Biologist (Assistant Curator), Birds

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Smithsonian Institution

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Biologist (Assistant Curator), Birds

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The Biologist plays a vital leadership role in advancing animal care excellence and supporting the strategic vision for Birds. Working closely with the Curator, veterinary, nutrition, conservation, research, and facilities teams, this role helps ensure that animal programs align with AZA standards, Species Survival Plan (SSP) goals, and the Smithsonian's broader conservation priorities.

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Smithsonian's Conservation Biology Institute is hiring an Assistant Curator on the Birds team in our Front Royal, VA Campus. This position serves as a frontline leader, coach, and mentor for the team, fostering collaboration and teamwork to achieve unit goals. The Biologist assists in the efficient and effective operation of the unit and supports the curator's priorities and objectives. Responsibilities include animal care, breeding, education, conservation, exhibition, collection planning, and research support for a collection that primarily includes Birds and Ungulates.

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This position is ideal for a professional who is passionate about mentoring teams, strengthening welfare-centered husbandry programs, and contributing to an organizational culture rooted in accountability, innovation, and collaboration.

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Core Responsibilities

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The Biologist (Assistant Curator) provides daily care and oversight for the National Zoo's collection, ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare, conservation, and operational excellence. This position supports the curator's priorities and contributes to the efficient and effective functioning of the Asia Trail unit.

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In this role, you will:

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Provide daily care for exotic and endangered animals within the National Zoological and Conservation Biology Institute, focusing on breeding, education, conservation, exhibition, collection planning, and research support.

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Coordinate and facilitate work across the Birds team, communicating procedures clearly and ensuring alignment with institutional goals.

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Assign and schedule work, establish priorities and deadlines, and provide technical direction to staff to maintain smooth operations.

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Collaborate with architects, designers, and contractors to design and construct animal facilities that meet the highest standards of welfare and functionality.

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Ensure accurate and engaging public information, including labeling, graphics, and interpretive materials that reflect the collection's conservation significance.

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Coordinate keeper training and manage supplies, including commissary operations, to support program objectives.

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Maintain precise animal records to ensure complete inventory and compliance with AZA and Smithsonian standards.

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Experience Required

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You qualify for this position if you have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-07 level in the Federal Service. Successful candidates will bring demonstrated leadership experience in an AZA accredited facility, a strong foundation in modern zoological management practices, and a clear commitment to continuous improvement in animal welfare. Equally important is the ability to inspire teams, communicate effectively, and lead with integrity in a dynamic, mission driven environment. \t\t\t\t\t

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Salary

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$70,623-$91,815 Annually

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How to Apply

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Applications for the Biologist (Assistant Curator) position are accepted through the official USAJOBS portal. To apply, visit the job announcement at USAJOBS - Job Announcement and click "Apply Online" in the upper right corner of the page.

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Your application package must include:

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• Resume - No more than two pages. Clearly describe your relevant experience, responsibilities, and accomplishments. Avoid copying language directly from the vacancy announcement; instead, use descriptive examples of your actual work.

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• Unofficial transcripts - As this position has an education requirement.

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• Veterans' preference documentation - DD214 (Member 4 Copy) and, if applicable, SF‑15 and VA letter.

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• Proof of U.S. accreditation - If you completed education abroad.

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All materials must be submitted by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on 9/16/2026.

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Helpful Hints for Applying via USAJOBS

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• Create or update your USAJOBS profile before starting the application. Ensure your contact information and work history are current.

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• Tailor your resume to the position. Use measurable achievements and specific examples that demonstrate your experience with animal care, team leadership, and conservation programs.

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• Preview the questionnaire in the job posting to understand what competencies will be assessed.

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• Upload documents early - USAJOBS can time out if attachments are large or your session expires.

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• Save a PDF copy of your completed application for your records.

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• Track your status by logging into your USAJOBS account and selecting "My Applications." You'll also receive email updates from the Smithsonian as your application moves through review stages.

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• Be concise and accurate - Overstating qualifications or copying announcement text may result in disqualification.

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• Check Smithsonian's application tips at si.edu/OHR/howtoapply for additional guidance.

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Smithsonian Institution

1500 Remount Rd

Front Royal , VA 22630

Phone: 202-633-6336

Fax: 202-633-6401

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