Animal Care Specialist - Aviculture I
Location
San Antonio, Texas, United States
Work type
Onsite
Employment
Full Time
Experience
0-3 years
Compensation
$15 - $15 per hour
Posted
12h ago
Summary and responsibilities
Role overview
Summary
The Animal Care Specialist - Aviculture I is responsible for the daily care of assigned birds, including diet preparation, exhibit maintenance, and data collection. This role involves observing animal behavior, ensuring safety protocols, performing enrichment, and collaborating with veterinary staff and guests at the San Antonio Zoo.
As an Animal Care Specialist in the Aviculture Department, you will support all aspects of daily bird care, exhibit maintenance, behavioral observation, and documentation. This role requires experience with diverse bird species and the ability to work independently after gaining proficiency.
The Impact You’ll Make
Daily Care
Provide general husbandry, including diet preparation and feeding
Clean and maintain exhibits and off-exhibit areas (substrate, perching, plant care)
Monitor and troubleshoot animal behavior; apply training techniques
Maintain accurate daily records and follow safety protocols
Support team members and uphold AZA and Zoo standards
Deliver excellent guest service and support the Zoo’s conservation mission
Behavioral Observation
Monitor, evaluate, and enrich animal behavior
Report concerns and maintain detailed records of routines and treatments
Safety
Exercise sound judgment in emergencies and around unpredictable animals
Ensure secure enclosures and safe environments for animals and guests
Enrichment & Training
Develop and implement species-specific enrichment
Apply operant conditioning for husbandry and demonstrations
Collaboration
Assist veterinary staff with treatments and procedures
Support animal transfers, medications, and handling/restraint
Act as liaison between veterinary staff, leadership, and team
Guest Engagement
Interact with guests, staff, and VIPs
Participate in educational talks, tours, and events
Team Development
Study animal care and natural history materials
Identify species and build strong working relationships
Additional Responsibilities
Assist with pest control and light maintenance
Operate equipment (mowers, pressure washers, tools) safely
Perform other duties as assigned
Skills & Qualifications
Associate degree or higher in animal science, zoology, biology, or related field (or equivalent experience)
Knowledge of avian biology, behavior, incubation, and chick rearing preferred
Experience in zoo aviculture and habitat care preferred
Ability to handle eggs and assist with breeding programs
Familiarity with systems like ZIMS or TRACKS a plus
Strong communication and organizational skills
Ability to train and support volunteers/interns
Valid driver’s license (or ability to obtain Texas Class C within 45 days)
Must pass background check and drug screening
Work Environment
Must be 18+ and able to work outdoors in varying weather
Flexible schedule required (days, nights, weekends, holidays)
Year-round role with occasional after-hours assignments
Join the San Antonio Zoo team and help inspire care and conservation for the natural world.
Updated 12h ago
Candidate fit
Skills and qualifications
Additional skills
Experience
0-3 years
Certifications
How this role is positioned
Role classification
Job domains
Industries
Employment
Full Time
Contract duration
Permanent
Hiring type
Direct
Global hiring
Location specific
Offer details
Compensation and benefits
Compensation
$15 - $15 per hour
Location, schedule, and role shape
Work setup
Work conditions
Bandwidth profile
Context on the employer
Company snapshot
Company
San Antonio Zoo
Team size
Growing team
Location
San Antonio, Texas, United States
Choosing where to grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it’s equally important you know that the place you choose to work at will support and guide you. With a diversity of passionate people, San Antonio Zoo is a place where you can collaborate with others securing a future for wildlife.
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Animal Care Specialist - Aviculture I
San Antonio, Texas, United States • Full Time