong leadership, communication, and collaboration skills
• Experience working with endangered or exotic species

Work Environment & Conditions

• Full-time, permanent position
• Requires weekend, holiday, and emergency response coverage
• Exposure to animals, including potential risks (bites, scratches, zoonotic diseases)
• Participation in medical surveillance and vaccination programs required
• Occasional travel for conferences, meetings, or animal transport

Salary & Benefits

• Salary range: $102,415 - $133,142 annually (GS-12 equivalent)
• Federal benefits package (health insurance, retirement, leave)
• Telework (limited/ad hoc eligibility)

Experience Required

Preferred Qualifications Experience managing complex, multi-species zoological collections Knowledge of AZA standards and accreditation processes Experience with conservation breeding programs and SSP participation Strong leadership, communication, and collaboration skills Experience working with endangered or exotic species

Perks

Federal benefits package (health insurance, retirement, leave) Telework (limited/ad hoc eligibility)

How to Apply

Interested applicants should apply through the Smithsonian/USAJOBS application system:

USAJOBS - Job Announcement

USAJOBS - Job Announcement

These are two separate postings with separate qualifications. Make sure you are applying to the correct posting

Application deadline: June 9, 2026 (11:59 PM ET)

Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute

Washington, DC 20008

Phone: ...

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