Zookeeper/Senior Zookeeper

Audubon Institute•New Orleans, LA

10h•Onsite

About The Position

Audubon Zoo’s Bird Department is seeking an enthusiastic bird keeper to join a growing team responsible for a diverse collection of more than 200 birds representing 56 species and multiple Species Survival Plan (SSP) programs. Reporting to the Assistant Curator of Birds, the keeper provides daily animal care, supports the health and welfare of the birds, maintains assigned exhibits and workspaces, and participates in departmental projects and activities. The role also includes visitor engagement, support for veterinary care, and supervision and guidance of interns and volunteers.

Requirements

Must have a current driver’s license.
Ability to perform strenuous work and lift at least 50 pounds.
Ability to sit, stand, bend, and stoop.
Ability to work indoors and outdoors in a typical New Orleans climate and under field conditions, including heat, humidity, plant allergens, spiny plants, and insects.
Ability to pass a drug test, TB test, and pre-employment background check.
Ability to work weekends, holidays, and evenings as needed.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in the biological sciences.
At least one year of paid professional experience working with birds in a zoological park or related institution.
Experience and familiarity with aviculture practices, avian behavior, and natural history.
Understanding of the role of bird departments in zoos and wildlife conservation.
Open-mindedness and willingness to consider new ideas, practices, and perspectives.
Desire to learn.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent time management skills.
Excellent observational skills and attention to detail.
Excellent record-keeping skills.
Avicultural experience with egg incubation and hand-rearing.
Prior ZIMS experience.
Technical skills such as carpentry, exhibit construction, and plant care.

Responsibilities

Perform daily husbandry for a large and diverse collection of birds.
Use evidence-based husbandry practices to support the health and welfare of assigned animals.
Maintain exhibits, service areas, husbandry equipment, tools, and life support systems.
Monitor and document animal behavior, health, and welfare, and promptly report irregularities to a supervisor.
Maintain detailed and accurate records.
Work collaboratively with the bird team and other zoo departments.
Assist veterinary staff with medical exams, procedures, and treatments.
Develop and provide goal-based enrichment that promotes natural behaviors and optimal welfare.
Develop and provide operant conditioning for husbandry and medical management.
Maintain live feeder insect colonies.
Engage visitors through scheduled keeper chats, casual interactions, and media appearances.
Provide supervision, guidance, and support to interns and volunteers.
Participate in departmental discussions and meetings.
Serve on the zoo’s emergency storm rider team.
Participate in safety drills and training programs.
Represent Audubon Zoo and its Bird Department on zoo committees and task forces as requested.
Perform other duties as assigned.