Job Description
This is an exciting time at Adelaide Zoo, with several significant projects planned for the near future.
Zoos SA offers a unique opportunity to build a career in a forward‐thinking conservation organisation, while enjoying South Australia's exceptional lifestyle and access to Australia's wild places.
Adelaide Zoo is seeking an experienced, motivated and values‐driven Team Supervisor – Herpetofauna to join the Life Sciences team, leading the Herpetofauna rounds, including reptiles, Envirodome and the Nocturnal House.
This role is offered on a permanent, full‐time basis, across a 7‐day roster.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Reporting to the Assistant Curator, the Team Supervisor – Herpetofauna plays a key leadership role in the day‐to‐day supervision and coordination of keepers, volunteers and students, while maintaining a strong hands‐on presence with the animal collection.
Working with minimal supervision and within established guidelines, you will support the delivery of section goals, animal programmes and operational priorities, while contributing to continuous improvement across the team.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Supervising and coordinating daily husbandry and operational activities across the Herpetofauna section
Providing technical leadership and guidance to keepers, ensuring agreed standards of animal care, safety and record‐keeping are met
Supporting the Assistant Curator with workload planning, task allocation, rosters, performance feedback and staff development
Monitoring animal health and welfare, working closely with veterinary staff and participating in treatment, enrichment and training programmes
Leading by example in the protected management of reptiles, including venomous species,



and ensuring compliance with WHS requirements and SOPs
Contributing to exhibit planning, maintenance and evaluation to ensure animal welfare, visitor experience and operational safety
Delivering and overseeing keeper talks, presentations and public interactions that connect visitors with conservation outcomes
Liaising with internal teams and external partners on conservation, research and animal management initiatives
Assisting with the induction, training and supervision of staff, volunteers and work experience students
Deputising for the Assistant Curator as required
As with all curatorial roles at Adelaide Zoo, you may be required to work across other sections of the department in line with operational needs.
ABOUT YOU
Extensive experience working within a zoological setting, with demonstrated expertise in herpetofauna
Proven experience managing reptiles, including venomous species/varanids
Proven experience and knowledge working with fish (both freshwater and marine), invertebrates, amphibians and native mammals
Certificate III in Captive Animals or other relevant and acceptable zoookeeping qualifications
Demonstrated ability to supervise, guide and support others in a practical animal‐care environment
Strong communication skills, with confidence engaging staff, peers, volunteers, external stakeholders and the public
Experience delivering or overseeing public presentations, keeper talks and visitor experiences
Sound knowledge of animal training, enrichment and conditioning programmes
A strong understanding of workplace health and safety and secure animal management practices
The ability to plan, prioritise and manage daily workloads effectively
Supervisory or leadership training and experience supporting staff development is highly desirable.
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📌 Team Supervisor Of Herpetofauna (Adelaide) (New South Wales)
🏢 The Royal Zoological Society Of Sa
📍 New South Wales