Position Title: Bird Keeper
Department: Birds/Husbandry
Reports To: Assistant Curator/Curator
Location: Zoo
Position Type: Full-Time
Who We Are
Audubon Nature Institute comprises Audubon Park, Audubon Zoo, Audubon Aquarium, Audubon Insectarium, Audubon Louisiana Nature Center, Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center, Audubon Center for Research of Endangered Species, Woldenberg Riverfront Park, and Audubon Wilderness Park
At Audubon Nature Institute, we are more than a collection of parks, museums, and conservation centers—we are a dedicated team with a shared mission to celebrate, protect, and connect people to the wonders of nature. Our work is guided by our culture code, which is at the heart of everything we do. We believe in Activating Impact by integrating tangible, real-world outcomes into all our initiatives, fostering a culture where every action contributes to a positive environmental impact. We are committed to Empowering Optimism, using positivity to inspire others to act and believe in their capacity to create meaningful change. We strive to Create Connection by engaging with people from all walks of life, knowing that the collective strength of a diverse community can address the most pressing challenges facing our natural world. At Audubon, we embody the spirit of Le Bon Temps, infusing the joy and vibrant culture of Louisiana into our everyday work, celebrating our unique heritage while advancing our mission. As Leaders of the Pack, we constantly seek smarter, innovative solutions, challenging conventions to drive the change we want to see in the world.
Birds:
Audubon Zoo’s Bird Department is growing and currently seeking enthusiastic individuals to fill a bird keeper position. The department cares for a diverse collection of more than 300 birds representing 100 species and SSP and SAFE programs, as well a few mammal species.
Reporting to the department’s Assistant Curator and Curator , bird keepers will be responsible for providing daily husbandry and ensuring the health and welfare of all animals under their care, as well as maintaining excellent condition of their assigned exhibits and workspaces and participating in all departmental projects and activities as needed. Ideal candidates will have prior aviculture experience, familiarity with the natural history and behavior of birds, excellent time management skills, and the ability to work with a diverse team in a fast-paced environment.
What You’ll Do
Preform all aspects of daily husbandry to a wide variety of avian species. Feeding, cleaning, medicating, training and enrichment.
Provide a high standard of care to assigned animals. Prioritize animal welfare for advancing animal care.
Posses’ strong communication such as active listening and thoughtful dialogue.
Has knowledge of operant condition techniques and utilize the knowledge to advance the care of the collection.
Strong observation skills based on behavioral and medical behaviors.
Perform behavioral enrichment activities and create new and innovative enrichment based on the needs of the animals.
Experience with safe handling and restraint of a variety of avian species.
Required to preform exhibit repair and minor construction projects that pertain to the section.
Adhere to the high standards of grooming, uniform codes and appearance.
Performed all other duties as required by the Assistant Curator or Curator.
Additional/Overall Skills:
Maintain a positive attitude and a strong sense of accountability, fostering a collaborative team environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute.
Thrive in a team environment, using your organizational and technical skills to ensure the smooth execution of creative projects that resonate with our audience.
Celebrate the successes of your team and bring enthusiasm to your work, reflecting the joyful culture that is at the heart of Audubon’s mission.
Stay adaptable and open to learning new skills, embracing change and innovation as opportunities to lead and grow.
The above listed duties are general statements of required major duties and responsibilities performed on a regular and continuous basis. They do not exclude other duties as assigned.
What We’re Looking For
Must Haves: (required for the role)
A minimum bachelor’s degree in biology or related sciences or the equivalent work experience.
Paid or unpaid experience working with birds in an AZA accredited Zoological facility or similarly regulated facility.
The ability to engage guests in pursuit of education and conservation goals. Including chats, tours, and media appearances.
Must be available to work weekends and holidays.
Valid drivers license.
Nice-to-Haves: (preferred for the role)
Knowledge of AZA and USDA requirements.
First aide CPR preferred.
Computer skills with microsoft programs and ZIMS.
Physical Requirements: (Add per list provided based on role type)
Continuous standing, walking, lifting, bending, and twisting.
Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry objects weighing over 50 pounds, often repeatedly.
Regularly climbing ladders and operating heavy machinery.
Sustained manual dexterity and coordination.
Physical stamina for long shifts involving repetitive or strenuous tasks.
Primarily outdoor environments or industrial settings.
Frequent exposure to heat, cold, dust, fumes, or loud noises.
Exposure to potential hazards such as heavy machinery, moving vehicles, or electrical equipment.