Audubon Zoo · Louisiana · posted today
Position Title: Bird Keeper/ Senior Bird Keeper Department: Bird Department Reports To: Assistant Curator of Birds Location: Audubon Zoo FLSA Status: Non-exempt Date Revised: November 2026 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 Audubon Zoo’s Bird Department is growing and currently seeking an enthusiastic individual to join its team as a bird keeper. The department cares for a diverse collection of more than 200 birds representing 56 species and multiple SSP programs. Reporting to the department’s assistant 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. Bird Keeper- 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. Senior Bird Keeper- A highly advanced level animal keeper position: this position encompasses highly skilled professional and technical work in the daily care of assigned animals and habitats, combined with a history of high-performance experience. A Senior Keeper is held to the highest expectations and is a role model and mentor to other staff in behavior and experience. Performs routine husbandry duties and assigned senior level duties; works under minimal supervision in a wide range of functions; trains animal keepers on tasks, routines and skills; trains interns and volunteer staff; initiates and participates in the development of SOP’s, training manuals, studbooks, SSP’s, research, etc. Senior Keepers are critical thinkers and perform professionally when dealing with difficult situations. All Senior Keepers must have a good balance of animal expertise and the ability to work with people. Senior Keepers are to always represent Audubon Nature Institute in a professional manner and work toward the Audubon’s and their facility’s missions. Day to Day Responsibilities • Routine husbandry of a large diverse collection of birds and their habitats. Closely monitor and document animal behavior, health and welfare, reporting irregularities to supervisors immediately. • Administers prescribed medications, supplements, or treatments and assists with medical procedures under the guidance of the veterinary and animal management staff. • Utilize evidence-based husbandry practices to ensure optimal health and welfare of assigned animals • Maintain detailed and accurate records, including but not limited to daily reports, logs, team communications and veterinary records. Requires basic skills with Microsoft Office software applications with the use of ZIMS global record system. • Work closely and cohesively with other members of the team as well as other zoo departments • Participate in Keeper chats and / or “Wild Encounter” programs as assigned. • Food preparation for assigned animals in the dedicated section. • Develop and provide goal-based enrichment to promote natural behaviors and optimum welfare • Maintain operant conditioning for husbandry and medical management purposes 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 coursework 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. • Bird Keeper- 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. An AZA accredited public facility is preferred. Senior Bird Keeper- Minimum of six years of paid experience in a zoological facility, public aquarium, wildlife facility, aviary, or similar facility with a focus on avian species in an AZA zoological setting. An AZA accredited public facility is preferred. • Demonstrated experience and familiarity with aviculture practices and avian behavior and natural history. • Open-mindedness, and a willingness to consider new ideas, practices and perspectives • Knowledge of modern aviculture in an AZA zoological setting as well as an understanding of professional animal care and welfare standards. • Understands natural history, anatomy, behavior, and environmental parameters. • Excellent time management skills and the ability to adapt. • 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 avian species. • Advanced understanding of operant conditioning techniques. • Experience working with power tools or light carpentry is a plus. • Experience with heavy machinery or a willingness to learn. • Previous experience with ZIMS global record system 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 outdoors (high heat index, humidity, insects) • Frequent exposure to heat, cold, dust, fumes, or loud noises. • Exposure to potential hazards such as heavy machinery, moving vehicles, or electrical equipment.
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