Position Title: Bird Keeper
Department: Husbandry
Reports To: Curator of Birds & Mammals
Location: Audubon Aquarium & Audubon Insectarium
FLSA Status: Non-exempt
Date Revised: October 2024
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.
What You’ll Do
Entry level to experienced level keeper; this position encompasses semi-skilled to advanced level work in the routine husbandry of assigned animals and care of assigned habitats. Responsible for all aspects of animal health, welfare, exhibit maintenance, recordkeeping. Maintains team values, a willingness to always be learning and teaching, and a commitment to the Audubon Nature Institute culture.
Day to Day Responsibilities
- Routine husbandry of assigned animals and care of assigned habitats.
- Responsible for all aspects of animal health, welfare, exhibit maintenance, recordkeeping.
- Animal training and enrichment as assigned.
- Keeper chats and / or “Wild Encounter” programs.
- Light exhibit repair and maintenance.
- Food preparation for assigned animals in the dedicated section.
- Maintains daily reports, logs, research or veterinary records, as appropriate and according to established guidelines, requires basic skills with Microsoft Office software applications with the use of ZIMS global record system.
- Administers prescribed medications, supplements, or treatments under the guidance of the veterinary and animal management staff.
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
- High School diploma (or equivalent) and a degree from a recognized college or university are required. College course work in zoology, biology, animal science or a related field is preferred; or an equivalent level of work experience and education as determined by the hiring authority.
- Minimum of one year of unpaid or paid experience in a zoological facility, public aquarium, wildlife facility, aviary, or similar facility with a focus on avian species and other taxa as needed (i.e., mammals and / or reptiles) in an AZA zoological setting.
- Knowledge of modern aviculture, other taxa as needed (i.e., mammals and / or reptiles) in an AZA zoological setting.
- Have a good understanding of basic to advanced operant conditioning techniques; skills are to grow as keeper becomes more experienced with time.
- Understanding of professional animal care and welfare standards.
- Ability to engage guests in pursuit of education and conservation goals. This includes chats, tours, media appearances, ambassador animal programs, etc.
- Understanding/ experience with care of aquatic animals/ systems in a professional setting with demonstrated success.
- Has an understanding of natural history, anatomy, behavior, and environmental parameters.
- Must have the ability to work weekends and holidays
- Possess a valid driver’s license.
Nice-to-Haves
- Experience at AZA accredited public facility is preferred.
- Knowledge of breeding, incubation, and hand-rearing a plus.
- Experience working with power tools is a plus.
- SCUBA certification is preferred
- First Aid/ CPR is preferred
Physical Requirements
- 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.
