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RZRiverbanks Zoo & Garden
Riverbanks Zoo & GardenZoo

Bird Keeper

Location

Columbia, Missouri, United States

Work type

Onsite

Employment

Full Time

Experience

2-3 years

Compensation

$17 - $17 per hour

Posted

1d ago

Summary and responsibilities

Role overview

Summary

This full-time Bird Keeper position at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden involves the daily care of over 300 birds across 70 species, ensuring their welfare through enclosure maintenance, dietary plans, and record-keeping. The role requires proficiency in animal care techniques, effective communication, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment.

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden's Bird Department is currently seeking a motivated team member to care for over 300 birds spanning approximately 70 species. Working under the guidance of the Curator of Birds, this position ensures the proper welfare of animals within their assigned area.

This role demands proficiency in animal care techniques, effective communication skills, and the ability to thrive in both independent and collaborative settings within a dynamic environment and diverse range of bird species.

Essential Functions:

  • Cleans and maintains animal enclosures as per guidelines.

  • Safely operate tools and equipment necessary for animal and enclosure maintenance.

  • Execute dietary plans tailored to various bird species.

  • Maintain accurate records on animal behavior and produce detailed reports.

  • Build productive relationships and communicate across departments.

Knowledge and execution of: enrichment and training programs, zoo animal program operations, handling techniques for diverse animal species, feeding protocols, safety protocols in animal environments, and principles of record keeping.

Opportunities Include:

  • Training on all 5 avian runs.

  • Participation in artificial incubation, hand rearing, and parent-assist rearing for Lorikeets, Flamingos, Penguins, and more.

  • Opportunity to become certified in open water and dry suit diving and join the Riverbanks Dive Team.

  • Schedule rotation providing periodic weekends off.

Riverbanks is dedicated to fostering a vibrant workplace that values its staff, offering appreciation and ample opportunities for professional growth and development.

Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences preferred, along with two to three years of animal care experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the necessary skills, knowledge, and abilities. SCUBA and First Aid/CPR certifications are advantageous. Must possess or qualify for a valid SC driver's license.

The ideal candidate will have previous professional experience working with Avian species and enjoy working both independently and with a team on a variety of tasks and priorities that require attention-to-detail, sound decision making, and effective communication. This position will have weekly tasks in areas that include bending, stooping, crouching, crawling, climbing ladders and lifting/moving up to 60 lbs.

We’re not just looking for someone to fill a role. We’re looking for someone who wants to grow with us, be challenged, and take pride in the work they do. If you're passionate about animal conservation, eager to contribute, and excited about becoming part of a team that values creating connections and inspiring action to positively impact wildlife and wild places, we’d love to hear from you.

Updated 1d ago

Candidate fit

Skills and qualifications

Additional skills

Animal Care Techniques • 1+ yrs
Enclosure Maintenance • 1+ yrs
Dietary Planning • 1+ yrs
Record Keeping • 1+ yrs
Animal Behavior Observation • 1+ yrs
Enrichment and Training Programs • 1+ yrs
Communication Skills • 1+ yrs
Teamwork • 1+ yrs

Experience

2-3 years

Certifications

SC driver's license • Required

How this role is positioned

Role classification

Job domains

Operations

Industries

Wildlife & Conservation

Employment

Full Time

Contract duration

Permanent

Hiring type

Direct

Global hiring

Location specific

Offer details

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

$17 - $17 per hour

VisibilityShared on listing
CurrencyUSD
PeriodHourly

Location, schedule, and role shape

Work setup

Work conditions

Primary locationColumbia, Missouri, United States
Work typeOnsite
Global hiringNo

Bandwidth profile

peopleMedium7/10
physicalHigh9/10
cognitiveMedium7/10
executionHigh9/10
creativityMedium6/10
uncertaintyMedium6/10
communicationHigh8/10

Context on the employer

Company snapshot

Company

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden

Team size

Growing team

Location

Columbia, Missouri, United States

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden's Bird Department is currently seeking a motivated team member to care for over 300 birds spanning approximately 70 species. Working under the guidance of the Curator of Birds, this position ensures the proper welfare of animals within their assigned area.

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Bird Keeper

Columbia, Missouri, United StatesFull Time